Olamide Says Wizkid Started Music Before Him

Nigerian rapper and YBNL boss Olamide has explained that Afrobeats superstar Wizkid actually began his music journey before him. He said this during a new interview with streamer Azeeez, noting that Wizkid had already been releasing songs one or two years before he entered the industry. His comment was meant to correct the long-standing debate about when both artists started their careers.

Many fans often assume that Olamide and Wizkid started their careers at the same time because they both became popular around 2010. Wizkid gained attention with his hit song “Holla at Your Boy” released in January 2010, while Olamide broke out later that year with his single “Eni Duro.” Their rise happened so closely that people naturally grouped them.

This connection became stronger when both of them were nominated for the Next Rated category at the 2011 Headies Awards. Wizkid eventually won the award that year, which made people think their music journeys began at the same period. Olamide said the nomination might have contributed to the confusion many fans still have today.

During the interview, Olamide explained that their timelines were never the same. According to him, Wizkid had already been active in the industry before he arrived. He said, “Wizkid and I didn’t start doing music at the same time. He started a year or two before me; he was already putting out music before I came.” He added that the clarification was not to compare achievements but simply to correct the narrative.

Music records also support Olamide’s claim. Wizkid, who is now 35 years old, appeared on M.I Abaga’s song “Fast Money/Fast Cars” in 2008, long before his mainstream breakthrough. This early collaboration showed that he was already working in the industry before gaining nationwide fame. Many fans were unaware of these early years.

Wizkid’s early exposure helped him rise quickly in Afrobeats, making him one of the leading global voices in the genre. Olamide, on the other hand, built a strong presence in rap and street-pop, becoming a powerful influence in Nigerian music with his consistent releases. Both artists have built different but highly respected careers.

Olamide stressed that he respects Wizkid’s achievements and that his comment was simply to set the record straight. He said the aim was to end the arguments among fans who often compare their journeys. According to him, there is no need for competition, as both musicians have contributed greatly to the industry in their own unique ways.

His clarification has now provided a clearer understanding of their music history, helping fans know who truly started first. The interview has also renewed appreciation for the growth and long-standing impact of both Wizkid and Olamide in shaping modern Nigerian music.