Zinoleesky Opens Up About Running Away From Home to Pursue Music
Afrobeats singer Zinoleesky has opened up about the challenges he faced on his journey to fame, revealing that he ran away from home to pursue a career in music. In an interview with SB Live, the artist, whose real name is Oniyide Azeez, said he had to do some “crazy” things to follow his passion.
Speaking candidly, Zinoleesky described how tough it was to get support from his family, especially his parents. According to him, most Nigerian parents discourage careers in the entertainment industry and would rather see their children take on professional courses or trades.
“Nigerian parents are always in denial whenever you want to do stuff like music. They want you to do a professional course or learn a trade. So, you just have to find a way. Me, I did some crazy stuff. I ran away from home to do music,” he shared.
Why did Zinoleesky say he ran away from home?
He explained that pursuing a music career required him to break away from the norm, especially in a society where music is often not seen as a real profession. Without his parents’ approval, he felt he had no choice but to leave home and chase his dream.
Zinoleesky began his musical journey as a rapper before switching to singing. His early freestyle videos started gaining attention online around 2017, eventually turning him into an internet sensation. Fans were impressed by his raw talent and unique sound.
There were even reports that he once turned down a record deal from Davido’s label, DMW. However, in December 2019, he signed with Naira Marley’s Marlian Music, officially launching his career in the mainstream scene.
His debut album Chrome Eccentric featured hit singles like Ma Pariwo and Kilofeshe, earning him widespread acclaim and establishing him as one of the most promising young voices in Nigerian Afrobeats.
Tips and recommendations:
- Aspiring artists should be ready to make sacrifices but should also prioritize safety and support.
- Parents are encouraged to be more open-minded and supportive of their children’s dreams.
- Zinoleesky’s story reminds young talents that success often starts with courage and persistence.