Nigerian Star Asake Makes Billboard History With Unprecedented Chart Dominance
Nigerian music sensation Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in the global music industry. The fast-rising artist has become the first musician to dominate the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart with multiple entries, setting a new record that solidifies his position among Africa's top musical exports.
Record-Breaking Chart Performance
Asake now holds an impressive 60 entries on the prestigious Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart, a feat never before accomplished by any artist. His latest collaboration with fellow Nigerian superstar Wizkid, titled Jogodo, has been instrumental in this achievement, peaking at number 4 on the chart this week. This remarkable performance demonstrates the growing global influence of Nigerian music and the exceptional talent emerging from the country's vibrant entertainment scene.
The announcement of this historic milestone was made by the popular music platform Chart Data on Elon Musk's X platform, triggering widespread celebrations among fans across various social media networks. Supporters of the former YBNL Nation artist expressed their pride and excitement, highlighting how Asake's success represents a significant moment for Nigerian music on the international stage.
Competitive Afrobeats Landscape
While Asake celebrates his record-breaking achievement, South African singer Tyla continues her impressive reign on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart. Her hit song Channel maintains the number 1 position, demonstrating the competitive nature of the global Afrobeats scene. Tyla, who was named the top Afrobeats artist for 2025, previously set her own record with the song Water, which spent an extraordinary 55 consecutive weeks at the top of the chart.
In related Billboard news, Nigerian superstar Burna Boy reached another significant milestone this week. His feature on Gunna's track WGFT climbed to number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 following a remix with American singer Chris Brown. Burna Boy also made history as the first African artist to debut a song on the Hot 100 chart in five consecutive years, spanning from 2021 to 2025.
Collaboration Amid Controversy
Asake's record-breaking achievement comes against a backdrop of industry drama and personal challenges. The singer recently found himself at the center of controversy when Afrobeat musician Seun Kuti publicly advised him to be careful of Wizkid. This warning emerged during a heated online exchange between Seun Kuti and Grammy-winning superstar Wizkid that dominated Nigerian social media discussions.
Despite the tense advisory, Asake demonstrated his commitment to artistic collaboration by doubling down on his partnership with Wizkid. The feud escalated when Seun Kuti described Wizkid's fan base as the most ignorant, suggesting they lacked appreciation for his father Fela Kuti's legacy. Wizkid responded sharply, calling Seun a fool at forty and other derogatory terms, further intensifying the conflict.
New Music Release
Undeterred by the surrounding controversy, Asake proceeded with his musical plans, announcing on January 23, 2026, the release of his joint project with Wizkid titled Real EP Vol. 1. The announcement was made through a collaborative Instagram post featuring both artists, accompanied by a sleek promotional video. The caption, Real EP Vol. 1 ti jade bayi (meaning Real EP Vol. 1 is out now), marked the official launch of their partnership.
This release comes just one week after the duo dropped Jogodo, the lead single from the EP, on January 16, 2026. The timing of these releases, combined with Asake's chart success, demonstrates strategic career management and artistic confidence.
Personal Reconciliation
In addition to his professional achievements, Asake has experienced positive developments in his personal life. The singer recently reunited with his father, Fatai Odunsi, following their public fallout. Photographs showing the duo in a calm setting suggest their relationship has evolved from conflict to understanding.
This reconciliation is particularly significant given that earlier in 2025, Asake faced intense public scrutiny when his father accused him of abandonment while battling a stroke. The resolution of this family matter provides important context for understanding the artist's current success and emotional state.
Asake's historic achievement on the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs chart represents more than just personal success—it signals the growing global recognition of Nigerian musical talent. With 60 entries and counting, the Mr Money crooner has established himself as a dominant force in the international Afrobeats movement, paving the way for future Nigerian artists to achieve similar recognition on global platforms.
