Asake's Unwavering Loyalty to Olamide: A Testament to Gratitude in Nigerian Music
In a candid and revealing appearance on the Korty EO YouTube podcast, acclaimed Nigerian artist Asake opened up about his tumultuous journey to fame, emphasizing his profound and unshakable respect for fellow musician and mentor Olamide. The conversation, which delved into Asake's pre-YBNL struggles, highlighted how Olamide's intervention in 2022 catalyzed one of the most dramatic career turnarounds in recent Nigerian music history.
The Humbling Years Before the Breakthrough
Asake recounted the challenging period around 2020, a year he described as "very serious" and deeply humbling. Despite the global pandemic causing widespread business collapses, the music industry paradoxically flourished, yet Asake faced personal setbacks. His 2020 hit 'Mr Money' had briefly thrust him into the spotlight, but subsequent releases failed to replicate that success, leaving him in a state of uncertainty and frustration.
"Life really humbled me. Imagine God gives you a taste of something and then removes it. That's what happened in 2020," Asake reflected during the podcast. Signed to the now-defunct TFT Records since 2018, with singles like 'Kanipe' in 2019, he endured nearly two years of trials and errors, navigating an industry that had momentarily acknowledged him before moving on.
Olamide's Pivotal Role in Asake's Meteoric Rise
The turning point came in February 2022 when Olamide, the renowned rapper and founder of YBNL Records, signed Asake to his label. That same month, Asake released his debut EP, Ololade, featuring the breakout tracks 'Omo Ope' with Olamide and 'Sungba'. This marked the beginning of an extraordinary ascent that saw Asake become one of Nigeria's most-streamed and celebrated artists between 2022 and 2024, accumulating over 20 awards and earning Grammy nominations.
Asake's gratitude for this transformation was palpable in his words. "Till the end of time, Baddo will always be Baddo. The same respect I had for Baddo yesterday is the same respect I have for him today. Even if I become the president of America or the president of Zimbabwe, Baddo will always be Baddo," he declared, using Olamide's nickname to underscore his unwavering loyalty.
A Consistent Narrative of Respect and Recognition
For those familiar with Asake's career, this declaration is no surprise. He has consistently and publicly credited Olamide as a pivotal figure in his success, with his loyalty appearing genuine rather than performative. From a young artist who experienced a fleeting moment of fame to becoming one of Nigeria's biggest musical exports, Asake has not forgotten the support that sustained him during his lowest points.
This story resonates deeply within the Nigerian entertainment landscape, where mentorship and loyalty often play crucial roles in artistic development. Asake's journey from obscurity to stardom, anchored by Olamide's guidance, serves as an inspiring example of how talent, when paired with opportunity and steadfast support, can achieve remarkable heights.
