Popular Nigerian singer Ahmed Ololade, widely known as Asake, has opened up about his recent decision to relocate to Los Angeles in the United States. The 30-year-old music star clarified that the move was primarily motivated by the demands of his flourishing music career.
Career Growth, Not Escape
In a recent interview with Office Magazine, Asake addressed his relocation, which was published earlier this week. He emphasized that moving abroad has not altered his core identity or his connection to Nigeria. The 'Lonely at the Top' crooner stated that his move to Los Angeles was not an attempt to escape his home country but a strategic step to gain wider international exposure and connect with new people in the global music industry.
"To be honest, it's still the same thing. Humans are the same. People are trying to make it in Nigeria. People are trying to make it in America. People are rich in Nigeria. People are rich in America. People buy new houses every day in Nigeria. People buy new homes in America every day," Asake explained during the conversation.
Staying Grounded in a New Environment
Asake further dismissed the notion that Los Angeles offered a fundamentally different creative landscape, highlighting that talent is universal. He noted, "There are so many talents in LA, there are so many talents in Nigeria. I think it's the same thing; there's nothing different for me. The only thing I can say is I get to meet new people and have more exposure, like from what I've been used to."
Addressing potential concerns about losing touch with his roots, the 'Mr Money with the Vibe' hitmaker was firm. He insisted that his values and Nigerian identity remain firmly intact. He attributed his ability to stay grounded to his preference for solitude, which helps him maintain focus and authenticity even in a new setting.
From Dance Floors to Chart-Topping Hits
The interview also provided a glimpse into Asake's artistic origins. Contrary to what many might assume, music was not his first career choice. He revealed a early inclination towards acting, stage performance, and dance, initially aspiring to be a dancer or choreographer.
"My mom loves so much good music. My dad is deep into music. So unknowingly, I have it in me already. That was not my priority when I was young," he shared. His path shifted during his university days around 2013, when he found himself in a circle of friends who were actively making music. "Then you end up making a song. Then the whole school went crazy on the song," he added, marking the unofficial start of his musical journey.
Despite his meteoric rise to fame and international relocation, Asake stressed that his fundamental performance style and approach to his craft have not changed.
With this move, Asake joins a growing list of Nigerian music stars who have established bases in the United States in recent years. This group includes heavyweights like Wizkid, Tems, Adekunle Gold, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, and Banky W. His relocation follows shortly after fellow Mavin Records artist, 23-year-old Ayra Starr (Sarah Aderibigbe), announced her own move to New York, citing a lifelong dream to live in the city.
