Do you want to know about Wizkid’s net worth, cars, love life, awards, and kids? You’re in the right place! Let’s dive into the life of this global music sensation.
Early Life
Born Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun on July 16, 1990, in Surulere, Lagos State, Nigeria, Wizkid grew up in a large family as the only son among 13 children. His father, Alhaji Muniru Olatunji Balogun, is a Muslim with three wives, while his mother, Dolapo Jane Balogun, is a Pentecostal Christian. Despite their differences in faith, the family maintained a balanced upbringing for their children.
Wizkid formed a music group called The Glorious Five with his church friends in his early teens. Though the group didn’t gain widespread fame, it marked the beginning of his musical journey. At the time, he went by the stage name Lil Prinz.
Education
Wizkid attended Ijebu Ode Grammar School before briefly enrolling at Lagos State University (LASU). He later transferred to Lead City University, but his passion for music ultimately led him to leave school in 2009 to focus entirely on his career.
Music Career
Wizkid’s career can be divided into several distinct phases:
Early Career (2009–2011)
In 2009, Wizkid signed with Empire Mates Entertainment (EME), a record label owned by Banky W. His breakthrough came with the release of “Holla At Your Boy” in 2010, the lead single from his debut album Superstar (2011). The album featured other hits like “Tease Me/Bad Guys” and “Don’t Dull” and earned him numerous accolades, including the Headies Next Rated Award in 2011.
Starboy Era (2013–Present)
After parting ways with EME in 2013, Wizkid launched his own label, Starboy Entertainment. His second studio album, Ayo (2014), featured hits like “Jaiye Jaiye” and “Show You The Money”, further solidifying his status in the Nigerian music scene.
His third album, Sounds From The Other Side (SFTOS), released in 2017, marked his entry into the global market, featuring collaborations with Drake, Chris Brown, and Ty Dolla Sign. The track “Come Closer” with Drake became a global hit.
In 2020, Wizkid released Made in Lagos, an album that broke records and received international acclaim. The single “Essence”, featuring Tems, became a cultural phenomenon and earned a Grammy nomination. His follow-up album, More Love, Less Ego, was released in 2022 to critical acclaim.
Personal Life
Wizkid is a proud father of three sons:
- Boluwatife Balogun (2011) with Sola Ogudugu
- Ayodeji Balogun (Blue Diamond) (2016) with Binta Diallo
- Zion Balogun (2017) with Jada Pollock, who is also his manager.
He was previously linked romantically to Tiwa Savage, sparking widespread speculation, especially after their collaboration on the song “Fever”.
Awards and Achievements
Wizkid has received numerous awards, including:
- Grammy Award for Best Music Video for his feature on Beyoncé’s “Brown Skin Girl” (2021)
- Multiple BET Awards, MOBO Awards, and MTV Awards
- Guinness World Record for his feature on Drake’s “One Dance”, which topped charts for 10 non-consecutive weeks in 2016.
He is also the first African artist to sell out the prestigious O2 Arena in London.
Net Worth
As of 2023, Wizkid’s net worth is estimated to be over $30 million, making him one of the richest artists in Africa. His wealth stems from music sales, international tours, endorsement deals with brands like Pepsi and Gucci, and his ventures in fashion.
Lifestyle and Assets
Wizkid has a penchant for luxury cars, including a Bentley Continental GT Speed, Porsche Panamera, and a Mercedes Benz G63 AMG. He owns two mansions: one in Lekki, Lagos, and another in Los Angeles, USA.
Discography
- Superstar (2011)
- Ayo (2014)
- Sounds From The Other Side (2017)
- Made in Lagos (2020)
- More Love, Less Ego (2022)
- Morayo (2024)
From his humble beginnings in Surulere to becoming a global icon, Wizkid has remained a trailblazer in the music industry. With his infectious sound, international appeal, and ever-growing influence, the Starboy continues to shine brightly on the world stage.
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