WIZHID
GQ South Africa|August - September 2023
HE'S ONE OF AFRICA'S MOST INFLUENTIAL GLOBAL ARTISTS, AND DESPITE BEING IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY FOR OVER 20 YEARS, HE SAYS THERE'S ONLY MORE TO COME
Shannon Manuel
WIZHID

Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer, Wizkid, born Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, has a decades-spanning career, marked by numerous achievements and groundbreaking contributions to the music industry.

The Grammy award-winning artist has embarked on several successful international tours, selling out venues around the world. His energetic performances and charismatic stage presence have earned him a dedicated global fan base. Notably, he has performed at renowned events such as the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, Essence Festival, and Afro Nation, further solidifying his status as a sought-after live performer.

Taking a quick look back in his career timeline, he gained prominence with his debut single, 'Holla at Your Boy', in 2010, which became an instant hit in Nigeria and beyond. His debut album, Superstar (2011), solidified his position as a rising star in African music, spawning several chart-topping singles. The album's success marked the beginning of Wizkid's journey towards becoming a global icon.

'It's not easy for me to properly articulate my evolution as an artist over the years. However, the evolution is in the music. My bodies of work reflect my growth and evolution. The sound is elevated, along with even my image. I invest time and effort into every element of my craft, especially those two.

I'm always onto new music and am currently crafting a new album. It's always an intense but fun process, because I take my craft seriously and love music? His last album, More Love, less Ego, released last year receiving rave reviews. The 13-track playlist features prominent guest collaborators such as Ayra Starr, Skillibeng, Shenseea, Skepta, Naira Marley, and Don Toliver.

This story is from the August - September 2023 edition of GQ South Africa.

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This story is from the August - September 2023 edition of GQ South Africa.

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