On the 22nd of April 2010, Nigerians woke up to the news that one of it’s fiercest rappers at the time Dagrin had passed away in a fatal accident. Dagrin who was on a steady rise at the time is credited for taking Yoruba rap music to the mainstream. He succeeded where his predecessors like Lord of Ajasa, Reminisce, had struggled to make an impact.
After the death of Dagrin, the indigenous rap industry really needed a savior. It did not take long before Olamide stepped up to that responsibility, and ever since he held on to the crown he has not let go. He took indigenous rap a whole new level, going on to compete with the more mainstream Afro dancehall artists like Wizkid and Davido. In what was regarded as a healthy competition, Olamide was frequently being featured on everything that came out during the time. Never have we seen anyone take rap to this level. Following the successes of most of his song — something most people would describe as “Back to Back” hits, Olamide became one of the most respected brands in the music business and in a few years created a platform for other artists to excel. Olamide built YBNL from the ground up and gave acts like lil Kesh, Chinko Ekun, Adekunle Gold, and more recently Fireboy DML the opportunity to reach the limelight.
He is also behind brands like OLIC that sell out thousands of concert seats every year and is rumored to be close Allies to the Lagos State Government and partners with them on several events and shows. His career has not been without controversy, In 2015, he went toe to toe with Don Jazzy, the owner of Mavin records — one of the most powerful labels in Africa. A fight broke out over the headies Awards that went to Reekado Banks. During the ceremony, Olamide came on stage and expressed disappointment over the choice of Reekado Banks as the winner, stating that his artist lil Kesh was a more suitable candidate to win the brand new car that is typically awarded to the winner of the Next rated category at the awards.
DJ Baddo releases the best of Olamide Mix and it puts together of all the Major hits that have made Olamide who he is today.
Olamide has stayed relevant and at the top since he made an appearance almost 10 years ago