Wizkid (musician)

This article is about the Nigerian recording artist. For other uses, see Wizkid.

Wizkid

Wizkid performing at the Desire album launch concert in 2013
Background information
Birth name Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun
Also known as Lil Prinz
Born (1990-07-16) 16 July 1990[1]
Surulere, Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria
Genres
Occupation(s)
  • Recording artist
  • songwriter
  • performer
Years active 2001–present[2]
Labels

Current


  • Starboy Entertainment
  • Disturbing London[3]

Former


Associated acts

Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun (born 16 July 1990), better known by his stage name Wizkid (sometimes stylised as WizKid),[3] is a Nigerian recording artist, songwriter and performer. He started his musical career at age 11, releasing a collaborative album with Glorious Five entitled Lil Prinz (2001). In 2009, he signed a record deal with Banky W.'s imprint Empire Mates Entertainment. He rose to prominence in 2010 with the release of the song "Holla at Your Boy" from his debut studio album, Superstar (2011). "Tease Me/Bad Guys", "Don't Dull", Gidi Girl, "Love My Baby", "Pakurumo" and "Oluwa Lo Ni" were also released as singles from the Superstar album. Wizkid's self-titled second studio album, Ayo (2014), was preceded by the singles "Jaiye Jaiye", "On Top Your Matter", "One Question", "Joy", "Bombay" and "Show You the Money".

In addition to his solo work, Wizkid has collaborated with several artists and was featured on the hits "Girl" (with Bracket), "Fine Lady" (with Lynxxx), "Sexy Mama" (with Iyanya), "Slow Down" (with R2Bees), "The Matter" (with Maleek Berry), "Pull Over" (with KCee) and "Bad Girl" (with Jesse Jagz). He was ranked 5th on Forbes and Channel O's 2013 list of the Top 10 Richest/Bankable African Artists.[4][5] In February 2014, Wizkid became the first ever Nigerian musician to have over 1 million followers on Twitter.[6][7] in May 2016 He was Nominated for BET Award.[8]

Life and music career

1990–2010: Early life and Lil Prinz

Wizkid was born on 16 July 1990 in Surulere, a residential and commercial area of Lagos.[9][10] In a 2012 interview with Tim Westwood, he said that his father has three wives.[11] Wizkid started singing at age 11, releasing a 7-track album entitled Lil Prinz (2001).[12] During an interview with Adesope of Factory 78 TV, Wizkid described his life in a nutshell. He said he formed a group called the Glorious Five with a couple of his church friends. The group dropped an album prior to dismembering. Wizkid later met OJB Jezreel, a record producer who prevented him from recording for a year. While visiting Jezreel's studio frequently, he watched 2 Face Idibia record Grass 2 Grace and Sound Sultan record Jagbajantis. A year later, Wizkid started recording. His first song featured OJB Jezreel.[13] The song was met with great reception throughout Surulere. Wizkid cited Naeto C as one of the people who mentored and coached him while he was 15 years old. Wizkid also told Factory 78 TV that his parents weren't receptive of his music from the onset. In order to gain his father's trust, he had to work hard and spent lots of time in the studio.[14] Wizkid has a great relationship with Banky W. He told Factory 78 TV that he and Banky W became friends prior to starting a professional relationship. He co-wrote Banky W's "Omoge You Too Much", a song off the The W Experience album.[14] In 2006, he collaborated with Naeto C and Ikechukwu. In 2009, Wizkid became a household name within Nigeria's musical landscape; he was featured on M.I's "Fast Money, Fast Cars" and Kel's "Turn by Turn".

2010–11: Superstar

In 2010, Wizkid began recording his debut studio album Superstar (2011). On 2 January 2010, he released "Holla at Your Boy" (sometimes stylized as Holla @ Ur Boi) as the album's lead single.[15] The song earned Wizkid a Next Rated award at The Headies 2011, and was nominated for Best Pop Single at The Headies 2011.[16] The music video for "Holla at Your Boy" was nominated for Most Gifted Newcomer Video at the 2011 Channel O Music Video Awards.[17] The music video was also nominated for Best Afro Pop Video at the 2011 Nigeria Music Video Awards (NMVA).[18] On 2 April 2010, Wizkid released "Tease Me/Bad Guys" as the album's second single; it was initially released as a freestyle.[19] "Don't Dull", the album's third single, was released on 6 December 2010.[20]

The album, recorded in English and Yoruba, was released on 12 June 2011 by Empire Mates Entertainment. It incorporates elements of R&B, dancehall, and reggae. Wizkid collaborated with a wide range of music producers, including E-Kelly, Jay Sleek, Shizzi, DJ Klem, Sunny Nweke, Q-Beats and Samklef. The album features guest appearances from Banky W., Skales, D'Prince and Wande Coal. It was initially scheduled for release on 14 February 2011, but was later pushed back. On 12 June 2011, Wizkid hosted an album launch party at the Expo Hall of the Eko Hotel and Suites. The album's launch party featured performances from Banky W, Skales, 2face Idibia, Samklef, Wande Coal, D'Prince, Olamide, eLDee, Jesse Jagz, Ice Prince, Lynxxx and Seyi Shay.[21] Superstar garnered Best Album of the Year at the 2012 Nigeria Entertainment Awards, and was nominated for Album of the Year at The Headies 2012.[22]

2012–2014: Ayo and other recordings

Main article: Ayo (Wizkid album)

They should expect everything magical. We have put in a lot of work and we are just hoping that everyone likes the album. I have been in the studio for weeks and even months now. I can't wait for the album to be released. I hope everybody will like the album. I have just put in a lot of hard work.

-Wizkid on what fans can expect from Ayo[23]

"Jaiye Jaiye" (2013)
A 15-second sample of "Jaiye Jaiye". The song is a fusion of traditional and modern Afrobeat sounds

Problems playing this file? See media help.

Work on Wizkid's second studio album, Ayo, began in 2012 and continued through 2014. It features guest appearances from Femi Kuti, Banky W., Seyi Shay, Phyno, Tyga, Akon and Wale. The album's production was handled by Sarz, Shizzi, Uhuru, Del B, Dr Frabz, Maleek Berry, Legendury Beatz and Spellz. It was initially titled Chosen. According to MTV Base, the album suffered from a pushed back release date.[24] It was earlier reported that the album would feature Don Jazzy, Efya and Olamide.[25] On 6 September 2014, Wizkid revealed the album's cover art and track listing.

Prior to announcing plans for a second studio album, Wizkid had plans of releasing a mixtape in April 2013.[26] In an interview with Ok!Nigeria TV at Disturbing Headquarters in London, he said that the mixtape would be released in April. He also said that the mixtape would feature Wale and Tinie Tempah.[27] Wizkid later announced that he would be releasing his second studio album on 12 June 2013.[28] In an interview with HipTV, Banky W revealed the album's title and commented on the delayed album. In addition, he gave an estimated time-frame for the album's release.[29]

On 2 May 2013, Wizkid and Starboy Entertainment released the album's lead single "Jaiye Jaiye" featuring Femi Kuti. Wizkid told Showtime Celebrity that he collaborated with Femi Kuti in order to prevent people from depicting him as an artist whose lyrics revolve around girls, cars and materialistic things.[23] "On Top Your Matter" was released as the album's second single on 26 October 2013; it was produced by Del B.[30] The music video for the single, released on 13 February 2014, was shot and directed in South Africa by Sesan.[31] In July 2014, Wizkid visited The Beat 99.9 FM studio in Lagos and told Toolz that he collaborated with Barbadian singer Rihanna.[32][33]

2015–present: Sounds From the Other Side EP

On 5 January 2015, Wizkid released the music video for "Ojuelegba", a song that highlights the struggles he endured in the early years of his recording career.[34] The official remix to the song features vocals from Drake and Skepta; it premiered on OVO Sound Radio in July 2015.[35] Wizkid first announced that he was working on a new album during his visit to London in October 2014. He revealed his collaborative single with Chris Brown titled "African Bad Girl", and said that it would be the lead single off the upcoming album.[36] In April 2015, both Wizkid and Chris Brown performed the song together at the latter's concert in Durban, South Africa.[37] In May 2015, Wizkid released "Expensive Shit", an Afrobeat song built on light guitars, saxophone lines and acoustic percussion; the song was reported as being a likely inclusion on the album.[38] In July 2015, Wizkid announced via Twitter that Angélique Kidjo will be featured on the album.[39] In September 2015, Wizkid revealed that he was dropping his EP and postponing the release of his third studio album. He made the announcement via Instagram shortly after the conclusion of 2Face Idibia's "Fortified" tribute concert. Wizkid was quoted as saying, "I celebrated the legend 2face Idibia last night! Epic! It made me realize how much work I need to do."[40] According to an interview published by The Fader magazine, Wizkid's upcoming EP would be titled Sounds From the Other Side. Although much information were not revealed, The Fader did report that Wizkid is squeezing in edits to the EP.[41] On April 5, 2016, Wizkid became Nigeria's first artist to emerge on Billboard’s Twitter Last 24 hours chart following his guest feature on Drake's "One Dance" single, which charted at number 21.[42][43] On May 12, 2016, the song reached number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.[44] On 5 June 2016, Wizkid released the promotional single "Like This". The song made its premiere on Drake's OVO Sound Radio in June 2016. It was produced by Amsterdam-based Ghanaian producer DJ Henry X.[45] Sheldon Pearce of Pitchfork Media described the song as a "frolicking, summery jam that revels in all the work he [Wizkid]’s put in."[46]

World tours and notable performances

After releasing their compilation album Empire Mates State of Mind, EME acts toured the United States. The tour kicked off on 4 July 2012 and ended on 2 September 2012. EME acts performed in several different cities, including Houston, Dallas, Toronto, Vancouver, New York City, Providence, Calgary, Atlanta, Washington DC, and Chicago.[47][48] Wizkid toured London in 2012 and performed at the HMV Apollo on 4 June 2012.[49] On 12 November 2012, he performed at the BBC Radio 1Xtra Live 02 Academy in Brixton alongside Trey Songz, Tulisa, Kendrick Lamar and Angel.[50] On 17 October 2013, Wizkid performed at the 2013 edition of Felabration, a yearly concert dedicated to the late Fela Kuti.[51] On 2 November 2013, he performed at the Guinness Colorful World of More concert alongside D'banj, Tiwa Savage, P-Square, Davido, Ice Prince, Burna Boy, Olamide and Phyno, among others. The concert took place at the Eko Convention Centre of the Eko Hotels and Suites.[52] On 23 November 2013, Wizkid performed at the Guinness Big Eruption Concert.[53] Wizkid was invited as a special guest for some shows in Tinie Tempah's tour of the UK in 2014.[54] Wizkid joined Chris Brown on his "One Hell of a Nite" world tour in May 2016.[55][56]

Endorsements

In 2012, Wizkid signed a one-year endorsement deal with Pepsi reportedly worth 350,000 U.S dollars.[57] He travelled to Beirut, Lebanon with Tiwa Savage for a Pepsi commercial shoot.[58][59] On 28 May 2013, Premium Times reported that Wizkid signed a one-year deal with MTN Nigeria. Moreover, the news source reported that Wizzy's Pepsi contract was renewed for another two years.[60][61] On 23 October 2013, BellaNaija reported that Wizkid signed an endorsement deal with Guinness for the "Guinness World of More" concert. The concert was held at the Eko Convention Centre of the Eko Hotel and Suites in Victoria Island, Lagos on 3 November 2013.[62][63] On 18 June 2015, Pulse reported that Wizkid ditched MTN and signed a ₦128 million naira deal with GLO.[64]

The Next Rated prize

Wizkid won the award for Next Rated at The Headies 2011. In addition to winning the award, he was awarded a 2012 Hyundai Sonata courtesy of The Headies and its affiliates. The car's presentation ceremony took place at the Silverbird Galleria in Victoria Island, Lagos. Guy Murray Bruce, Bola Salako and Ayo Animashaun were present during the ceremony. Wizkid joined the list of past winners, including Aṣa, Overdose, Omawumi, Wande Coal and Skuki.[65][66]

Fashion style

In a February 2015 interview with Alex Frank of Vogue magazine, Wizkid stated that he wears a mixture of street-wear and traditional Nigerian clothes. He cited Pharrell Williams as one of his fashion style icons. Moreover, he revealed plans to establish a clothing line following the release of his upcoming debut EP.[67]

Starboy Entertainment

On 5 March 2013, Charles Mgbolu (a writer for Vanguard) reported that Wizkid established his label imprint Starboy Entertainment. During an interview with Silverbird Television, Wizkid told Yvonne Vixen Ekwere that he planned on signing new acts to the label.[68] Wizkid told Showtime Celebrity that he established his own record label to give up-and-coming artists a platform to showcase their talent.[23] On 17 April 2013, Wizkid signed Maleek Berry to Starboy Entertainment. Wizkid and Maleek Berry's work credits include "Lagos to Soweto" and "The Matter", among others.[69] On 29 April 2013, Premium Times reported that Wizkid signed producers Uzezi Oniko and Okiemute Oniko, popularly known as Legendury Beatz, to his imprint. He made the announcement via Twitter.[70] On 9 May 2013, he unveiled photos of himself with the aforementioned acts signed.[71] On 20 August 2013, Wizkid signed recording artist L.A.X to the label. He made the announcement moments after debuting the music video for "Caro", the label's first official single.[72][73] On May 7, 2016, Wizkid announced the signings of Efya, R2Bees, and Mr Eazi to Starboy Entertainment. He made the announcement shortly after his performance at the 17th edition of the Ghana Music Awards.[74]

EME's breakup, reunion and departure

After Wizkid tweeted a subliminal message and tweaked his Twitter account, reports about his departure from E.M.E went viral.[75][76] Wizkid moved out of the E.M.E mansion in Lagos and acquired his own home in the Lekki Phase 1 area.[76] Prior to Wizkid's subliminal tweets, Banky W pacified fans by assuring them that nothing was amiss. Furthermore, it was reported that troubles within E.M.E started as early as the 2012 E.M.E all stars concert.[76] It was also reported that money was at the centre of the controversy.[76] On 20 February 2013, Information Nigeria reported that Wizkid was getting 25 percent from every performance, while Banky W and Segun Demuren were getting 50 percent. Osagie, Wizkid's former manager, was getting the remaining 25 percent. After firing Osagie and hiring Godwin Tom (whom he parted ways with in April 2014),[77] Wizkid wanted a 50–50 share with Banky W. The source revealed that Banky W refused to accept Wizkid's proposal. Moreover, it was reported that Banky W wanted to find a manager for Wizkid who would accept 25 percent. It was also reported that things started getting sour as a result of both parties disagreement. Information Nigeria went on to report that Wizkid was doing three shows weekly and bringing in close to N24 million monthly.[78][79][80][81] On 30 April 2013, Nigerian Entertainment Today reported that Wizkid and E.M.E reunited after contract negotiations. The news source also reported that Wizkid performed alongside label mates Shaydee and DJ Xclusive in The Republic of Benin.[82] In August 2014, Wizkid told Olisa Adibua that he will depart the label following the release of his second studio album, Ayo.[83]

A victim of impersonation

On 19 June 2013, Wizkid and his management were invited by men from the Nigerian Police Force for questioning. Duping charges were leveled against them by a group of UNILAG students. The students claimed that Wizkid agreed to perform at the UNILAG Sports Centre on 21 May 2013 for a total sum of N500,000.[84] They also claimed that he didn't show up for the show and didn't return their money.[84] After conducting a thorough investigation, Police determined that Unilag students were bamboozled by con artists pretending to be affiliates of E.M.E. In the aforementioned interview with Showtime Celebrity, Wizkid commented on the events that transpired after the accusations. He told the media that the police were investigating the case. The masterminds behind the impersonation were later detained by law enforcement agents in Lagos. In addition to duping Unilag students, the culprits set up fake email and social media accounts.[85][86] Wizkid also elaborated on how one can go about booking him.[23]

Personal life

Car accident and Porsche acquisition

On 15 June 2013, Wizkid was involved in a non-life-threatening car accident along the Lekki-Epe Expressway in Lekki, Lagos. According to an article posted on Silverbird Television, Wizkid was hospitalised for a minor concussion resulting from the wreck.[87] According to eyewitness reports compiled by MTV Base, Wizkid's Porsche Panamera was spotted speeding down the road; the car's front tires blew out and resulted in the driver of the vehicle losing control and crashing into a road barrier.[88] Eyewitness reports also added that the car's airbag suspension system deployed on impact, shielding Wizkid and the driver instantaneously.[89] At the time of the incident, Wizkid and other passengers in the car were returning from the Soundcity Nokia LumiaBeat Party. The accident allegedly occurred around 3:30am in front of the GET Arena.[90] As a result of the wreck, the car was badly damaged. Pictures of the damaged vehicle surfaced on Instagram and Facebook. Vanguard reported that Wizkid acquired a Porsche Cayenne two weeks after the accident. He posted pictures of his new acquisition onto his Instagram page and tagged the pictures with the caption "#Blessed".[91][92][93]

Fatherhood controversy

On 22 August 2011, Nigerian Entertainment Today reported that Wizkid fathered his first child at age 21. After a thorough investigation, the news source concluded that Wizkid impregnated an undergraduate student named Oluwanishola Ogudugu.[94] Moreover, the news source added that multiple sources familiar with the "baby mama" and her family told them that they knew about the relationship between both parties. When the story broke out, close friends and associates of Wizkid didn't confirm the story due to DNA results that were pending at the time.[94] Wizkid broke his silence on the story in several interviews. In an interview with a Nigerian Entertainment Today editor, Wizkid denied having a child.[94] In another interview held at Ogudu-GRA in Lagos, Wizkid said he really doesn't want to find himself in that peculiar situation. A week before denying the aforementioned allegations, Wizkid tweeted from his official Twitter handle.[94] In December 2012, he denied the baby scandal during an interview with Nonye Ben-Nwankwo of The Punch. In October 2013, Wizkid uploaded a picture of he and his 2-year-old son, Boluwatife Balogun, onto his Instagram account. The photo confirmed the alleged rumours and allegations that were harboured for 2 years. The photo also vindicated Nigerian Entertainment Today, the news source that first covered the story.[95]

Feuds

Wizkid became engulfed in rifts with several artists including his erstwhile boss Banky W[96] and former label mate Skales.[97] Other artists include Davido,[97] Dammy Krane,[98] Saeon,[97] Tonto Dikeh,[97] Samklef[97] and blogger Linda Ikeji.[99]

Awards and nominations

Wizkid's contribution to the Nigerian Music Industry has earned him several achievements, including a BET Award, a MOBO Award, five The Headies Awards, two Channel O Music Video Awards, six Nigeria Entertainment Awards, two Ghana Music Awards, two Dynamix All Youth Awards, two City People Entertainment Awards, and a Future Award. He has received three nominations at the MTV Europe Music Awards. He has also been nominated four times at the World Music Awards.

Discography

Main article: Wizkid discography

References

  1. "Wizkid pops N300m champagne at 23rd birthday bash?". Punch Nigeria. Archived from the original on 29 October 2013. Retrieved 9 October 2013.
  2. "Wizkid Biography". MTV Base. Archived from the original on 13 November 2013. Retrieved 12 November 2013.
  3. 1 2 "Artists – WizKid". Disturbing London. Archived from the original on 13 December 2013. Retrieved 12 December 2013.
  4. "Wizkid richer than 2Face, Banky W – Forbes". The City Reporters. 2 September 2013. Retrieved 15 December 2013.
  5. "Sarkodie Makes Forbes Top 10 Richest Africa Artistes". The Chronicle. 3 September 2013. Retrieved 15 December 2013.
  6. "Wizkid- First Nigerian Artiste To Hit A Million Twitter Followers". Modern Ghana. 20 February 2014. Retrieved 5 March 2014.
  7. "Guess Which Nigerian Artiste Becomes The First To Gain 1 Million Followers on Twitter". Naij News. 20 February 2014. Retrieved 5 March 2014.
  8. "Nigeria's Yemi Alade and Wizkid are set to battle it out to win the highly coveted award for "Best International Act: Africa"". Olagist. 21 May 2016. Retrieved 30 October 2016.
  9. "From the Magazine: The matter of Wizkid". ynaija.com. Retrieved 6 September 2014.
  10. "Skales Graduates from University. Will Wizkid go Back?". hiphopworldmagazine.com. Archived from the original on 10 September 2013. Retrieved 6 September 2014.
  11. "Westwood – Wizkid remix with Akon *EXCLUSIVE* in UK". YouTube. 10 August 2012. Retrieved 20 January 2014.
  12. "Wizkid - Gidi Girl". Olamild Ent. 19 June 2010. Retrieved 7 May 2016.
  13. Seyi (11 July 2012). "Wizkid – Biography". Nigerian Films. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  14. 1 2 "FACTORY78 EXCLUSIVE – Wizkid interview.". YouTube. Retrieved 27 October 2013.
  15. "MUSIC VIDEO: "Holla At Your Boy" by WIZKID". Wizkid's "Holla at Your Boy" video. Golden Icons. Retrieved 6 March 2014.
  16. "THE HEADIES (HIP HOP WORLD AWARDS 2011) WINNERS LIST". Hip Hop World. Archived from the original on 29 October 2013. Retrieved 3 November 2013.
  17. "All the MVA nominees". Channel O. 18 August 2011. Retrieved 6 March 2014.
  18. "Nigerian Music Video Awards [NMVA] 2011 Nominees… Darey & Jodie Top The List of Nominees". Jaguda. Retrieved 24 October 2013.
  19. "WizKid – Tease Me/ Bad Guys [Freestyle]". Jaguda. Retrieved 26 October 2013.
  20. "New Music: Wizkid – Don't Dull". Bellanaija. Retrieved 26 October 2013.
  21. "Pictures From The Wizkid 'Superstar' Album Launch". Nigerian Entertainment Today. 13 June 2011. Retrieved 13 December 2013.
  22. "Hip Hop World Awards, HIP HOP WORLD AWARDS 2012, Official Winners list". HipHop World Magazine. Archived from the original on 29 October 2013. Retrieved 23 November 2013.
  23. 1 2 3 4 "UNILAG saga: My story – Wizkid". Vanguard. 6 July 2013. Retrieved 12 December 2013.
  24. "Wizkid reveals album details.". MTV Base. Archived from the original on 12 November 2013. Retrieved 11 September 2013.
  25. Morgan, Femi (29 June 2013). "Wizkid reveals album tracklist". DStv. Archived from the original on 6 March 2014. Retrieved 6 March 2014.
  26. "INTERVIEW: WIZKID". MTV. 2 February 2014. Retrieved 14 February 2014.
  27. "WizKid's Interview with OK! Nigeria TV 2013". YouTube. Retrieved 27 October 2013.
  28. "Wizkid to drop New Album on June 12". Premium Times. 9 April 2013. Retrieved 13 December 2013.
  29. "Banky W reveals details on Wizkids Album". YouTube. Retrieved 27 October 2013.
  30. "New Music: Wizkid – On Top Your Matter". Bellanaija. 26 October 2013. Retrieved 14 February 2014.
  31. "Watch Wizkid's Joburg Love Video For 'On Top Your Matter'". OkayAfrica. 14 February 2014. Retrieved 14 February 2014.
  32. Opeoluwani, Akintayo (17 July 2014). "Wizkid Confirms Collabo With Rihanna!". Daily Times of Nigeria. Archived from the original on 8 August 2014. Retrieved 1 August 2014.
  33. Drake, David (1 August 2014). "Say Yes: How a Michelle, Beyoncé and Kelly Gospel Record Points to Pop Music's Nigerian Future". thefader.com. The Fader. Retrieved 1 August 2014.
  34. Afolabi, Joda (7 January 2015). "Wizkid and Clarence Peters soar high in 'Ojuelegba'..". Nigerian Entertainment Today. Retrieved 5 March 2015.
  35. Mistry, Anupa (28 July 2015). "Wizkid "Ojuelegba Remix" [ft. Drake & Skepta]". Pitchfork. Retrieved 20 November 2015.
  36. "Wizkid Reveals His New Album Includes Chris Brown Collaboration Called 'African Bad Girl'". Capital Xtra. 5 October 2014. Retrieved 20 November 2015.
  37. Showemimo, Dayo (5 April 2015). "Videos: Watch Wizkid and Chris Brown perform together in South Africa". Nigeria Entertainment Today. Retrieved 20 November 2015.
  38. "Wizkid Shares New Single 'Expensive Shit'". Okay Africa. 13 May 2015. Retrieved 20 November 2015.
  39. Showemimo, Dayo (11 June 2015). "Angelique Kidjo, Chris Brown on Wizkid's next album". Nigerian Entertainment Today. Retrieved 20 November 2015.
  40. Ajose, Kehinde (26 September 2015). "How 2face made Wizkid postpone his album release". Vanguard. Retrieved 20 November 2015.
  41. Okumu, Phiona (19 November 2015). "Wizkid Is Getting The Global Embrace He Deserves". The Fader. Retrieved 20 November 2015.
  42. "Wizkid first Nigerian pop star on Billboard chart". New Telegraph Nigerian Newspaper. Retrieved 16 April 2016.
  43. "Drake Reunites Jay Z & Kanye West on 'Pop Style,' Taps Wizkid & Kyla for 'One Dance'". Billboard. Retrieved 16 April 2016.
  44. Trust, Gary. "Drake Scores First Hot 100 No. 1 as Lead Artist With 'One Dance'". Billboard. Retrieved 13 May 2016.
  45. "Wizkid Continues His Hot Streak With a New Banger Alongside DJ Henry X". Okay Africa. 6 June 2016. Retrieved 27 June 2016.
  46. Pearce, Sheldon (15 June 2016). "DJ Henry XWizkid "Like This" [ft. Wizkid]". Pitchfork Media. Retrieved 27 June 2016.
  47. "Empire Mates Entertainment take on America.". MTV Base. 10 July 2012. Retrieved 5 March 2014.
  48. Dayo, Alayande. "Banky W, Wizkid, Skales, Others Kick Off EME US Tour". The Nigerian Voice. Retrieved 5 March 2014.
  49. Onos, O. "BN Bytes: The EME – Wizkid UK Takeover | Watch Day 2, 3 & 4 of Wizkid's UK Tour Diary". Bellanaija. Retrieved 30 June 2013.
  50. "BBC Radio 1xtra Live". BCC.
  51. "Wizkid throws 100k into crowd, causes stampede at Felabration (Watch Video)". Nigerian Entertainment Today. Retrieved 12 November 2013.
  52. "P-Square, Davido, others ignite Guinness World of More concert". Vanguard Nigeria. Retrieved 12 November 2013.
  53. "Big Sean & Akon Live in Ghana Concert By Guinness – November 23rd". Ghana News Report. Retrieved 12 November 2013.
  54. "Wizkid to join Tinie Tempah". MTV Base. Viacom International Media Networks. 24 March 2014. Archived from the original on 14 May 2014. Retrieved 27 March 2014.
  55. "Wizkid joins Chris Brown on his "One Hell of a Nite" World Tour".
  56. "Chris Brown Celebrates Wizkid With An Artwork". 7 June 2016.
  57. "Nigeria: Tiwa Savage and Wizkid Unveiled As Pepsi Ambassadors". allAfrica. 14 July 2012. Retrieved 11 December 2013.
  58. "A good year for Wizkid!". MTV Base. 27 June 2012. Archived from the original on 14 December 2013. Retrieved 13 December 2013.
  59. "Pop Star Wizkid Signs Multi Million Naira Endorsement Deal With Pepsi". Gidiurban. 20 May 2012. Retrieved 28 Feb 2016.
  60. "Wizkid gets MTN endorsement deal". Premium Times Nigeria. 28 May 2013. Retrieved 13 December 2013.
  61. "Wizkid is the newest ambassador of MTN". Capital 98.4 FM. 31 May 2013. Retrieved 11 December 2013.
  62. "Updated – Guinness Nigeria Signs New Deals With Wizkid, Davido, Olamide & More For Their New Campaign". Bellanaija. 23 October 2013. Retrieved 13 December 2013.
  63. "P-Square, Davido, others ignite Guinness World of More concert". Vanguard. 1 November 2013. Retrieved 13 December 2013.
  64. "Pulse Exclusive Wizkid drops MTN for GLO, to earn N120m". Pulse Nigeria. Ayomide O. Tayo. Retrieved 18 June 2015.
  65. "THE HEADIES PRESENT NEXT RATED CAR TO WIZKID". Hiphopworldmagazine. 13 July 2013. Archived from the original on 16 December 2013. Retrieved 16 December 2013.
  66. "PHOTOS: The Headies presents Wizkid with 'Next Rated' car prize". YNaija. 20 July 2012. Retrieved 16 December 2013.
  67. Alex Frank (19 February 2016). "Meet Wizkid, Nigeria's Best-Dressed Pop Star". Vogue. Retrieved 21 May 2016.
  68. "Wizkid floats new label, 'Starboy music'". Vanguard Nigeria. Retrieved 13 December 2013.
  69. Abimboye, Micheal (18 April 2013). "Maleek Berry joins Wizkid's Star Boy Entertainment". Premium Times. Retrieved 6 March 2014.
  70. "Wizkid adds Legendury Beatz to Star Boy Entertainment". Premium Times Nigeria. 29 April 2013. Retrieved 13 December 2013.
  71. "Don't Mess With Star Boy! Wizkid Unveils New Promo Shots". Bellanaija. 9 May 2013. Retrieved 14 December 2013.
  72. "Wizkid signs first artiste to StarBoy label". Nigerian Entertainment Today. 20 August 2013. Retrieved 13 December 2013.
  73. "Wizkid signs L.A.X to Star Boy Entertainment". Premium Times Nigeria. 22 August 2013. Retrieved 13 December 2013.
  74. "Wizkid signs top Ghanaian singers to StarBoy Worldwide". Premium Times. 8 May 2016. Retrieved 8 May 2016.
  75. Odukoya, Lanre (9 February 2013). "The Kid Takes a Walk". thisdaylive.com. This Day. Archived from the original on 14 July 2014. Retrieved 2 July 2014.
  76. 1 2 3 4 "The war within E.M.E… as Wizkid shocks fans". Vanguard news. 6 February 2013. Retrieved 15 December 2013.
  77. Abimboye, Micheal (17 April 2014). "Wizkid, Waje part ways with manager, Godwin Tom". Premium Times. Retrieved 18 April 2014.
  78. "REVEALED: The Real Reasons Why Wizkid Left EME To Float StarBoy Records". Information Nigeria. Retrieved 13 November 2013.
  79. "Wizkid, E.M.E records part ways?". PunchNigeria. Archived from the original on 13 November 2013. Retrieved 13 November 2013.
  80. "Nigeria: Why Wizkid Abandoned Banky W's EME". AllAfrica. Retrieved 13 November 2013.
  81. ""EME is my family": The new Y! Magazine speaks exclusively to Wizkid on his struggles, fame & the future". YNaija. Retrieved 13 November 2013.
  82. "Wizkid, EME back in business". Vanguard. 30 April 2013. Retrieved 15 December 2013.
  83. Showemimo, Dayo (1 September 2014). "Wizkid confirms he's FINALLY set to leave E.M.E". Nigerian Entertainment Today. Retrieved 9 January 2015.
  84. 1 2 "Between Wizkid and UNILAG students". Punch Nigeria Limited. 21 June 2013. Archived from the original on 22 June 2013. Retrieved 12 December 2013.
  85. "Wizkid blames fraudsters for controversial performance contract". Punch Nigeria. 5 July 2013. Archived from the original on 8 December 2013. Retrieved 12 December 2013.
  86. "Fraud: Police arrest Wizkid, Banky W impersonator". YNaija. 3 July 2013. Retrieved 12 December 2013.
  87. "Wizkid Escapes Death in Auto Crash". Silverbird Television. Retrieved 12 December 2013.
  88. "Details from Wizkid car crash revealed.". MTV Base. 20 June 2013. Retrieved 12 December 2013.
  89. "Wizkid survives car crash". Vanguard Media Limited Nigeria. 16 June 2013. Retrieved 12 December 2013.
  90. "WizKid Survives Serious Car Accident! Wreck His New Porsche". Jaguda. 15 June 2013. Retrieved 12 December 2013.
  91. "Wizkid replaces crashed Porsche with new one". Vanguard Media Limited. 27 June 2013. Retrieved 12 December 2013.
  92. "Has Star Boy Wizkid Replaced his Wrecked Porsche?". Bellanaija. 28 June 2013. Retrieved 12 December 2013.
  93. "Nigeria: Wizkid Replaces Crashed Porsche With New One". allAfrica. 27 June 2013. Retrieved 12 December 2013.
  94. 1 2 3 4 "Exclusive: Wizkid Impregnates Undergraduate, Gets Baby Girl". Nigerian Entertainment Today. 22 August 2011. Retrieved 12 December 2013.
  95. "EXCLUSIVE: Inside the private world of Wizkid's son and baby mama + exclusive photos". Nigerian Entertainment Today. 23 October 2013. Retrieved 11 December 2013.
  96. Naij.com (2013-02-17). "Wizkid And Banky W In Intense Fight: "I Made You Who You Are Today" ▷ NAIJ.COM". Naij.com - Nigeria news. Retrieved 2016-05-13.
  97. 1 2 3 4 5 Ajose, Kehinde (6 March 2016). "Wizkid and his many Twitter battles". Vanguard. Retrieved 7 April 2016.
  98. "NET Exclusive: How Wizkid broke a bottle on Dammy Krane's head at Quilox night Club". Nigerian Entertainment Today. Adebayo Showemimo. 15 January 2016. Retrieved 7 April 2016.
  99. "Wizkid, Linda Ikeji in dirty social media war". The Punch. Ola Bamgbose. Retrieved 5 April 2016.
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Wizkid (musician).
Awards and achievements
Preceded by
Skuki (2010)
Next Rated Award
2011
Succeeded by
Davido (2012)
This article is issued from Wikipedia - version of the 11/12/2016. The text is available under the Creative Commons Attribution/Share Alike but additional terms may apply for the media files.