Afrobeats star Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, better known as Wizkid, has declared himself the first young Nigerian artist to achieve stardom. He credited his parents for giving him the freedom to pursue his dreams, even though they initially doubted his chances in the music industry.
“I was the first young artist to ever blow up on the [Nigerian music] scene. So my parents didn’t believe it was possible,” Wizkid said, according to Uplift X.
He added, “Of course, when parents see their child making a major career decision they’re uncertain about, especially in Africa—where my mom is Christian and my dad is Muslim, yet they never argued about religion or our aspirations—my dad would always say, ‘Do whatever you want. If you want to be a Muslim or a Christian, you’re free to choose.’”
Wizkid expressed his deep love for his parents, noting that their support and love have shaped who he is today.
He also announced that he will release a new album titled ‘Morayo’, in memory of his late mother who passed away on August 18, 2023, in London. The album is named after his mother’s middle name.
