Olamide’s Legacy: Top 5 Artists He Propelled to Stardom
Olamide “Baddo” Adedeji, the visionary founder of YBNL Nation, has earned a reputation as one of Nigeria’s true music maestros—not only for his chart-topping hits but also for uplifting emerging talent. Below are five standout artists he helped transform into household names 👑 Eyes Of Lagos reports,
1. Adekunle Gold
The soulful crooner found his big break after signing with YBNL in 2015. Olamide’s investment didn’t stop at record deals; he took Adekunle Gold to London, accelerating his international exposure and helping launch hits like “Sade” and “Orente” .
2. Fireboy DML
Signed in 2019, Fireboy quickly rose under Baddo’s mentorship. During a creative rut, Olamide provided guidance that reignited his spark. His YBNL debut became a smash, ushering in international acclaim and collaborations with the likes of Ed Sheeran .
3. Asake
Upon joining YBNL, Asake’s life changed dramatically—he even moved into a new house within months. Their partnership on “Omo Ope” went viral, cementing his status as a rising star .
4. Lil Kesh
Brought into the mainstream by YBNL in 2014, Lil Kesh’s “Shoki” became a cultural phenomenon. Olamide backed him through features and promotion, helping him launch his own label, YAGI .
5. Zlatan Ibile
Though never officially signed, Zlatan’s breakout hit “My Body” featured Olamide—an unspoken endorsement that shifted his career into high gear. Olamide even quietly accompanied him to record the track, showcasing his behind-the-scenes support
More Stars He’s Nurtured 📈
Olamide’s Igbo-Rap fusion with Phyno, the introspective Temmie Ovwasa, melodic Lyta, and street-pop sensation Portable all benefited from his mentorship and YBNL platform
Why Olamide Matters Beyond Music
YBNL Nation isn’t just a record label; it’s a creative incubator. As Olamide once explained, his surplus earnings motivated him to uplift others . He invests in artists holistically—from studio time to brand-building—creating sustainable careers over fleeting fame.
In doing so, he’s helped position Afrobeat as a global genre, building an ecosystem where emerging stars can thrive. His approach fosters collaboration, credibility, and international appeal
Final Note
Olamide’s impact transcends hit songs—he’s shaped careers, launched brands, and opened doors. His role as a mentor and philanthropist has indelibly influenced the Nigerian music landscape, ensuring that when he rises, so does the whole culture.