Wizkid Net Worth 2024: A Glance at the Starboy’s Wealth
Wizkid, the Nigerian music sensation and global icon, has been making waves in the entertainment industry since his debut.
As of 2024, his net worth continues to soar, solidifying his status as one of the wealthiest musicians on the continent.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Wizkid, born Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, rose to prominence with his debut album “Superstar” in 2011, which featured hit singles like “Holla at Your Boy” and “Don’t Dull.” Since then, he has consistently delivered chart-topping music, collaborating with international artists and accumulating an impressive fan base worldwide.
Diverse Income Streams
Wizkid’s financial success extends beyond music sales and concerts.
He has diversified his income through brand endorsements, fashion ventures, and investments.
Notable partnerships with leading brands have contributed significantly to his overall net worth.
Lucrative Endorsements
The Starboy’s association with major brands, both local and international, has been a key driver of his financial success.
Endorsement deals with companies in the beverage, telecommunications, and fashion industries have added substantial value to Wizkid’s portfolio.
Global Recognition and Tours
Wizkid’s international acclaim has opened doors to lucrative opportunities, including global tours and performances.
His ability to captivate audiences worldwide has not only elevated his status as a musician but has also translated into substantial earnings from sold-out concerts.
Investments and Entrepreneurship
Beyond the music and entertainment realm, Wizkid has ventured into entrepreneurship and investments.
Reports suggest that he has made strategic investments in real estate and other business ventures, further contributing to the growth of his net worth.
Net Worth Estimate for 2024
While specific financial details are often closely guarded, estimations place Wizkid’s net worth in 2024 in the range of $21 million.
It’s essential to note that net worth figures can fluctuate based on various factors, including new business ventures, album releases, and market dynamics.
In conclusion, Wizkid’s journey from a local sensation to a global icon has not only been marked by musical achievements but also by strategic financial moves.
While specific financial details are often closely guarded, estimations place Wizkid’s net worth in 2024 in the range of $21 million. As he continues to dominate the music scene and expand his business ventures, the Starboy’s net worth is expected to remain an impressive testament to his multifaceted success.
Wizkid Biography
Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, professionally known as Wizkid, born on July 16, 1990, is a highly acclaimed Nigerian singer and songwriter.
A leading figure in the contemporary Afrobeats music landscape, he stands out as one of the most commercially successful and influential artists within the genre.
His musical journey began at the young age of 11 when he started recording music. Collaborating with the group Glorious Five (5), formed with friends from his church, he released a collaborative album.
In 2009, Wizkid signed a record deal with Banky W’s Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E). His breakthrough came with the release of “Holla at Your Boy,” the lead single from his debut studio album, Superstar (2011), which also featured hits like “Tease Me/Bad Guys” and “Don’t Dull.”
In September 2014, he unveiled his self-titled second studio album, Ayo, supported by six singles, including the popular “Jaiye Jaiye.” Wizkid’s international recognition soared in 2016 after collaborating with Drake on the chart-topping single “One Dance,” a historic moment that earned him a place in the Guinness World Records as the first afrobeats artist to achieve such a feat.
In March 2017, Wizkid signed a multi-album deal with RCA Records and released his third studio album, Sounds from the Other Side. The album featured five singles, including the collaboration with Drake titled “Come Closer.”
Notable features followed, including the 2018 hit “Checklist” with Normani and Calvin Harris, reaching number-one on the Billboard World Digital Song Sales chart.
In the subsequent year, he collaborated with Beyoncé on the Grammy-winning single “Brown Skin Girl,” part of her project The Lion King: The Gift.
October 2020 marked the release of his fourth album, Made in Lagos, which achieved both commercial success and critical acclaim, reaching number-one on the Billboard World Album Chart.
The album includes the breakthrough single “Essence” featuring Tems, the first Nigerian song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100. A remix by Justin Bieber further propelled it into the top ten.
Building on this success, Wizkid released his fifth album, More Love, Less Ego, on November 11, 2022, further solidifying his position as a prominent force in the global music industry.
Life and music career
Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, popularly known as Wizkid, was born on July 16, 1990, in Surulere, Lagos. Raised in an interfaith household with twelve female siblings, Wizkid experienced the cultural blend of his mother’s Pentecostal Christian background and his father’s practice of Islam.
He attended Ijebu Ode Grammar School and developed a passion for music, influenced by icons like King Sunny Ade, Fela Kuti, and Bob Marley.
Wizkid’s musical journey began at the age of 11 when he formed a group called the Glorious Five with church friends, leading to the release of a collaborative album. Initially known as Lil Prinz, he later changed his stage name in 2006 after meeting record producer OJB Jezreel, who temporarily halted his recording activities. During this period, he observed recording sessions with 2 Face Idibia and Sound Sultan.
In 2009, Wizkid signed a record deal with Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E) and co-wrote “Omoge You Too Much” for Banky W.’s album. Mentored by Naeto C, Ikechukwu, and M.I, Wizkid’s career trajectory accelerated.
Despite dropping out of Lagos State University (LASU) in mid-2009 and later attending Lead City University, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his craft.
2010–2011: Superstar
Wizkid embarked on recording his debut studio album, “Superstar,” in 2009. The lead single, “Holla at Your Boy,” released on January 2, 2010, earned him the Next Rated award at The Headies 2011.
The album, released on June 12, 2011, featured hits like “Tease Me/Bad Guys” and “Don’t Dull.” It garnered the Best Album of the Year at the 2012 Nigeria Entertainment Awards.
2012–2014: E.M.E tour, Ayo, and Other Recordings
Wizkid’s international presence grew as he toured with E.M.E in London in 2012 and collaborated on the compilation album “Empire Mates State of Mind.” Between 2012 and 2014, he recorded his second studio album, initially titled “Chosen” but later released as “Ayo” in September 2014. The album featured collaborations with Femi Kuti, Banky W., Seyi Shay, Phyno, Tyga, Akon, and Wale.
2015–2018: Sounds from the Other Side and International Success with “One Dance”
In January 2015, Wizkid released the music video for “Ojuelegba.” His international breakthrough came with Drake’s collaboration on “One Dance,” reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in May 2016.
He continued to feature on various singles, including “Expensive Shit” and “African Bad Gyal.” In March 2017, he signed with RCA Records and released “Sounds from the Other Side” in July 2017.
2019–present: “Brown Skin Girl,” Soundman Vol. 1, and Made in Lagos
Wizkid’s standout moment in 2019 was his feature on Beyoncé’s “Brown Skin Girl,” winning him a Grammy Award for Best Music Video. In December 2019, Starboy Entertainment released the EP “Soundman Vol. 1.” In 2020, Wizkid featured on multiple singles and released “Made in Lagos” in October, achieving global success. “Essence,” a single from the album, made history as the first Nigerian song to chart on the US Billboard Hot 100.
Wizkid’s accomplishments continued in 2021 with the release of a remix of “Essence” featuring Justin Bieber, reaching No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100. His album “Made in Lagos” received Grammy nominations, and he won the Soul Train Award for Best Collaboration. Celebrating the anniversary of “Made in Lagos,” he announced his fifth album, “More Love, Less Ego,” released on November 11, 2022.
In September 2022, Wizkid headlined the Rolling Loud Toronto hip-hop festival, making history as the first African artist to achieve this feat. His impact on the global music stage remains unmatched, solidifying his position as a trailblazer in the industry.
Endorsements
In 2012, Wizkid inked a lucrative one-year endorsement deal with Pepsi, a collaboration that reportedly swelled his coffers by an impressive US$350,000.
The deal not only added a significant financial boost but also took him to Beirut, Lebanon, where he joined forces with Tiwa Savage for a captivating Pepsi commercial shoot, showcasing their star power on a global scale.
By 28 May 2013, Premium Times broke the news that Wizkid had secured another notable endorsement deal, this time with MTN Nigeria. This one-year partnership marked a strategic move in the artist’s brand associations.
Simultaneously, Wizkid’s alliance with Pepsi saw an extension, with the soft drink giant renewing their contract for an additional two years, solidifying the synergy between the Starboy and the renowned beverage brand.
In November 2013, Wizkid expanded his endorsement portfolio by signing a deal with Guinness. This collaboration was in preparation for the Guinness World of More concert, a spectacular event that took place at the Eko Convention Centre of the Eko Hotel and Suites on Victoria Island, Lagos. The endorsement showcased Wizkid’s ability to align his brand with major players in diverse industries.
In June 2015, a significant shift in telecommunications partnerships occurred. Pulse Nigeria reported that Wizkid decided to part ways with MTN, a move that stirred the industry.
Shortly after, news surfaced that he had secured a substantial ₦128 million deal with GLO, further emphasizing his marketability and influence within the African entertainment sphere.
Wizkid’s impact transcended music and endorsements; in the realm of social media, he achieved a groundbreaking milestone.
Recognized as the first African artist to amass one million followers on Twitter, Wizkid demonstrated not only his musical prowess but also his ability to connect with a massive global audience, setting benchmarks for artists across the continent.
Record label and contract
Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E)
In February 2013, a ripple of speculation surrounded Wizkid’s association with Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E) as he sent out subliminal messages and made adjustments to his Twitter account.
Alongside these online actions, Wizkid made a significant move in his personal life, relocating from the E.M.E mansion in Lagos to his own residence in the prestigious Lekki Phase 1 area. Despite the apparent shifts, Banky W, co-founder of E.M.E, reassured fans that all was well.
However, reports suggested that underlying issues within E.M.E surfaced as early as the E.M.E All Stars concert in 2012, with financial matters at the heart of the controversy.
On April 30, 2013, Nigerian Entertainment Today reported a reunion between Wizkid and E.M.E after rounds of contract negotiations. Wizkid’s departure from E.M.E coincided with the release of his second studio album and the culmination of his five-year contract.
In a video interview with Capital Xtra in October 2019, Wizkid shared that his departure from E.M.E was without financial gain.
Starboy Entertainment
Taking charge of his destiny, Wizkid founded Starboy Entertainment in March 2013. Speaking to Yvonne Ekwere of Silverbird Television, he outlined plans to sign new talents to the label.
The first signings included Maleek Berry and Legendury Beatz, with Berry assuming the role of an in-house producer. In August 2013, Wizkid expanded Starboy’s roster by signing L.A.X as the label’s first recording artist.
DJ Tunez joined as the in-house disc jockey in February 2016, while Efya, R2Bees, and Mr Eazi became Starboy signees in May 2016. Other notable artists such as Terri, Legendury Beatz, R2Bees, and Efya later joined the label.
Currently, Starboy Entertainment is under the management of Jada P and has earned nominations for the best record label award from the City People Entertainment Awards and The Beatz Awards.
Sony Music/RCA
In 2017, Wizkid made headlines when Billboard reported his signing of a multi-album worldwide record deal with RCA Records, a subsidiary of Sony Music. This move marked a pivotal moment in Wizkid’s international career, opening up new avenues for his music on a global scale.
Personal Life
Wizkid’s personal life is marked by family and significant milestones. The internationally acclaimed artist is a father to four children, each born to different mothers in the years 2011, 2016, 2017, and 2022.
Despite the complexities that may arise from such a situation, Wizkid has shown a commitment to his role as a father.
Tragically, on August 18, 2023, Wizkid faced a profound loss with the passing of his mother in London.
The loss of a parent is a deeply personal and emotional experience, and it undoubtedly marked a poignant chapter in Wizkid’s life.
As he navigates the intricate balance of a thriving career and the responsibilities of fatherhood, the artist continues to draw strength from his personal journey, showcasing resilience in both his professional and personal spheres.
Fatherhood Controversy
In August 2011, Nigerian Entertainment Today reported a significant development in Wizkid’s personal life – the birth of his first child at the age of 21.
After an extensive investigation, the publication concluded that the mother of the child was Sola Ogudugu, an undergraduate student at the time.
The news sparked curiosity and speculation, with friends and associates of Wizkid refraining from confirming the information until DNA results were available.
Wizkid, during several interviews, addressed the burgeoning controversy. In a conversation with a Nigerian Entertainment Today editor, he vehemently denied being a father.
Subsequently, in another interview conducted in Ogudu-GRA, Lagos, he expressed his reluctance to find himself in such a situation.
The saga continued into December 2012 when, during an interview with Nonye Ben-Nwankwo of The Punch, Wizkid once again refuted the baby scandal.
However, in a surprising turn of events in October 2013, he shared a photo on his Instagram account featuring himself and his 2-year-old son, Boluwatife Balogun. This photo ultimately confirmed the 2011 report published by Nigerian Entertainment Today, bringing clarity to the controversy.
Feuds
Wizkid found himself entangled in Twitter feuds with several artists, including notable names like his former boss Banky W, former label mate Skales, Davido, Dammy Krane, Saeon, Samklef, Reekado Banks, blogger Linda Ikeji, and comedian “Mr. Jollof.” These public disputes, played out on a widely followed platform, drew attention and speculation from fans and the media alike, adding an element of drama to the artist’s public persona.
Fashion Style
In a February 2015 interview with Alex Frank of Vogue magazine, Wizkid offered insights into his fashion style.
Describing it as a blend of streetwear and traditional Nigerian clothing, he mentioned Pharrell Williams as one of his fashion icons.
Additionally, he hinted at plans to launch his own clothing line following the release of “Sounds from the Other Side,” showcasing his interest in extending his influence beyond music into the world of fashion.
Legacy
Wizkid stands as a living legend and trailblazer in the realm of Afrobeats, leaving an indelible mark both within and beyond the music industry.
NotJustOk aptly described him as a pivotal figure in the “afrobeats to the world” movement, acknowledging the swift race in which Wizkid, along with other star players, propelled the genre to international heights, breaking down barriers and leveling the playing field.
Chris Deville of Stereogum highlighted WizKid’s conquest of the U.S. pop landscape, a terrain he played a crucial role in shaping for Afrobeats.
Daniel Anazia of The Guardian emphasized the transformative impact of Wizkid’s albums on Afrobeats, elevating not only himself but also the entire Nigerian music industry to global recognition.
The release of “Essence” served as a pivotal moment, introducing the vibrant sounds of Afrobeats to a wider audience and opening doors for other African artists to achieve international success.
Quartz acknowledged Wizkid’s unique ability to blend various styles, making him lucrative for both local and international record labels.
Billboard recognized Wizkid as the first African artist to make a major pop breakthrough in the United States, paralleling the Western-based music industry’s entry into the continent.
Eromo Egbejule of The Guardian portrayed Wizkid as the poster boy for a new generation of artists shaping their unique sounds from the continent, influencing genre obfuscation alongside other notable artists.
Poppie Platt of The Daily Telegraph lauded Wizkid’s unprecedented mainstream success, marking a new age of music influenced by Africa’s vivid sights and sounds. Nicole Vassell of The Independent crowned Wizkid as the “king of Afrobeats,” attributing to him the mainstream appeal of the genre.
Wizkid’s global impact extended to the New York Times, where Joe Coscarelli noted his role as a lasting international pop cultural ambassador, and NPR hailed him as “one of the biggest pop stars of his generation.” NME’s Kyann Sian Williams acknowledged Wizkid’s dominance in the global music scene, pioneering the Afrobeats revolution and earning the title of a musical maverick.
Variety’s Emanuel Okusanya identified Wizkid as a trailblazer of Afrobeats, possessing the makings of a rock star with big hits, crazed fans, and undeniable star power.
Rolling Stone’s Will Dukes credited Wizkid as the king of unignorable dinner party music and the leader of Afrobeats.
Wizkid’s influence reached GQ, where Pierre A. M’Pelé declared him the undisputed king of Afropop, and Vogue’s André-Naquian Wheeler and Chioma Nnadi emphasized his role in popularizing Afrobeats worldwide.
The New Yorker’s Sheldon Pearce recognized Wizkid’s revolutionary blend of traditional rhythms with R&B textures, leading a musical evolution in African music.
Wizkid’s impact even transcended music into the realm of cultural recognition. Former Governor Mark Dayton declared October 16th as ‘Wizkid day’ in Minnesota, recognizing his inspiring achievements and cultural influence. Ohio State University utilized his career, artistry, and personal life as a case study.
In summary, Wizkid’s journey epitomizes the global rise of Afrobeats, making him an iconic figure whose influence extends far beyond music, shaping the narrative of African culture and sound on the world stage.
Wizkid: Awards and Achievements
Wizkid’s remarkable contributions to the Nigerian music industry have resulted in numerous prestigious awards and accolades, solidifying his status as one of Africa’s most decorated artists.
Grammy Award:
Wizkid clinched his first-ever Grammy Award for Best Music Video as a lead artist on Beyoncé’s “Brown Skin Girl.” This historic win marked a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
American Music Awards (AMAs):
Wizkid holds the title of the most awarded African artist at the American Music Awards, boasting two accolades for his exceptional contributions to the music industry.
MTV Video Music Award (VMA):
In the realm of MTV, Wizkid has secured one Video Music Award, adding to his impressive collection of honors.
Soul Train Awards:
Wizkid’s impact resonates at the Soul Train Awards, where he stands as the most awarded African artist, with three coveted awards.
Billboard Awards:
The Billboard Awards recognize Wizkid’s achievements with three prestigious honors, further highlighting his global influence.
iHeartRadio Music Awards:
Wizkid’s musical prowess has earned him two accolades at the iHeartRadio Music Awards, solidifying his standing as an international sensation.
BET Awards:
With four BET Awards to his name, Wizkid shares the record for the most awards in this category, underscoring his consistent excellence.
MOBO Awards:
Wizkid’s impact on the MOBO Awards stage is unparalleled, with an impressive six wins, making him one of the most celebrated artists in MOBO history.
ASCAP Plaque:
Acknowledging his songwriting prowess, Wizkid received an ASCAP plaque for his contributions to Drake’s hit song “One Dance.”
Guinness World Records:
Wizkid’s collaboration on “One Dance” achieved two Guinness World Records, being the first song to reach a billion streams on Spotify and holding the record for the most streamed song on Spotify at that time.
New African Magazine Recognition:
In 2019, New African magazine honored Wizkid by including him in the list of the Top 100 most influential Africans, recognizing his impact beyond the music realm.
The Headies Awards:
Wizkid holds the distinction of being the most awarded artist in The Headies award history, a testament to his enduring excellence.
64th Annual Grammy Awards:
At the 64th Annual Grammy Awards, Wizkid received nominations in the Best Global Music Album and Best Global Music Performance categories for “Made in Lagos Deluxe Edition” and “Essence,” respectively.
Apple Music Awards:
In November 2021, Wizkid was crowned Artist of the Year (Africa) at the Apple Music Awards, solidifying his ongoing influence and success.
Wizkid’s incredible journey is not only marked by musical brilliance but also by a trail of accolades that underscore his impact on the global music landscape.
