Olamide Named Among Billboard’s 2025 Global Power Players: What This Means for Nigerian Music
Billboard, the international music authority, has named Nigerian rap legend and YBNL Nation boss, Olamide Gbenga Adedeji, among its 2025 Global Power Players. This prestigious honor celebrates music executives making waves globally, and Olamide’s impact as a leader, visionary, and talent developer earned him this well-deserved spotlight.
YBNL Nation’s Influence in 2024
Under Olamide’s guidance, YBNL Nation solidified its position as a powerhouse in the African music scene. The label is home to Asake and Fireboy DML, two of Nigeria’s brightest stars who dominated the charts in 2024.
Asake’s third studio album, Lungu Boy, was named Nigeria’s biggest album of the year by TurnTable Charts. His single “MMS” also received a Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance at the 67th Grammy Awards.
Fireboy’s fourth album, Adedamola, drew acclaim as one of 2024’s most outstanding projects, further showing YBNL’s commitment to quality and consistency.
Beyond chart-topping releases, Asake made history by selling out London’s iconic O2 Arena multiple times—joining Davido and Wizkid as the only Nigerian acts to achieve this.
“Olamide isn’t just making music—he’s building an empire and opening global doors for the next generation of Nigerian stars.” — A&R Executive, Chika Nwosu.
Olamide’s Legacy of Empowerment
Olamide’s honour is not just about fame—it’s about his role in elevating Nigerian talent to the global stage. Through YBNL, he has created a platform for emerging artists to thrive, and his strategic vision has consistently produced music that resonates worldwide.
“This recognition is a win for Nigerian music. Olamide has shown that local talent, when nurtured and properly managed, can stand on any global stage,” — Music analyst, Tolu Michaels.
Olamide’s Billboard recognition serves as an inspiration to Nigerian artists and label owners. It proves that building strong homegrown talent and maintaining originality can attract international respect. For young creatives, Olamide’s journey is a reminder that with vision, consistency, and passion, success is possible—both at home and abroad.
