Asake Biography: From Lagos Dancer to Global Afrobeats Sensation

Ahmed Ololade, known professionally as Asake, born on January 13, 1995, in Lagos, Nigeria, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and performer celebrated for his unique fusion of Afrobeats, Amapiano, and Fuji influences. Nicknamed “Mr. Money,” Asake has risen to prominence with his infectious melodies and energetic stage presence, becoming a trailblazer in the global Afrobeats scene. As of 2025, he has released three studio albums, two EPs, and numerous hit singles, earning international acclaim.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Born to Yoruba Muslim parents, Asake grew up in Lagos, where his father was a businessman and his mother a teacher. His stage name, “Asake,” is a tribute to his mother’s first name, reflecting his deep respect for her. From a young age, Asake was immersed in the arts, excelling as a cultural dancer and performing at school events.

He also played drums in his high school band, showcasing his musical talent early on. After completing secondary education in Lagos, he pursued a bachelor’s degree in Theatre and Performing Arts at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, which honed his skills in performance and stagecraft.

Rise to Stardom

Asake’s professional music career began in 2015, initially as a backup singer for comedian Broda Shaggi’s band, contributing to the 2019 single “Star.” His breakthrough came in 2020 with the viral freestyle “Lady,” which gained traction after endorsements from influencers like Sydney Talker and Broda Shaggi. The follow-up single, “Mr. Money,” and its remix featuring Zlatan and Peruzzi, earned him the nickname “Mr. Money” and two 2020 City People Music Awards for Popular Song and Best Collabo.

In February 2022, Olamide signed Asake to YBNL Nation, and his debut EP, Ololade, featured the hit “Omo Ope” with Olamide and “Sungba,” later remixed with Burna Boy.

Artistic Evolution

Asake’s music blends Afrobeats, Amapiano, Fuji, hip-hop, and R&B, sung primarily in Yoruba with Lagos street slang, creating a style often described as Afrofusion or contemporary Fuji. His key releases include:

2022 – Ololade (EP): Featured “Omo Ope” and “Sungba,” marking his mainstream breakthrough.
2022 – Mr. Money with the Vibe: His debut album, released September 8, 2022, broke records for the biggest opening day for an African album on Apple Music and debuted at number 66 on the Billboard 200, the highest-charting Nigerian debut album at the time. Hits included “Terminator” and “Peace Be Unto You.”
2023 – Work of Art: His sophomore album, released June 16, 2023, also debuted at number 66 on the Billboard 200 and was the most-streamed Nigerian album of 2023 on TurnTable charts. It earned a BRIT silver certification in the UK.
2024 – Lungu Boy: His third album, released August 2024, became the longest-running number-one album in Nigerian chart history.

In February 2025, Asake parted ways with YBNL Nation, launching his independent label, Giran Republic, with the single “Why Love,” signaling a new chapter in his career.

Discography

Below is a table summarizing Asake’s studio albums and EPs:

Title	Release Date	Type	Notable Tracks
Ololade	February 2022	EP	“Omo Ope,” “Sungba”
Mr. Money with the Vibe	September 8, 2022	Album	“Terminator,” “Peace Be Unto You,” “Sungba (Remix)”
Work of Art	June 16, 2023	Album	“Amapiano,” “2:30,” “Yoga”
Lungu Boy	August 2024	Album	Not specified

Additional singles include “Lady” (2020), “Mr. Money” (2020), and “Palazzo” (2022) with DJ Spinall.

Tours and Performances

Asake’s dynamic stage presence has made him a sought-after performer. Key tours and appearances include:

Mr. Money with the Vibe UK Tour (2022): Sold out three dates at the O2 Academy Brixton in London, though the final show was marred by a crowd crush that resulted in two fatalities.
Lungu Boy World Tour (2024): A global tour supporting his third album, including sold-out shows at Barclays Center in New York (September 2023) and the O2 Arena in London (August 2023), where he made a memorable helicopter entrance.
Television Appearances: Performed on Good Morning America (April 2023) and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (February 2024).

Awards and Achievements

Asake’s accolades include:

2020 City People Music Awards: Won Best Collabo and Popular Song for “Mr. Money.”
2022 Audiomack Artiste of the Year: Recognized for Mr. Money with the Vibe amassing over 330 million streams.
2023 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards: Best African Artist of the Year.
2023 Grammy Nomination: Nominated for Best African Music Performance for “Amapiano,” though he lost to Tyla’s “Water.”
2023 MOBO Award and Two Headies Awards: Celebrated his rising influence.
First African artist to headline and sell out Barclays Center in New York (2023).
First African artist to chart on the US Billboard 200 with a debut album at number 66.

Personal Life and Philanthropy

Asake keeps his personal life private, with no public information about relationships or siblings. He is single as of 2023 and focuses on his music, often staying solitary to fuel his creativity. Raised in a Muslim household, he occasionally references both Islamic and Christian spirituality in his work, reflecting a fascination with soulful, spiritual sounds inspired by Fuji pioneers like Ayinde Barrister and church music. His net worth is estimated at $33,000–$500,000, earned through music royalties, tours, and endorsements, including being the first brand ambassador for Pari Match in Nigeria. In 2022, he purchased a house in Lekki, Lagos, marking a milestone from “hustling for free bed space to investing in real estate.”

While specific philanthropic efforts are not widely documented, Asake’s music often celebrates his Yoruba roots and Lagos street culture, uplifting his community through representation. His sold-out performances and global tours have brought Nigerian music to new audiences, fostering cultural pride.

Asake’s Influence on Popular Culture

Asake’s blend of Yoruba lyrics, Amapiano grooves, and Fuji storytelling has redefined Afrobeats, earning him a dedicated fanbase. His music videos, like “Sungba,” showcase vibrant Lagos aesthetics, influencing street fashion and dance trends. With over 865,000 Instagram followers (@asakemusic) and 6.5 million monthly Spotify listeners, he engages fans with music updates and witty banter. His global appeal is evident in sold-out shows across Nigeria, the UK, and the US, cementing his status as a cultural ambassador.

Asake’s Impact on the Music Industry

Asake’s debut album set a new standard for African music on global charts, with Mr. Money with the Vibe achieving the largest opening day on Apple Music for an African album. His rapid rise, from viral freestyles to headlining the O2 Arena in two years, has inspired emerging artists and highlighted the commercial potential of Amapiano-infused Afrobeats. His departure from YBNL to form Giran Republic in 2025 underscores his entrepreneurial spirit, encouraging artist independence.

Asake’s Style and Fashion Influence

Asake’s fashion merges streetwear with high-end flair, often featuring dreadlocks tucked under dad hats, bold jewelry, and vibrant prints reflecting Yoruba culture. His iconic O2 Arena helicopter entrance and tattooed stage name across his neck symbolize his bold persona. His style influences Nigerian youth fashion, blending urban and traditional elements, seen in his performances and music videos.

Asake’s Legacy: A Trailblazer in Afrobeats

Asake’s meteoric rise, marked by record-breaking albums and sold-out global tours, positions him as one of Africa’s most influential artists. His fusion of genres and Yoruba lyricism has expanded Afrobeats’ global reach, earning him a Grammy nomination and a place in music history. From a Lagos dancer to a global star, Asake’s journey reflects resilience and creativity, ensuring his lasting impact.

Asake’s Social Media and Online Presence

Asake engages fans through social media, sharing music and glimpses of his vibrant personality. Follow him on:

Platform	Handle/URL
Instagram	@asakemusic
Twitter	@asakemusik
TikTok	@asakemusic
Spotify	Asake

Conclusion

Asake’s journey from a Lagos high school dancer to a global Afrobeats sensation is a story of talent, perseverance, and innovation. With chart-topping albums, a unique musical style, and a growing list of accolades, he continues to push the boundaries of African music. Asake’s influence as a performer and cultural icon will shape the industry for years to come.