Nigerian singer, songwriter, and performer Adekunle Gold is marking a major milestone in his career, celebrating 10 years since the release of his breakout single “Sade” in December 2014. The track, a cover of One Direction’s “Story of My Life,” catapulted him into the mainstream and laid the foundation for a successful career in the Nigerian music industry.
In a recent interview, Adekunle Gold, often affectionately called “AG Baby,” reflected on his journey over the past decade, revealing pivotal moments and individuals who helped shape his career. One key figure in his rise to prominence was music producer and songwriter Pheelz, who played a crucial role in getting Adekunle Gold signed to Olamide’s YBNL label.
Before becoming one of Nigeria’s leading music stars, Adekunle Gold had a close connection with Olamide’s YBNL, but not as an artist. He worked behind the scenes as a graphics designer for the label, contributing to the cover art for releases by artists like Lil Kesh and Viktor. “I was responsible for some of the cover arts of their releases, and that gave me a strong connection to the label,” Adekunle Gold shared in the interview.
However, it was his musical talent that eventually caught the attention of YBNL. Adekunle Gold revealed that his breakthrough came when Pheelz, the renowned producer, heard “Sade” and saw its potential. “Pheelz heard ‘Sade’ and immediately took it to Olamide, telling him to consider signing me,” Adekunle Gold recalled. “The rest, as they say, is history.”
The decision to sign him was a turning point in Adekunle Gold’s career. Under the YBNL banner, he went on to release his critically acclaimed debut album “Gold,” which featured hit singles like “Orente” and “Pick Up.” The album was a commercial success, further solidifying his position in the music industry.
Reflecting on the success of “Gold,” Adekunle Gold emphasized how it marked the beginning of his journey as a mainstream artist. “It was a dream come true to see ‘Orente’ and ‘Pick Up’ resonate with so many people. That album set the stage for everything I’ve been able to achieve,” he said.
In the decade since “Sade,” Adekunle Gold has become one of Nigeria’s most versatile artists. Known for his exceptional songwriting and captivating performances, he has proven himself capable of evolving with the changing landscape of music. His ability to blend different genres while maintaining his unique sound has made him a household name not only in Nigeria but across Africa.
Initially recognized for his folk-influenced sound, Adekunle Gold’s versatility became even more evident with the release of his album “Afro-pop Vol 1.” This album marked his transition into the world of pop music, earning him even greater commercial success. “I wanted to explore new sounds, and ‘Afro-pop Vol 1’ allowed me to do that. It was my opportunity to embrace the Afro-pop genre fully,” he explained.
To date, Adekunle Gold has released five albums, each demonstrating his growth as an artist and his ability to stay relevant in a rapidly changing music scene. His discography includes chart-topping hits and an array of memorable tracks that have earned him numerous awards and recognition.
As he celebrates 10 years in the industry, Adekunle Gold looks back at the path he has carved and the milestones he has achieved. “It’s been an amazing journey,” he said. “From being a graphic designer to becoming one of the biggest names in African music, I’m grateful for every step along the way.”
With his remarkable career trajectory, Adekunle Gold shows no signs of slowing down. He continues to push boundaries with his music, eagerly anticipating the next chapter of his career. “I’m just getting started. There’s still so much more to come,” he stated, leaving fans excited for what the future holds.
Peace OdekunleDecember 20, 20242 Mins read
