Ife Abe
Ahmed Ololade, known professionally as Asake, is one of the most electrifying voices in contemporary Afrobeats. Blending Fuji, Afrobeats, Amapiano, and street pop, he has carved out a distinct sound that resonates from the streets of Lagos to arenas worldwide. His music—marked by high-energy beats, anthemic choruses, and Yoruba-infused lyricism—has made him a cultural phenomenon, redefining how the world experiences Nigerian street music.
From the Streets to Stardom
Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Asake’s musical journey was deeply rooted in the rich traditions of Yoruba music. Inspired by Fuji legends like Pasuma, Kwam 1, and the rhythmic dynamism of Fela Kuti, he developed a performance style that merges spirituality, storytelling, and unfiltered street energy.
Though he had been making music for years, his breakout moment came in 2020 with “Mr. Money”, a song that captured the hustle and celebratory spirit of Lagos. But it was his signing to YBNL Nation, under the mentorship of Olamide, that catapulted him to the global stage. His 2022 debut album, “Mr. Money With The Vibe”, became an instant classic, featuring back-to-back hits like “Organise,” “Sungba (Remix)” with Burna Boy, and “Terminator.” The album shattered streaming records and positioned him as one of the most streamed African artists globally.
Electrifying Global Performances
Asake’s rise has been accompanied by a stage presence unlike any other. His performances are not just concerts—they are cultural experiences. Draped in traditional Yoruba attire, backed by a vibrant live band, and infused with relentless energy, his shows bring the raw essence of Lagos street life to every corner of the globe.
Milestone Performances
- O2 Academy Brixton, London (2022) – His three-night sold-out run was a statement of his growing global dominance, with fans singing along word-for-word.
- O2 Arena, London (2023) – Selling out the 20,000-capacity arena in minutes, he became one of the few Nigerian artists to headline such a prestigious venue so early in his career.
- Afro Nation Portugal & Miami (2023) – His performances turned festival grounds into massive street parties, proving his global crossover appeal.
- New York’s Barclays Center (2023) – A triumphant moment in his U.S. takeover, showing that his street pop movement was truly international.
The Genius of Asake: Music, Artistry & Impact
What makes Asake unique is his ability to elevate street music into a global movement. His sound—layered with percussive Amapiano beats, call-and-response hooks, and deep Yoruba proverbs—feels both intimate and universal. His visuals, often infused with Afrofuturist aesthetics, blend the old and the new, painting a picture of an artist bridging Lagos street culture with global pop stardom.
Asake is not just riding the wave of Afrobeats; he is shaping its future. With each performance, he proves that Nigerian street pop is not just a local sound but a worldwide phenomenon. From Lagos to London, New York to Paris, his music is an anthem of resilience, joy, and the unbreakable spirit of the streets.
