Nigerian rap icon and YBNL Nation founder Olamide has been named one of Billboard’s Global Power Players for 2025, a prestigious recognition of his pivotal role in elevating African music on the world stage.
Olamide’s inclusion highlights his visionary leadership at YBNL Nation, the powerhouse label behind chart-topping stars Asake and Fireboy DML. Under his guidance, the label has experienced a landmark year.
In 2024, Asake’s “Lungu Boy” was declared Nigeria’s biggest album by TurnTable Charts, while Fireboy DML’s “Adedamola” drew critical acclaim for its artistry and depth. The label’s momentum continued as Asake sold out London’s O2 Arena multiple times, joining an elite group of Nigerian artists to do so.
A major milestone came when Asake’s track “MMS” earned a Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance at the 67th Grammy Awards, reinforcing the label’s global reach.
Speaking on the honour, Olamide said:
“YBNL Nation has made significant strides in expanding our global footprint and solidifying our presence in key international markets. Collaborations with international artists and producers have helped bridge the gap between Afrobeats and other genres, further establishing our label as a key player in the global music scene.”
Since launching YBNL in 2012, Olamide has cultivated a legacy of nurturing talent and pushing creative boundaries. His recognition by Billboard marks a new chapter for the artist-turned-executive, as YBNL continues to shape the future of Afrobeats on the world stage.
Source: African Publicity