Superstar: You had to be there in 2011 to understand how Wizkid became the ‘face of Afrobeat’

On June 12, 2011, Nigerian recording artiste, Ayodeji Balogun who is better known as Wizkid released his debut studio album, Superstar.

The music project quickly catapulted the then-emerging superstar into the mainstream market, making him one of the biggest exports from Nigeria.

Signed to Banky W‘s Empire Mates Entertainment (EME), Wizkid was the talented youngster who was enthralling the Nigerian audience with his personality, looks and musical dexterity. He wasn’t only charming, he had a calm personality where everyone was mesmerized by his aura.

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Prior to becoming Star Boy records founder and the flagbearer of the Afrobeats music culture across the globe, Wizkid kicked things off with Superstar.

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As the title of the album implied, Wizkid knew what he wanted for himself and it is only safe to say he has attained his aim and objective in 2023. In 2011 at the emergence of the debut studio, Wizkid spoke to a burgeoning generation of young individuals who were trying to discover their path through life.

A set of young individuals who were trying to define their own fashion style and sense of belong.

In it’s prime, everyone wanted to wear the “Ama kip kip shirt“, additionally, the snapbacks, pair of high tops sneakers, carrot pants, studs, etc. These were subtle ways Wizkid spoke to a generation; it is his personality that attracted a coterie of younger millennials to him and till date, they have remained loyal to the 33-year-old musician.

It was the combustion of the “Holla at your boy” and “Pakurumo” off the album, Superstar that saw the commencement of the Wizkid FC movement. Aside from his looks, Wizkid’s pen game is undeniable, though his lyrics have been criticized in recent years, he has maintained his essence as the alpha of the modern Afrobeats music culture.