Nigerian rapper and singer, Zlatan Ibile, has shared how an academic setback unexpectedly paved the way for his successful music career.
In a chat with Nandi Madida on Apple Music 1, the “Zanku” crooner reflected on his early struggles and how they shaped his journey as an artiste. He explained that his latest album, Symbol of Hope, was inspired by his determination to encourage people from humble beginnings not to give up on their dreams.
He said, “I used to listen to music before I even knew I was going to make music. I was already a fan of so many artistes and saw them as symbols; people whose lives changed from nothing to something. Now, being in this position myself, I see how my music inspires others not to give up. I get so many messages from people who tell me my songs keep them going. That’s why I decided to call the album ‘Symbol of Hope’. It’s my way of saying, ‘If I can do it, you can too.’”
Born Omoniyi Temidayo, the rapper revealed that his path to music began after he failed to secure admission into university because of poor grades in mathematics and accounting.
“I was supposed to go to university in 2011 or 2012, but I didn’t have my complete papers. My dad is a pastor, and I used to play drums in church, but I never thought I’d become an artiste. When I failed my exam, I started going to the studio with a friend. The first song I recorded was rubbish, but when I played it for my siblings, they made me feel like Jay-Z that day,” he said.
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Zlatan noted that encouragement from his family and friends kept him going, even when music seemed like a hobby. His breakthrough came during his first semester at university when he participated in a rap competition.
“I didn’t even believe anyone could win a car through music. Out of 140 contestants, I won. I was just 19, and it was only three weeks into school. That was when I started taking rap seriously. I was writing every day and night. That moment changed my life.”
He also spoke about the global success of his signature dance move, Zanku, an acronym for Zlatan Abeg No Kill Us.
He said, “That’s Africa to the world. The most interesting thing is that I attached my name to it. There’s no way you’ll mention Zanku without mentioning Zlatan. Growing up, I always wanted to have my own dance move, and when it happened, it went viral globally.”
