Nigerian rap icon and YBNL Nation founder, Olamide Adedeji, has been honored as one of Billboard's 2025 Global Power Players. This recognition underscores his significant influence in propelling Afrobeats onto the global stage and his pivotal role in nurturing some of Nigeria's most prominent musical talents.
Under Olamide's leadership, YBNL Nation has emerged as a powerhouse in the music industry. The label's artists have achieved remarkable success, with Asake's third album, Lungu Boy, being named Nigeria's biggest album of 2024 by TurnTable Charts, and Fireboy DML's fourth album, Adedamola, receiving widespread critical acclaim.
Olamide's strategic vision has been instrumental in expanding YBNL's global footprint. A notable milestone was Asake's sold-out performances at London's iconic O2 Arena, making him the third Nigerian artist to achieve multiple sell-outs at the venue. Additionally, Asake's hit track "MMS" earned a Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance at the 67th Grammy Awards.
In response to the accolade, Olamide expressed his commitment to bridging Afrobeats with other genres through international collaborations, stating, "YBNL Nation has made significant strides in expanding our global footprint and solidifying our presence in key international markets."
This recognition by Billboard places Olamide among the elite figures shaping the future of global music, highlighting his role in elevating African music on the world stage.