Nigerian rap icon and YBNL Nation founder Olamide has been officially recognised by Billboard as one of 2025’s Global Power Players, joining a prestigious list of music executives shaping the global soundscape.
The honour celebrates Olamide’s outstanding achievements as a label executive, particularly his pivotal role in the rise of Nigerian superstars Asake and Fireboy DML—both of whom released critically acclaimed albums in 2024.
Asake’s third studio album, Lungu Boy, emerged as the biggest album in Nigeria in 2024, according to TurnTable Charts, while Fireboy’s introspective fourth project Adedamola earned praise as one of the most acclaimed Nigerian albums of the year.
“YBNL Nation has made significant strides in expanding our global footprint and solidifying our presence in key international markets,” Olamide told Billboard. “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.”
In 2024, YBNL’s global impact was felt on multiple fronts. Asake headlined a sold-out show at London’s O2 Arena, becoming the third Nigerian artist, after Wizkid and Davido—to sell out the iconic venue more than once. His hit single “MMS” off Lungu Boy also earned a nomination for Best African Music Performance at the 67th Grammy Awards.
Olamide’s journey from street-hop pioneer to international music mogul has redefined the modern Nigerian music executive blueprint. Under his leadership, YBNL has birthed multiple chart-topping acts, including Lil Kesh, Adekunle Gold, Young Jonn, and Pheelz, many of whom have since expanded their reach far beyond Africa.
This Billboard recognition not only solidifies Olamide’s global status but also highlights YBNL’s enduring influence in taking Afrobeats to the world, on its own terms.
