Eldee Reveals How He Shaped Wizkid’s Music Style
Nigerian music veteran Eldee The Don has opened up about his role in influencing the early career of Grammy-winning artist Wizkid. In a recent appearance on the Adesope Live show, Eldee shared how he helped guide Wizkid towards the Afrobeats genre, which would later become his defining sound.
When Wizkid was signed to the EME record label, he was primarily focused on reggae and dancehall music. However, Eldee saw the potential for Wizkid to resonate with Nigerian audiences by incorporating local influences into his music. Eldee advised Wizkid to blend his original style with Afrobeats elements, suggesting that he find a middle ground between his love for reggae and the rich musical culture of Nigeria.
Eldee explained, “Wizkid was leaning towards reggae and dancehall when Banky W signed him before he dropped his first single, but I told him he has to find a middle ground and do something Nigerian with a lot of flavors in it.” This advice proved to be crucial in shaping Wizkid’s early sound and establishing his path as a leader in the global Afrobeats movement.
Wizkid took Eldee’s counsel to heart, eventually creating a unique fusion of reggae, dancehall, and Afrobeats that would lead to his international success. The decision to embrace Nigerian influences played a major role in Wizkid’s rise as a global music sensation.
Eldee’s influence on Wizkid’s career is a testament to the importance of mentorship in the music industry. His guidance helped Wizkid carve out a distinctive space within Afrobeats, which has since gained worldwide recognition.
In conclusion, Eldee’s reflections offer insight into the collaborative and mentoring nature of the Nigerian music scene, where established artists help guide the next generation toward success. His contribution to Wizkid’s career highlights how key advice and support can change the trajectory of an artist’s career.
