Wizkid Biography: Real Name, Age, Net Worth, Children &Life Story

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When you hear the name Wizkid, you probably think of hit songs, sold-out concerts, and timeless Afrobeats classics like Ojuelegba and Essence. Behind the global fame, however, is the story of a young boy from Surulere who turned his passion for music into one of Africa’s greatest success stories.

If you have ever wondered “Who is Wizkid?” or searched for Wizkid’s real name, age, children, or net worth, this updated 2025 biography takes you through his background, rise to fame, achievements, and personal life.

Quick Facts About Wizkid

• Real Name: Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun

• Date of Birth: July 16, 1990

• Age (2025): 35 years old

• Place of Birth: Surulere, Lagos State, Nigeria

• Children: Four sons

• Net Worth (2025): $50 million

• Profession: Singer, Songwriter, Performer

• Genres: Afrobeats, Afro-pop, R&B

Wizkid Early Life and Background

Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, professionally known as Wizkid, was born on July 16, 1990, in Surulere, a lively area in Lagos State, Nigeria. He grew up in a large polygamous family; his father, Alhaji Muniru Olatunji Balogun, had three wives, and his mother, Jane Dolapo Balogun, was one of them.

Wizkid was his mother’s only son but had twelve sisters. His upbringing reflected both Islamic and Christian influences, as his father was a Muslim and his mother a Christian. Growing up in Surulere exposed him to a mix of cultural traditions and musical styles that shaped his identity.

 

Education and Musical Influences

Wizkid attended Ijebu Ode Grammar School, where he developed his interest in music. He began singing in the church choir, an experience that built his early confidence and performance skills.

He has cited Fela Kuti, King Sunny Ade, and Bob Marley as major influences. Their sound inspired him to create a fusion of Afrobeats, reggae, and pop. Although he enrolled at Lagos State University, Wizkid dropped out to focus on music full-time, a decision that would soon prove successful.

 

How Wizkid Started His Music Career

Wizkid’s journey began when he was just 11 years old under the stage name Lil Prinz. He recorded a seven-track album with a group called Glorious Five, which marked his first step into music, even though it did not gain national attention.

In 2009, Wizkid signed with Banky W’s Empire Mates Entertainment (EME). Under EME, he released “Holla at Your Boy” in 2010, a breakout single that made him a household name in Nigeria.

His debut album, Superstar (2011), included hits such as:

• Holla at Your Boy

• Pakurumo

• Love My Baby

• Tease Me/Bad Guys

This album launched his career and established Wizkid as one of Nigeria’s most promising young artists.

Wizkid’s Top Albums and Hit Songs

Over the years, Wizkid has released several successful albums that defined Afrobeats worldwide:

• Superstar (2011): His debut album that gained national recognition.

• Ayo (2014): Featured Ojuelegba, later remixed by Drake.

• Sounds from the Other Side (2017): Featured collaborations with Drake and Chris Brown.

• Made in Lagos (2020): Included the international hit Essence featuring Tems.

• More Love, Less Ego (2022): Continued his global Afrobeats influence.

Each project demonstrated his musical versatility and international appeal.

 

Wizkid  Awards and Achievements

Wizkid has achieved extraordinary success both in Nigeria and globally. Some of his most notable achievements include:

• Grammy Award (2021): Best Music Video for Beyoncé’s Brown Skin Girl as a featured artist.

• BET Awards: Multiple wins for Best International Act.

• MOBO Awards: Repeated wins for Best African Act.

• MTV Europe Music Awards: Best African Act.

• Billboard History: First Nigerian artist to chart on the Billboard Hot 100 with Essence.

• Sold-Out O2 Arena: Three consecutive nights in 2021.

• Guinness World Record: Recognition for his contribution to Drake’s One Dance, the most streamed song on Spotify in 2016.

Wizkid’s influence has been central to bringing Afrobeats to global recognition.

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  •  Richest Musicians in Nigeria 2025: Net Worth & Sources of Wealth

 

Wizkid’s Love Life and Children

 

Wizkid is known to keep his personal life private, but fans have followed his relationships closely. He has been linked to Tania Omotayo in the past and is currently in a long-term relationship with Jada Pollock, his manager.

He has four sons from different relationships:

• Boluwatife Balogun (with Shola Ogudu)

• Ayodeji Jr. (with Binta Diamond Diallo)

• Zion (with Jada Pollock)

• Morayo (with Jada Pollock)

Despite his demanding schedule, Wizkid remains involved in his children’s lives and often speaks about fatherhood in interviews.

 

Interesting Facts About Wizkid You Didn’t Know

Here are some fun, surprising facts you might not know about Wizkid:

• He was just 11 years old when he made his first album with the Glorious Five.
• His first stage name was Lil Prinz.
• Wizkid is a big fan of designer fashion, especially Dolce & Gabbana.
• He holds the record as the first Nigerian artist to sell out London’s Royal Albert Hall.
• He’s collaborated with heavyweights like Beyoncé, Drake, Chris Brown, Justin Bieber, Damian Marley, and Skepta.
• His song “Essence” was dubbed the “song of the summer” by multiple US radio stations in 2021.
• Wizkid is signed to RCA Records, a major US label, which is part of Sony Music.

 

Wizkid’s Lifestyle and Personality

Wizkid is known for his calm and easygoing personality. In interviews, he often maintains a low profile and allows his music to speak for him.

He is also known for his philanthropy. Over the years, he has supported educational and community development projects in his hometown, Surulere, including paying school fees for children and donating to local causes.

Wizkid remains active on social media as @wizkidayo on most platforms, except Facebook, where he uses Wizkid.

 

Wizkid’s Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Wizkid’s net worth is estimated at $50 million. His wealth comes from:

• Album sales and music streaming royalties

• Sold-out world tours and concerts

• Endorsement deals with brands such as Pepsi, MTN, and UBA

• International collaborations and investments

He remains one of the highest-earning musicians in Africa.

 

Conclusion: Wizkid’s Journey from Surulere to Global Stardom

Wizkid’s story is one of talent, vision, and persistence. From a young boy in Surulere to a Grammy-winning global superstar, he has proved that African music can compete on any stage.

His influence extends beyond entertainment. Wizkid’s success has inspired a generation of young Africans to dream beyond their limitations. The Starboy story continues to unfold, and the world is still listening.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions About Wizkid

1: Who is Wizkid?

Wizkid, born Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, is a Nigerian Afrobeats singer and songwriter known for global hits such as Ojuelegba and Essence.

2: Where is Wizkid from?

Wizkid is from Surulere, Lagos State, Nigeria.

3: What is Wizkid’s age?

He is 35 years old, born on July 16, 1990.

4: Is Wizkid married?

No, Wizkid is not married, but he is in a long-term relationship with Jada Pollock, his manager and the mother of two of his sons.

5. What is Wizkid’s net worth in 2025?

Wizkid’s estimated net worth in 2025 is $50 million.

6: What is Wizkid’s real name?

His real name is Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun.

7. How many children does Wizkid have?

Wizkid has four sons from different relationships.