Nigerian singer and rapper Asake is making headlines across Nigeria and globally with his bold new look. The 30-year-old artist recently surprised fans by sharing a photo on Instagram, showcasing his short hair—a significant departure from his signature dreadlocks.
Along with his fresh hairstyle, Asake’s face tattoos have also sparked conversations among his followers, with reactions ranging from admiration to critique.
A Meteoric Rise in Music
Asake, born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, has enjoyed a remarkable career trajectory. With three studio albums to his name, he has cemented his place at the top of the Nigerian music scene and gained international acclaim.
His debut album, Mr. Money With The Vibe (2022), propelled him into the spotlight, breaking streaming records and earning accolades, including Album of the Year at The Headies in 2023. The album featured hit tracks like Terminator, Muse, and Peace Be Unto You (PBUY) and was certified Silver in the UK after selling over 200,000 units. Collaborations with artists like Russ and Burna Boy added to the album’s global appeal.
Mr. Money With The Vibe was also recognized by Rolling Stone magazine, ranking 142nd on its list of the “250 Greatest Albums of the 21st Century.”
Grammy Nominations and Performances
Asake’s talent has earned him multiple award nominations, including a Grammy nomination for his collaboration with Wizkid on the track MMS, competing in the Best African Music Performance category at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards in 2025.
This isn’t his first brush with Grammy recognition—his 2023 hit Amapiano from the album Work of Art was also a nominee.
A Global Star
Asake has performed in iconic venues like the Barclays Center in New York and the O2 Arena in London, captivating audiences with his unique blend of Afrobeat and Yoruba-infused music. His songs, played in clubs and casinos worldwide, inspire listeners to embrace joy and resilience.
Lungu Boy: His Third Studio Album
In August 2024, Asake released his third studio album, Lungu Boy. With standout tracks like MMS, Active, and My Heart, the 48-minute album has topped charts across continents.
Active, a collaboration with American rapper Travis Scott, explores themes of success and luxury, blending Afrobeat, trap, and house music. The song’s music video, filmed in New York City, has already garnered over 13 million views on YouTube.
Mentorship and Early Days
Asake owes much of his success to Olamide, the founder of YBNL Nation, who discovered and nurtured his talent. Since his debut, Asake has collaborated with global artists like Wizkid, Stormzy, and Central Cee, solidifying his status as a musical powerhouse.
With his latest Grammy nomination and a growing international fanbase, Asake continues to prove that his music and vision know no boundaries.