Famous Nigerian music executive, Banky W, recently shared insights into the humble beginnings of global afrobeat star Wizkid, describing his rise from a struggling artist, often referred to as a “studio rat,” to an internationally acclaimed musician.
In a candid recounting, Banky W revealed that before Wizkid achieved fame, he spent countless hours in studios, tirelessly honing his craft despite lacking the resources to pay for professional recording time.
The story, which has captivated audiences on social media, offers a rare glimpse into the early days of a star who has now come to represent the vibrant global presence of Afrobeat. Banky W was instrumental in launching Wizkid’s career through his record label, Empire Mates Entertainment (EME), which helped propel Wizkid into the spotlight.
Reflecting on those early days, Banky W painted a picture of a young, determined Wizkid, constantly present in various studios around Lagos, hoping for a chance to record.
According to Banky W, Wizkid would show up in any studio that would let him hang around, waiting and hoping that producers and engineers would notice his dedication.
“Wizkid for a long time in his life was not fortunate enough to afford studio time,” Banky W explained, capturing the financial struggles that Wizkid faced as a young artist. Often, Wizkid would spend entire days in the studio, waiting patiently for a moment when he might be allowed a brief recording session. Banky W described Wizkid’s process: he would sit, listen, and observe, prepared to jump on the mic at a moment’s notice if someone allowed him a few minutes to record.
It was this relentless persistence that ultimately shaped Wizkid’s creative process. As he waited, Wizkid developed a knack for creating melodies and hooks on the spot, perfecting his songwriting skills. Banky W noted that the afrobeat star’s commitment to his craft was evident from the beginning.
“He would hang out all day, waiting, hoping, and praying that the engineers and producers would pity him and say ‘oya, come and record for 15 or 30 minutes’ because he could not pay for his session,” Banky W recalled, acknowledging how this period of intense struggle built Wizkid’s foundation as a musician.
Throughout these long hours in the studio, Wizkid didn’t just wait—he prepared. Banky W highlighted that Wizkid’s process involved constant brainstorming, working on hooks and melodies in case he was given the opportunity to record, even if it was just for five minutes. Wizkid’s strategy was to have lyrics, rhythms, and melodies ready in his mind, so if the chance arose, he could jump right into a performance without hesitation.
This approach not only honed Wizkid’s skills but also built the agility and speed that he is known for today. “He didn’t have time to think about what to write at the moment, so that became his process,” Banky W explained.
As Wizkid waited and prepared, his skill in crafting songs quickly earned him recognition. Banky W described how Wizkid became one of the fastest songwriters he had ever worked with, capable of transforming a simple melody into a potential hit. Reflecting on the transformation, Banky W shared that Wizkid could sit down, listen to a beat, and begin freestyling a melody that would eventually evolve into a song.
This unique ability to rapidly produce compelling music became a defining feature of Wizkid’s career. It’s this very skill that enabled him to transition from the “studio rat” phase of his life to becoming a household name in music.
Banky W further highlighted that Wizkid’s rapid songwriting was not only a skill but also a necessity forged by his early circumstances. Wizkid’s beginnings, shaped by these financial limitations, laid the groundwork for the artist he would become quick, inventive, and resilient.
“Now he is one of the fastest songwriters that I have ever encountered in my life,” Banky W reflected, emphasizing that what began as a coping mechanism for limited studio time transformed into an advantage that would set Wizkid apart in the music industry.
In those days, his friends and fellow artists often saw Wizkid’s persistence as mere ambition, but Banky W understood it as something much deeper. This was a young artist who, despite the odds, was committed to mastering his craft.
Banky W shared that Wizkid’s rise has been as much a testament to his musical talent as it has been to his sheer determination. He was not content to wait for opportunities to come his way; instead, he made the most of whatever little time he was given.
Today, Wizkid’s story resonates with countless fans around the world, not only because of his hit songs but because of the journey he represents from a young, unknown artist who was once referred to as a “studio rat,” to a global superstar.
Banky W’s recounting of Wizkid’s early years provides a powerful reminder of the perseverance required in the music industry, especially for artists coming from humble backgrounds. Wizkid’s success, built on his tenacity and willingness to work within his means, is an inspiring narrative for aspiring musicians everywhere.
As Banky W put it, the name “Wiz” started from these very moments—moments that required quick thinking, creativity, and a readiness to act without delay. From his earliest days in the studio to his meteoric rise, Wizkid’s journey showcases the resilience and passion that is often required to succeed. He did not stumble upon fame; he earned it, one melody, one hook, and one opportunity at a time.
This reflection from Banky W offers not only a look into the backstory of one of Nigeria’s biggest stars but also serves as a broader testament to the power of persistence and passion. Wizkid’s story is a celebration of how talent, when combined with relentless effort, can turn dreams into reality.
His path from “studio rat” to internationally recognized Afrobeat icon continues to inspire fans and aspiring artists worldwide, showing that success is often rooted in the struggles and sacrifices made along the way.
