Wizkid's Journey From Disintegrated Music Group to Grammy Award 20 Years Later

[Wizkid Grammy/Naija News]

Written by Pharis Kinyua 

In the heart of Lagos, Nigeria, a young boy named Wizkid uncovered the magic of music at the tender age of 11. The allure of melodies and the power of lyrics captured his imagination, igniting a creative flame that would forever shape his destiny.

In 2001, Wizkid embarked on his first musical odyssey by joining forces with a group of talented friends, forming the collective known as Glorious 5. It was a humble beginning, marked by shared dreams and boundless aspirations. Wizkid and his companions poured their hearts and souls into their collaborative project, driven by an unyielding commitment to musical greatness.

As Glorious 5 embarked on their journey, the promise of a bright future loomed on the horizon. They possessed undeniable talent and an unwavering dedication to their craft. The music they created together resonated with audiences, hinting at the potential for something extraordinary.

However, like many artistic endeavors, the path of a music group is filled with twists and turns. Despite their shared vision and undeniable talent, the members of Glorious 5 eventually made the difficult decision to part ways, each setting out on their individual paths to musical stardom. It was a turning point for Wizkid, a moment that marked the beginning of his solo voyage into the world of music.

This moment of transition would prove pivotal, as it set the stage for the rise of Wizkid, the solo artist. Driven by an unrelenting passion for music, he forged ahead with unwavering determination, determined to leave an indelible mark on the industry.

In the years that followed, Wizkid's unique sound and dynamic stage presence catapulted him to the forefront of the music world. He effortlessly blended Afrobeat, reggae, hip-hop, and R&B, captivating audiences with his infectious melodies and charismatic personality. His music transcended borders, resonating with fans from Lagos to London, Lagos to Los Angeles, and Lagos to the farthest corners of the globe.

His career became a meteoric ascent, marked by a series of successful albums that showcased his musical versatility and innovation. From "Superstar" to "Ayo" and "Sounds From The Other Side," each release solidified his status as one of Africa's most influential musicians. Collaborations with international superstars like Drake, Beyoncé, and Skepta further expanded his global reach and left an indelible imprint on the world's musical landscape.

His journey to musical stardom is punctuated by numerous accolades and awards, both local and international, that celebrate his dedication to the craft. With over 80 prestigious awards to his name, he has become a symbol of African talent and global acclaim.

Remarkably, Wizkid, known for his musical ingenuity and creative prowess, has received recognition from the most eminent award-giving bodies in the world. He has claimed awards at The Headies, MTV EMA, AMA Awards, Billboard Awards, NAACP Awards, MOBO Awards, and the Soul Train Awards, to name a few. Each award symbolizes a milestone in his career, reaffirming his exceptional artistry and the profound influence he wields over the music world.

However, one of the most significant highlights of Wizkid's illustrious career is his record at the Grammy Awards. As one of Africa's most celebrated musicians, he has received nominations for the coveted Grammy Award four times. The anticipation surrounding his potential future nominations is mounting, particularly with the introduction of new categories at the Grammy Awards.

In 2021, Wizkid achieved an extraordinary milestone by clinching his first Grammy Award. This prestigious accolade was bestowed upon him for his collaboration on the iconic track "Brown Skin Girl," a masterpiece crafted alongside the incomparable Beyoncé. The Grammy, awarded in the Best Music Video category, is a testament to Wizkid's creative brilliance and his ability to produce captivating visuals that resonate with audiences worldwide.

Wizkid's journey, from the inception of Glorious 5 to his Grammy glory, is an inspiring testament to the power of unwavering passion, creativity, and dedication. He has not only left an indelible mark on the world of music but has also set a standard for excellence and an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire artists and music lovers alike.