Renowned Nigerian rap sensation Olamide has provided insights into the motivations behind the establishment of his record label, YBNL Nation.
In a candid revelation, the artist, often referred to as the “YBNL boss,” unveiled his strategic decision to reinvest into the music industry by creating his record label, aiming to curb extravagant spending and foster a sustainable ecosystem for emerging talents.
Olamide, who has achieved immense success in the Nigerian music scene, shared his rationale during an insightful interview with Nandi Madida on Apple Music’s Africa Now Radio.
The artist divulged that as his music garnered international acclaim and resonated with audiences worldwide, he recognized the need to transform his passion into a viable business venture.
The establishment of YBNL Nation, Olamide explained, was a calculated move to channel his resources and expertise back into the music industry.
YBNL Nation, under Olamide’s guidance, has become a hub for nurturing and developing young talents.
The record label has successfully introduced artists such as Lil Kesh, Fireboy DML, Adekunle Gold, Viktoh, and Davolee, among others, who have gone on to make significant contributions to the Nigerian music scene.
Speaking to the host, he said;
“The world was in love with my stuff, (and) I was grateful for that. But, I also felt it was time to make sure I reinvested in that same thing that was making people love and appreciate me. It used to be just about passion, but I figured it was high time I stepped up, reinvested and made it a proper business.
I set up my own record label and started signing artistes because I did not want all that money to just go wasting on ‘ballin’ (having fun). All that money had to go back into the business. That was how the whole thing started.”
Talking about his forthcoming ‘Unruly’ tour, the YBNL CEO said;
“I think the last time I was on stage was last year at Mr Money (Asake)’s concert in London, United Kingdom. But, this December, I will be having my concert in Nigeria. Also, I will be going on tour next summer to the United States of America and Europe. I am going to be back on the road.
“My fans have been asking me to ‘come outside’. And now, I am ready. I have been on the ground, trying to put in work and get my stuff together, because the new wave is so crazy right now, and one has to figure out a way to be in tune with the times, which is not easy. So, I have been working on that for so long. That’s why it took me so long.”
