"Samklef Claims Olamide's Influence on Nigerian Music Surpasses Don Jazzy's"

Table of Contents

1. Impact Claim
2. Response to Critics
3. Argument for Respect
4. Prolific Music Executives

Veteran producer, Samklef, has asserted that renowned rapper and YBNL founder, Olamide, has had a greater influence on the Nigerian music scene than the celebrated music executive, Don Jazzy.

This statement came as a response to the criticism Olamide is currently facing for labeling Wizkid as “the greatest Afrobeats artist after Fela.”

He criticized Olamide’s detractors, stating that they were belittling his contributions to the Nigerian music industry by disregarding his viewpoint.

Samklef contended that Olamide deserves respect, claiming that he dismantled the barriers set by gatekeepers in the Nigerian music industry.

On his X account, he expressed, “May anyone who speaks ill of Olamide face consequences! His influence in the industry is such that even Don Jazzy learns from him.”

“It was Olamide who humbled Don Jazzy after that Headies incident and broke the chain of industry gatekeepers... It’s him who has influenced Don Jazzy to adopt this new persona.”

“After Wizkid, Olamide holds the genuine street credibility.”

Don Jazzy and Olamide are widely acknowledged as Nigeria’s most influential music executives, owing to the numerous talents they have helped rise to fame through their record labels.

Don Jazzy played a crucial role in the emergence of Wande Coal, D’Prince, Dr Sid, and various artists through the now-defunct Mo’Hits Records, which he co-founded with D’banj.

Following the split of Mo’Hits, he established Mavin Records, which has produced superstars like Tiwa Savage, Reekado Banks, Korede Bello, Johnny Drille, Rema, and Ayra Starr.

Meanwhile, Olamide has, through his YBNL label, launched the careers of artists such as Adekunle Gold, Lil Kesh, Fireboy DML, Asake, and many others.