Osun State, often celebrated for its deep-rooted Yoruba traditions and historical significance, stands as a cornerstone of Nigeria's cultural identity. From the legendary Osun-Osogbo festival to its rich artistic expressions, the state continues to be a nurturing ground for talent and creativity. Among its most prominent exports are musical icons who have transcended local acclaim to attain global recognition.
These artists are not only known for their lyrical prowess and unique sounds but also for their staggering financial successes. This blog post explores the wealthiest musicians from Osun State, examining how they built their empires, their musical journeys, and their lasting influence in the entertainment world.
1. Davido (David Adedeji Adeleke)
Estimated Net Worth: $90 million
Genre: Afrobeats, Pop
City of Origin: Ede
No list of wealthy Nigerian musicians, let alone Osun State natives, would be complete without the international megastar Davido. Born into one of Nigeria’s most affluent families, Davido carved out a space of his own in the entertainment world through sheer talent, strategic branding, and relentless hard work.
Although born in Atlanta, Georgia, Davido proudly identifies with his Osun roots—particularly Ede, where his family originates. His breakout single “Dami Duro” (2011) set the tone for what would become a decorated career. Since then, hits like “Fall,” “If,” “FEM,” and “Unavailable” have dominated charts across Africa and beyond.
Davido's business acumen is as impressive as his musical talents. He founded Davido Music Worldwide (DMW), a record label that has launched the careers of artists like Mayorkun, Peruzzi, and Dremo. He also boasts endorsement deals with MTN, Infinix Mobile, Puma, and Martell, and he charges up to $2 million for international performances.
2. Olamide (Olamide Adedeji)
Estimated Net Worth: $15 million
Genre: Yoruba Rap, Hip-Hop
Town of Origin: Ilesa
Olamide, known affectionately as “Baddo,” represents the street sound of Nigeria with lyrical depth and authentic storytelling. Born in Bariga, Lagos, to parents from Ilesa in Osun State, Olamide is a proud cultural ambassador of Yoruba heritage through his music.
He burst onto the scene with the 2011 album "Rapsodi," quickly becoming a voice for the streets. Follow-up albums like “YBNL,” “Baddest Guy Ever Liveth,” and “Carpe Diem” cemented his place as one of Nigeria's most consistent music makers. His YBNL Nation label helped bring artists like Lil Kesh, Fireboy DML, and Asake into the limelight.
Endorsements with Guinness, Ciroc, Sterling Bank, and Etisalat further pad his wealth, making him not just a musical powerhouse, but a business mogul in his own right.
3. Eedris Abdulkareem
Estimated Net Worth: $1 million
Genre: Hip-Hop, Social Commentary
Town of Origin: Ilesha
Eedris Abdulkareem, once part of the pioneering Nigerian hip-hop group The Remedies, is known as much for his music as he is for his activism. His roots in Ilesha, Osun State, tie him to the Yoruba cultural base that informs much of his socio-political commentary.
His solo career took off with tracks like “Jaga Jaga,” which boldly criticized corruption in Nigeria. Eedris has had a roller-coaster career filled with controversy, including a famous spat with 50 Cent in 2004. Despite facing challenges in the industry, his commitment to advocacy and speaking truth to power has earned him respect and influence.
Though not commercially as dominant as Davido or Olamide, Eedris has sustained relevance and modest wealth, thanks to his loyal fan base and consistent message.
4. DJ Kaywise (Ayorinde Kehinde Okiki)
Estimated Net Worth: $1 million
Genre: DJ, Mixtape Production
Town of Origin: Ile-Ife
Hailing from the ancient city of Ile-Ife, DJ Kaywise has become one of Nigeria’s most sought-after disc jockeys. His career took off in 2010 with the release of street mixtapes that gained massive popularity, especially in Alaba International Market.
Over the years, he has collaborated with leading artists like Tiwa Savage, Phyno, Mayorkun, and Naira Marley. His track “What Type of Dance” featuring Mayorkun, Naira Marley, and Zlatan was a massive hit in 2020.
Kaywise is also a mentor and entrepreneur. His “Kaywise Academy” trains aspiring DJs and music producers. His annual event “Joor Concert” has grown into one of the biggest street music festivals in Lagos and beyond.
5. Ojo Ade
Estimated Net Worth: $500,000
Genre: Gospel
Town of Origin: Ikeji Ile
Ojo Ade is a gospel music legend who has been ministering through music since the late 1970s. Born in Ikeji Ile, Osun State, he began his musical journey in church before launching into full-time gospel music in 1981 with the release of “Jesun To Funmi.”
He is revered in Christian circles for his deep spiritual messages and evergreen tunes. Although he doesn’t attract the same commercial endorsements as secular artists, his long-standing influence in gospel music and consistent album sales, particularly within Yoruba-speaking Christian communities, make him one of Osun State’s most respected musical exports.
6. Oluwaseun Olaegbe (Skilzar)
Estimated Net Worth: $500,000
Genre: Afrobeats, Tech Entrepreneur
Town of Origin: Ifedayo
Skilzar is a modern blend of musical talent and technological expertise. Hailing from Ifedayo in Osun State, Skilzar is both a rising Afrobeats singer and the CEO of Skilzar Digital, a tech firm specializing in software development and IT solutions.
His journey is a testament to the changing face of the entertainment industry, where artists are leveraging digital platforms to build brands and wealth. With an increasing discography and growing digital presence, Skilzar represents the future of cross-sector influence—where tech meets tunes.
7. Ayola (Abdullah Abubakre)
Estimated Net Worth: $300,000
Genre: Indie/Folk
Town of Origin: Osun State (Specific town not widely known)
Ayola, born Abdullah Abubakre, is a folk/indie singer based in Canada. His roots are in Osun State, and he combines soft vocals with profound storytelling in his music. His breakout moment came in December 2022 when his song “Sare Toban” went viral on TikTok.
By day, Ayola is a formulation scientist, and by night, he’s a soulful musician gaining traction on global streaming platforms. His music explores themes of love, identity, and migration, making him a unique voice among Osun State’s music ambassadors.
Summary Table: Richest Musicians from Osun State
| Musician | Estimated Net Worth | Genre | Notable Works/Labels | City/Town of Origin |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Davido | $90 million | Afrobeats/Pop | “Fall,” “If,” DMW | Ede |
| Olamide | $15 million | Hip-Hop/Yoruba Rap | “Wo,” “Science Student,” YBNL | Ilesa |
| Eedris Abdulkareem | $1 million | Hip-Hop | “Nigeria Jaga Jaga,” The Remedies | Ilesha |
| DJ Kaywise | $1 million | DJ/Producer | “What Type of Dance,” Kaywise Academy | Ile-Ife |
| Ojo Ade | $500,000 | Gospel | “Jesun To Funmi” | Ikeji Ile |
| Oluwaseun Olaegbe | $500,000 | Afrobeats/Tech | Skilzar Digital CEO, emerging artist | Ifedayo |
| Ayola | $300,000 | Folk/Indie | “Sare Toban,” Canada-based indie artist | Osun State (specific town unknown) |
Conclusion
Osun State has gifted Nigeria—and indeed the world—with an impressive roster of musical talent. These artists span genres, generations, and geographic boundaries. From global giants like Davido and Olamide to genre pioneers like Eedris Abdulkareem and gospel ministers like Ojo Ade, the music scene from Osun is as diverse as it is impactful.
What unites them is a shared cultural lineage steeped in Yoruba tradition and a burning passion for artistic expression. Their journeys offer a compelling narrative of how heritage, talent, and entrepreneurship can combine to create generational wealth and influence.
As music continues to evolve, one thing remains clear—Osun State will always be at the heart of Nigeria’s cultural and musical renaissance.
