When Wizkid and Asake announced REAL, Vol. 1, expectations were immediate and well anticipated. The collaboration brought together two artists operating at different but equally powerful ends of Afrobeats’ global spectrum; one a decade-long international force, the other one of the most dominant Nigerian hitmakers of the 2020s.
REAL, Vol. 1 has debuted at No. 6 on the Billboard World Albums chart, marking a major global chart moment for the joint EP and reinforcing Afrobeats’ sustained presence on international rankings.
The Billboard World Albums chart tracks the strongest-performing international projects in the United States each week. A Top 10 debut is significant particularly for a short collaborative EP because it reflects not only streaming traction, but real market penetration in one of music’s most competitive territories.
For REAL, Vol. 1 to open at No. 6 places it among the most successful African releases on the chart this year, and highlights the continued global appetite for Nigerian music beyond singles and playlist placements.
Rather than chasing crossover aesthetics, the project leans confidently into its Afrobeats foundation; a choice that appears to be resonating with listeners globally.
Released in January 2026, REAL, Vol. 1 is a concise four-track EP that thrives on chemistry and restraint. Wizkid’s melodic calm and Asake’s gritty, percussive delivery create a contrast that feels intentional rather than forced.
While REAL, Vol. 1 stands on its own, its Billboard entry also fits into a broader narrative around Wizkid’s relationship with the World Albums chart.
Since the release of Made in Lagos in 2020, Wizkid has remained a recurring presence on the chart through various projects, re-entries, and collaborative releases. With REAL, Vol. 1 charting in 2026, Wizkid has now recorded appearances on the Billboard World Albums chart across seven consecutive calendar years; a milestone that underscores his longevity and consistency on the global stage.
While Billboard does not always publish consolidated year-by-year streak summaries, the pattern of Wizkid’s chart activity across these years is well-documented through individual chart entries and reappearances.
For Asake, the EP adds another global credential to an already dominant run.
As African artists continue to chart, tour, and collaborate at global scale, releases like REAL, Vol. 1 feel less like exceptions and more like markers of a maturing ecosystem.
Asake has added another historic achievement to his already impressive run, becoming the first Nigerian artist to have four separate projects simultaneously ranked inside the Apple Music Nigeria Top 10 albums chart.
The milestone highlights not just the success of his latest release, but the continued popularity of his entire catalogue, proving his music isn’t just trending; it’s lasting.
According to the latest Apple Music Nigeria rankings, Asake occupies four spots in the Top 10:
#1 — REAL
#6 — Work of Art
#8 — Mr. Money With The Vibe
#9 — Lungu Boy
Holding the No. 1 album while three previous projects also remain in heavy rotation shows how deeply his music continues to resonate with listeners across Nigeria.
What makes this moment significant is that the albums span different phases of Asake’s career.
Mr. Money With The Vibe introduced him as a disruptive new voice in Afrobeats. Work of Art followed with global hits that confirmed his staying power. Lungu Boy expanded his sound while keeping his street-pop appeal intact.
Now, REAL ft Wizkid sits at the top of the chart, driving renewed interest in his earlier work and pushing multiple projects back into the streaming spotlight.
Few artists manage to dominate charts with both new and older projects at the same time; a sign of catalogue strength rather than just release-week hype.
Asake’s rise since his breakout under YBNL has been defined by consistency. His fusion of Afrobeats, amapiano bounce, Fuji influences, and street-ready hooks has helped him maintain a strong connection with listeners.
The current chart performance suggests fans are not only consuming new music but also revisiting past albums, keeping them competitive against newer releases from other artists.
In just a few years, Asake has gone from breakout act to one of the most commercially dominant artists in Nigerian music. This latest Apple Music record further strengthens his position as one of the defining artists of his generation.
With REAL currently leading the charts and his catalogue still thriving, the bigger question now is how long his multi-album dominance will last and what record he breaks next.
For now, one thing is clear: Asake owns the moment on Nigeria’s streaming charts.
The 2026 Afro Nation Festival has officially confirmed its headliners, and Nigerian music fans have plenty to celebrate. Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Asake are set to take the stage at one of the world’s biggest Afrobeats festivals, scheduled to take place from July 3 to 5 at the scenic Praia Da Rocha Beach in Portimão, Portugal.
Now in its fifth year in Portugal, Afro Nation has grown into a global cultural event, attracting music lovers from across Africa, Europe, and beyond. The festival is celebrated for bringing together Afrobeats, R&B, dancehall, and amapiano in one vibrant, sun-soaked beach setting.
This year’s lineup is a major win for fans of Nigerian music. Wizkid, one of Afrobeats’ biggest international stars, is expected to deliver a show-stopping performance. Known for hits like Essence and Morayo, Wizkid has solidified his place as a global ambassador for Afrobeats, and his presence at Afro Nation only adds to the festival’s star power.
Burna Boy, the “African Giant,” also joins the headliners. Burna Boy’s signature Afro-fusion sound and high-energy performances have made him a must-watch act at festivals worldwide. His inclusion is a testament to Afro Nation’s commitment to showcasing Africa’s top talent on the international stage.
Rising star Asake rounds out the Nigerian headliners. With multiple chart-topping hits and a growing international following, Asake is quickly becoming one of the most streamed artists in Afrobeats. His performances are known for their infectious energy, making him a perfect fit for the festival’s beach-party vibes.
While Nigerian artists lead the bill, Afro Nation 2026 promises an eclectic mix of performers from around the world. South African sensation Tyla, American rapper Gunna, and R&B star Kehlani are among the confirmed acts. Other notable performers include Olamide, Young Jonn, Darkoo, Bien, Niska, and Djodje, as well as Uncle Waffles on the dedicated Amapiano stage.
The festival’s lineup spans multiple genres, ensuring there’s something for every music lover. From Afrobeat rhythms to dancehall grooves, R&B vibes, and amapiano beats, Afro Nation continues to offer a truly global festival experience.
For Nigerian music fans, this is an opportunity to see some of the country’s biggest stars in one place, performing live alongside international talent. With Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Asake leading the charge, Afro Nation 2026 promises to be one of the most unforgettable editions yet.
Wizkid and Asake are commanding attention far beyond local borders as their collaboration, “Turbulence,” makes an immediate impact on the global stage.
The song has debuted at No. 2 on the Spotify Top Songs Debut Global chart, ranking as one of the most streamed new releases worldwide during its opening tracking period. The strong entry highlights the growing global demand for Afrobeats and reinforces both artists’ positions as international streaming forces.
Turbulence is not the only song gaining traction globally. Two other tracks, “Alaye” and “Iskolodo,” also debuted on the Spotify Top Songs Debut Global chart at No. 6 and No. 8 respectively.
Having three songs debut simultaneously within the global top ten reflects a high level of listener engagement across multiple regions and platforms. It also signals the expanding reach of Nigerian music beyond Africa and into key international markets.
Wizkid’s continued presence on global charts further cements his legacy as one of Afrobeats’ most influential exports. His music consistently resonates with audiences across Europe, North America, and other parts of the world, years after his initial global breakthrough.
Asake’s rise has been equally remarkable. With back-to-back charting releases and strong streaming numbers, he has become one of the most listened-to African artists globally, representing a new generation of Afrobeats acts dominating digital platforms.
The global chart performance of Turbulence, Alaye, and Iskolodo is another clear indicator that Afrobeats has evolved into a truly global genre. Rather than crossing over occasionally, Nigerian artists are now debuting at the top end of worldwide charts alongside established international stars.
As streaming continues to shape global music consumption, milestones like this point to Afrobeats’ growing influence and staying power on the world stage.
Turbulence also debuted at No. 6 on the Spotify Top Songs Debut USA chart, further underlining its strong international reception.
Afrobeats heavyweights Wizkid and Asake have officially released their highly anticipated collaborative project, REAL, Vol. 1, marking one of the most significant joint releases in Nigerian music in recent years.
The four-track EP brings together two of Africa’s most dominant hitmakers, blending Wizkid’s smooth, global Afrobeats sound with Asake’s raw, street-rooted energy
REAL, Vol. 1 is a compact but tightly curated EP that showcases both artists at their most confident. The project features the following tracks:
Turbulence
Jogodo
Iskolodo
Alaye
Screenshot
Rather than chasing trends, the EP leans into rhythm, melody, and atmosphere staying true to the distinct identities that have made Wizkid and Asake two of the most streamed African artists of the past decade.
“Jogodo” Sets the Tone for the Project
Leading the EP is “Jogodo,” the breakout single that had already ignited massive attention ahead of the project’s full release. Since dropping, the song has gone on to deliver one of the biggest commercial performances for a Nigerian collaboration in recent memory.
“Jogodo” recorded a historic debut on Spotify Nigeria, pulling in over 1.3 million streams within its first 24 hours, making it the biggest opening day ever for a collaborative track on the platform. The momentum didn’t slow down, as the record crossed 5 million streams within its first week, setting a new benchmark for weekly streaming in Nigeria.
Beyond streaming numbers, “Jogodo” quickly asserted its dominance across major platforms:
The track reached No. 1 on Apple Music Nigeria and Spotify Nigeria, maintaining a strong daily streaming pace.
Internationally, “Jogodo” entered the Spotify Global Daily Top 100, signalling growing global interest beyond Africa.
The song also gained traction on global Shazam charts, highlighting organic discovery outside its core market.
Wizkid, one of Afrobeats’ most influential global figures, and Asake, arguably the genre’s most disruptive force of the last three years, have aligned at the peak of their powers.
With “Jogodo” already setting records and the EP now fully available, REAL, Vol. 1 is expected to dominate conversations, playlists, and charts in the coming weeks further reinforcing Afrobeats’ global momentum in 2026.
Nigerian superstars Wizkid and Asake officially kick off their first joint project with the release of “Jogodo”, the lead single from their upcoming EP titled REAL (Vol. 1). Set to drop on January 23, 2026, this collaboration marks a historic moment in the Nigerian music scene, bringing together two of the country’s most influential artists.
The announcement has sparked excitement across social media, with fans praising the chemistry between Wizkid’s smooth Afropop sound and Asake’s energetic street‑influenced rhythms.
“Jogodo” is the first taste of what listeners can expect from the joint EP. The track blends Asake’s rhythmic, chant-heavy style with Wizkid’s signature smooth vocals, creating a unique sound that is both catchy and culturally resonant.
The song has already started trending on streaming platforms, currently ranking at No. 7 Apple Music NG proving that fans are eager for more from the duo.
It’s a high-energy track that perfectly captures the strengths of both artists, giving a glimpse into the direction of REAL (Vol. 1)
About the EP: REAL (Vol. 1)
The full EP, REAL (Vol. 1), will feature multiple tracks highlighting the duo’s distinct musical styles. The project is expected to combine street-inspired Afrobeat grooves with global pop elements, appealing to both Nigerian and international audiences.
This marks the first full-length collaborative EP between Wizkid and Asake, building on previous successful features like Asake on Wizkid’s Morayo album (“Bad Girl”) and Wizkid on Asake’s 2024 hit “MMS.” These past collaborations set the stage for a deeper and more cohesive project.
Wizkid has been a global Afrobeats ambassador for over a decade, known for hits like Essence, Ojuelegba, and his latest Morayo album. His collaborations with international artists have helped bring Nigerian music to a worldwide audience.
Asake, on the other hand, has quickly risen to become one of Nigeria’s most exciting acts, known for his energetic delivery and street-to-mainstream appeal. With hits like Omo Ope and MMS, Asake has solidified his position as a rising star with a unique sound that complements Wizkid’s style.
Fan Reactions
The release of “Jogodo” has already dominated Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram, with fans sharing clips, reactions, and remixes. Some have even called it the “collaboration of the year”, highlighting the seamless synergy between the two artists.
With the EP’s release just days away, fans can expect more chart-topping singles and innovative Afrobeats sounds. “Jogodo” sets the tone for an exciting project that merges global pop sensibilities with Nigerian street energy.
This article is part of our weekly #OpinionPiece series. Today, we deviate slightly from our schedule to celebrate the birthday of a modern legend, Asake.
Introduction
This is a special edition of our series! Today, January 13, 2026, marks the 31st birthday of the man who redefined the speed of success in the Nigerian music industry: Asake (Ahmed Ololade).
To celebrate “Mr. Money,” we are diving into his journey from the “Lungu” streets of Lagos to the global arenas and looking at the pivotal moves he has made in just the last few months.
Today, the 13th of January 2026, the “Lungu Boy” himself turns 31. Just four years ago, many of us were just learning his name through “Omo Ope.” Today, it is impossible to discuss the global lifestyle of Afrobeats without mentioning his name.
In my opinion, Asake is not just a musician; he is a cultural movement. While 2022 and 2023 were about his “lightning fast” rise, I believe 2025 and the start of 2026 have shown us a more mature, independent, and grounded version of the artist.
The Career Highlights
Asake’s career trajectory is, factually, one of the most successful in African history. He achieved what few thought possible; three consecutive #1 albums in Nigeria.
From Mr. Money with the Vibe (2022) to Work of Art (2023) and finally Lungu Boy (2024), which became the longest-running #1 album in Nigerian chart history.
In 2024 and 2025, he successfully headlined the world’s most iconic stages, including Madison Square Garden and the O2 Arena, proving that his “Street-Pop” sound had no borders.
Beyond winning the Best African Act at the 2024 MOBO Awards, his 2025 Grammy nomination for “MMS” (with Wizkid) solidified his status as an elite global collaborator.
The Birth of Giran Republic
Choosing independence is one of the most significant lifestyle and business moves Asake made as he departed from YBNL Nation in early 2025.
In February 2025, Asake officially launched his independent label, Giran Republic. This marked his transition from being a “star under Olamide” to becoming a CEO and mogul in his own right.
Opinion Piece: I see this as a bold lifestyle statement. In an industry where artists often fear leaving the nest of a major label, Asake chose the “Giran” path. It showed his fans that true success is about eventually owning your platform.
The 2026 Milestone: Family and Reconciliation
Few weeks ago before his 31st birthday, Asake made headlines for something more personal than music: healing his home.
Following public accusations in 2025 regarding neglect of his family, January 9–10, 2026, saw a major turnaround. Asake publicly reunited and reconciled with his father (Fatai Odunsi), his daughter, and his baby mama. He reportedly pledged to finance his father’s medical bills and purchase a new home for him. He also paid a visit to his Alma mater where he was welcomed by students and authorities of the school.
Opinion Piece: I believe this is his most important “win” yet. At 31, Asake is showing that being “Mr. Money” is empty if your foundation isn’t solid. This reconciliation shows a man maturing beyond the fast-paced fame of his 20s.
The Fashion Oracle: Defining the Gen Z Look
Asake’s lifestyle influence on Gen Z fashion remains unparalleled.
From his Paris Fashion Week appearances (showcasing Marine Serre and Off-White) to his signature baggy trousers and eclectic grills, he has made “quirky-cool” the standard.
Opinion Piece: He taught a generation that you don’t have to look like a traditional “gentleman” to be taken seriously in global luxury and it’s also okay to try out different styles until you probably understand what works best for you.
Even though I can’t really say if this current look of his would be his last change, we can all agree his styles are interesting. His fashion is a mix of Lagos “Lungu” (slum/street) energy and high-end couture. It’s an “unbothered” lifestyle that resonates with millions.
Starting 2026 on a High: The Goldrush Dome
Asake didn’t wait long to dominate 2026. Just ten days ago, on January 3, 2026, he shut down the 10,000-capacity Goldrush Dome in Johannesburg, South Africa.
His album, Mr. Money with the Vibe, has also surpassed 800 million streams on Spotify, entering the top 10 Nigerian projects on the platform.
This was his first-ever headline show in South Africa, a market that has deeply influenced his sound (through Amapiano).
Opinion Piece: By starting the year this way, he is signaling that 2026 will be another year where we will have more of Asake because his impact is just beginning.
As we celebrate Asake today, we aren’t just celebrating hit songs like “Lonely at the Top” or “Mentally.” We are celebrating the evolution of a man.
From the theatre student at OAU to the CEO of Giran Republic, Asake’s 31st birthday represents a transition from “The Next Big Thing” to a stable, independent, and family-oriented icon.
Happy Birthday, Ololade Mr. Money. The world is still watching.
Who should be our next feature for the #OpinionPiece series? Drop your comment below!
Asake is officially a streaming powerhouse. His 2022 album, Mr. Money With The Vibe, has now crossed 800 million streams on Spotify, making it the 9th most streamed Nigerian project of all time and remarkably, this is Asake’s first entry into the all-time top 10.
The album’s infectious blend of Afrobeat, street-pop, and Amapiano-inspired sounds has kept fans hooked since its release. Standout tracks like “Omo Ope,” “Peace Be Unto You (PBUY),” and “Terminator” have dominated playlists, TikTok trends, and social media buzz, driving the album to this historic milestone.
This achievement places Asake alongside Nigeria’s streaming elite, joining artists like Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido, and Olamide. Beyond numbers, it’s a testament to his ability to craft hits that resonate both locally and globally, proving that contemporary Nigerian music continues to thrive on the world stage.
With this milestone, Asake demonstrates that originality, consistency, and fan connection remain the ultimate formula for success in today’s streaming era.
The Nigerian superstar’s project, Lungu Boy, has officially surpassed 350 million streams on Audiomack, marking another major milestone in his fast-rising career.
This achievement makes Lungu Boy Asake’s second project to cross the 350 million streams mark on the platform, further reinforcing his strong connection with Audiomack’s core audience across Africa and the diaspora.
Since his breakout, Asake has remained one of the most-streamed Nigerian artists on Audiomack, a platform known for amplifying Afrobeats and street-pop sounds. His projects have consistently pulled massive numbers, driven by replay value, viral hits, and a loyal fan base.
Lungu Boy joins an exclusive group of highly streamed African projects on Audiomack, highlighting Asake’s ability to sustain momentum beyond singles and deliver full bodies of work that resonate deeply with listeners.
Crossing 350 million streams on Audiomack is not just a number, it reflects Asake’s staying power in a highly competitive era of Nigerian music. With multiple records already broken and more milestones likely ahead, the singer continues to position himself as one of Afrobeats’ most reliable hitmakers.
As streaming numbers keep climbing across platforms, Lungu Boy stands as another reminder of Asake’s impact and consistency in the global Afrobeats movement.
Barack Obama’s annual favorite music list has become a cultural moment of its own. Every year, the former U.S. president shares songs he enjoyed the most, cutting across genres, generations, and continents.
In 2025, the list once again proved how global modern music has become and Nigeria stood tall once again.
Asake, Burna Boy, and Olamidé all earned spots on Obama’s favorite music list this year, reinforcing Afrobeats’ growing influence on the world’s biggest cultural stages.
Afrobeats’ Strong Presence on a Global Playlist
Obama’s music lists are not charts or awards. They are personal playlists that reflect what he listens to and enjoys. That’s what makes them powerful.
So, when Nigerian artists appear, it signals something deeper than popularity; it shows cultural relevance.
This year’s list included:
Burna Boy with Tatata (featuring Travis Scott)
Olamidé, Asake, Seyi Vibez, Daecolm, and Young Jonn on 99
These selections placed Nigerian street pop and Afrofusion side-by-side with global pop, hip-hop, indie, and jazz records.
Burna Boy’s appearance on the list comes as no surprise. Over the years, he has built a reputation as one of Africa’s most consistent global exports.
Tatata, his collaboration with Travis Scott, blends Afrofusion rhythms with international rap energy. Its inclusion reflects how Burna Boy continues to operate comfortably at the intersection of African identity and global appeal.
Perhaps the most significant moment on the list is the inclusion of 99; a song deeply rooted in Nigerian street pop culture.
Led by Olamidé and Asake, alongside Seyi Vibez, Daecolm, and Young Jonn, 99 represents a raw, energetic Lagos sound. It is the kind of song born from the streets, clubs, and everyday experiences of Nigerian youth.
Seeing it land on a playlist curated by a former U.S. president speaks volumes.
Olamidé’s role as a culture driver and Asake’s rise as one of Afrobeats’ most exciting modern stars come together on this track.
Barack Obama’s favorite music lists have always served as a snapshot of the year’s cultural mood. In 2025, that snapshot clearly includes Nigeria.
For Asake, Burna Boy, and Olamidé, making the list is not just a personal win; it’s another moment of validation for Nigerian music as a global force.
