City University in his second year, not a few thought he made the
wrong decision.
Although he chose to follow the music path, the artiste, whose real
name is Ayo Balogun, does not underestimate the importance of
education.
''I don't regret stopping school for a bit because it did give me all
the time to push and work on my music. I'm definitely going back to
school. Education is very necessary and I hold it in high esteem.''
Just three years down the line, the 22-year-old-singer who fathered
his first child with a fan last year, constantly rakes millions of
bucks from gigs, world tours and album sales. Sounding every bit
prophetical, Wizkid confesses that he foresaw he was going to be a
successful singer.
"Yes I had hoped and dreamt for all this, but I didn't expect it would
happen this fast. I am 22 and I owe all my achievements to God. Yes I
am oftentimes overwhelmed by all I have achieved at my age and I stay
grateful because it keeps me going.''
When he launched his debut album in front of a capacity-filled hall at
the Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, in August last year the young singer,
fondly called Wizzy, made history by becoming the youngest Nigerian
artiste to attract such a crowd to an album launch. That moment he
says, remains a career moment.
"I am always humbled and excited to perform with artistes I grew up
listening to.I am constantly overwhelmed.
"Performing at the HMV Apollo was an amazing experience for me.
Winning a MOBO, BET, Channel O award and the MTV Europe nomination
have definitely been highpoints.''
Up until the emergence of a rival singer, Davido, Wizkid held sway in
his class. Now facing competition from Omo Baba Olowo, he says he
never ever gets threatened.
"All the stories of beef and quarell between both of us are mere
rumours. Davido is my friend and I respect him.I don't consider him a
threat. We both make good music that people love.''
The female fans can no doubt have enough of the young singer who says
he knows where to draw the line.
Amidst laughter, he says, "I love all my fans, male and female. I try
to show my appreciation anyway I can.
"I am thankful for where I am today and I'm excited about what's
coming next for me. I respect and look up to my bros, Banky W, D'Banj
and 2face."
Wizkid no doubt, has a bright future and will not be quitting music
anytime soon.
"Music is my life, I can't stop making music but if I wasn't, maybe
I'd be a football player.''
On how he would love to be remembered, he keeps it simple. "As a man
who never gave up on his dreams and succeeded at everything he worked
hard to accomplish."