Veteran music producer Samklef has declared that rapper and YBNL boss Olamide has had a more significant influence on the Nigerian music scene than celebrated music executive Don Jazzy.
Samklef made the statement while responding to criticism aimed at Olamide for calling Wizkid “the greatest Afrobeats artist after Fela.” He condemned those criticizing Olamide, suggesting they were overlooking his substantial contributions to the industry.
According to Samklef, Olamide deserves recognition for reshaping the Nigerian music landscape and breaking the hold of traditional gatekeepers.
On his X account, he posted:
“Devil go punish anybody wey talk down on Olamide! Even Don Jazzy dey learn from his impact.
Olamide humbled Don Jazzy after that Headies incident and disrupted the chain of industry gatekeepers. Na him make Don Jazzy dey wear this new mask.
After Wizkid, na Olamide get the real street credibility.”
Both Don Jazzy and Olamide are recognized as two of Nigeria’s most influential music executives, thanks to the number of artists they have successfully developed under their labels.
Don Jazzy played a key role in the rise of Wande Coal, D’Prince, Dr Sid, and others through the now-defunct Mo’Hits Records, which he co-owned with D’banj. Following the split of Mo’Hits, he founded Mavin Records, which has launched stars like Tiwa Savage, Reekado Banks, Korede Bello, Johnny Drille, Rema, and Ayra Starr.
Meanwhile, Olamide has used his YBNL label to nurture talents such as Adekunle Gold, Lil Kesh, Fireboy DML, Asake, and many more.