I once booked him on MTV Canada and now Wizkid is pretty much the biggest thing in Nigerian pop, which itself seems to advance on the global music stage almost as quickly as the country’s economy, one of the fastest growing in the world. He scored a massive smash last year with “Ojuelegba,” an insatiable rags-to-riches hit with a shoulder-shrugging Afrobeat, which inspired Drake to jump on a remix (the two linked up after expressing mutual admiration over Instagram). “Ojuelegba” is prime and perfect Afropop, characterized by a shuffling, whistling charisma, an elegant rhythm, and a message of positivity and parties. It is distinctly Nigerian, yes, but also—in the way that all songs that worm their way around the world are—an inspirational anthem for many.
Wizkid, who at 25 years old already adorns Pepsi ads in his native country, has become almost as known for his trendsetting style as his sound, and his is a thoughtful and fun approach to wardrobe: clean lines and minimalism; a mix of fresh streetwear with traditional Nigerian clothes; and bold, bright accessories. When we Skype, he has paired a tunic tailored in his hometown of Lagos with a loose sweatshirt and big, bulky sneakers, an outfit that epitomizes his blend of the local and universal. In Lagos, he is so famous he can hardly walk around without being mobbed by fans, but in London, where he is currently finishing an EP, he enjoys the relative anonymity the city affords him, particularly because it allows him to partake in one of his favorite hobbies: shopping. Here, we discuss style with one of Africa’s biggest stars.
With files from Vogue Magazine
