Why Asake Left YBNL: New Era for Afrobeats Star

In a development that has reverberated through the Nigerian music industry, Afrobeats star Asake has officially parted ways with Olamide’s YBNL Nation, ending a highly successful chapter that catapulted him to international fame.

Asake, born Ahmed Ololade, joined YBNL in February 2022 and swiftly rose to prominence with chart-topping hits like “Omo Ope” and “Sungba.” These tracks dominated Nigerian airwaves and garnered global recognition, solidifying his position as a rising star in Afrobeats. Speculation about his exit gained traction after subtle signs emerged on social media, including removing YBNL from his Instagram bio and unfollowing key figures linked to the label, including Olamide.

Reports on social media platforms suggest that Asake‘s departure followed the expiration of his contract with YBNL. When presented with a renewal offer by Olamide, the artist allegedly chose not to sign, signaling his intention to embark on an independent career or potentially establish his own label. This decision reflects a growing trend among artists seeking greater autonomy and creative control over their music and earnings.

The music community has been abuzz with reactions. While some fans voice concerns about potential implications for Fireboy DML—another marquee artist under YBNL—others view Asake’s decision as a natural progression after achieving significant career milestones, such as selling out the O2 Arena and breaking streaming records with his album Lungu Boy.

Industry observers speculate that Asake’s decision could stem from a desire for contractual freedom, creative differences, or personal reasons, though neither Asake nor Olamide has publicly commented on the matter. Olamide, celebrated for his mentorship and talent development through YBNL, has remained silent, heightening his curiosity about the situation.

From a business perspective, Asake‘s move is seen as a strategic step towards independence, giving him greater control over his music, branding, and financial prospects. However, the independent route is not without challenges, including the demands of self-promotion and the need for a capable team to manage operations such as promotion and distribution.

Olamide’s YBNL has a history of fostering artists who later pursue solo careers, including Lil Kesh and Adekunle Gold. These departures have often been amicable, with collaborations continuing after artists leave the label.

Asake’s exit highlights broader discussions within the music industry about artist-label dynamics, the trade-offs between mentorship and independence, and the evolving global influence of Afrobeats.

Fans and industry stakeholders eagerly anticipate Asake’s next steps. His departure marks a pivotal moment in his career and raises questions about the future trajectory of YBNL Nation under Olamide‘s leadership.