Veteran music producer Samklef has ignited industry discourse by asserting that rapper and YBNL boss Olamide has made a more significant impact on Nigeria’s music scene than renowned executive Don Jazzy. Samklef took to social media platform X to argue that Olamide deserves greater respect for transforming the industry landscape.
In his Saturday post, Samklef credited Olamide with dismantling long-standing gatekeeper systems in Nigerian music. The producer made strong claims about Olamide’s influence over Don Jazzy following a controversial Headies Awards incident, stating: “Devil go punish anybody wey talk down on olamide! His impact in the industry even Donjazzy Dey learn.”
“It was Olamide who humble Don Jazzy after that Headies wahala. And broke the chain of the industry gate keepers..Na him make Don Jazzy dey wear this new mask,” Samklef continued. He concluded by asserting: “After Wizkid, na Olamide get the real street credibility.”
Both executives are celebrated for discovering major Nigerian talents. Don Jazzy co-founded Mo’Hits Records, launching careers including Wande Coal and D’Prince. After its dissolution, he established Mavin Records, nurturing stars like Rema, Tiwa Savage, and Ayra Starr.
Olamide’s YBNL label similarly propelled artists including Adekunle Gold, Fireboy DML, and current sensation Asake to stardom. This comparison of their artist development legacies continues to fuel debates about Nigerian music industry influence.
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