Nigerian rapper Zlatan Ibile has shared his unconventional path to music stardom, revealing how academic setbacks became his career catalyst. During an interview with Nandi Madida on Apple Music 1, the artist explained his university dreams ended due to poor grades in Mathematics and Accounting. This unexpected turn led him to discover his musical destiny.
The Meaning Behind ‘Symbol of Hope’
Zlatan’s latest album carries deep personal significance. “I’ve always seen artists as symbols of transformation,” he expressed. “People who rose from nothing to inspire others. Now I’m in that position, receiving messages about how my music gives hope.” The album title reflects this mission. “It’s my way of telling people: ‘If I succeeded, you can too.'”
Humble Musical Beginnings
The artist’s journey started unexpectedly. As a pastor’s son, he played church drums but never envisioned a music career. After his exam failure, he accompanied a friend to a studio. “My first song was rubbish,” Zlatan admitted. “Yet when I played it for my siblings, they made me feel like Jay-Z.” Their encouragement sustained his early efforts.
Life-Changing Rap Competition
Zlatan’s breakthrough came during his first university semester. He entered a rap contest with 140 competitors. “I didn’t believe anyone could win a car through music,” he recalled. To his shock, the 19-year-old emerged victorious just three weeks into school. “That win made me take rap seriously. I wrote lyrics constantly. It transformed everything.”
Creating the Global Zanku Phenomenon
Zlatan also reflected on originating his signature Zanku dance. The acronym stands for “Zlatan Abeg No Kill Us.” He proudly noted, “It represents Africa worldwide. The beauty is my name is inseparable from it. I always dreamed of creating a viral dance move. When Zanku exploded globally, that childhood wish came true.”
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