[Flashback] How Wizkid Emerged Next Rated Ahead of Olamide

Wizkid and Olamide went head-to-head in 2011 for the next rated award. We examine what worked in favour for Wizkid.

2011. Wizkid was on a wave. Holla At Your Boy, his debut single, had been released in 2010 in what will officially introduce him to the music industry. From there, everyone became aware of the diminutive kid with such delightful vocals and this excitement when he sings.

THE PLAN

The activation plan was to introduce him to a youth-based audience of his age group with mainly singles then visuals to some of the already released singles. The plan will culminate in a full-length album – Superstar.

This promotional plan was what the other nominees in the Next Rated category with Wizkid lacked. Wizkid even held an album listening party, and yeah, it confirmed the album as a high-quality album. Well received, the critical reception about the album was great.

And so when Wizkid was nominated alongside Olamide, Tiwa Savage, Ice Prince, everyone tipped the battle to be between Wizkid and Olamide as they were the two most in-form new artists at that period.

POWER OF A FANBASE

However, one of the reasons why Wizkid edged Olamide that night was because Wizkid was already growing an audience with the release of his singles and then his album.

They were needed at this point where the winner of the category was going to be determined by votes and jury selection.

Besides, Wizkid’s album had an impact. Both on people who listened and the music industry at that point. Olamide’s Rapsodi lacked a sufficient number of hits, which Wizkid, on the other hand, had in bulk. Meaning his songs enjoyed more radio spins and more concert invites.

At the time when the award held, he was the rave of the moment.

These are two of the reasons why Wizkid won the next rated award.

But In Your Opinion, Who Deserved That Award At That Time?

Wizkid Or Olamide?

Drop your comments.........