Naira marley biography

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The track became an unofficial anthem for the Nigerian national football team during the 2018 FIFA World Cup. ​

Rise to Prominence (2019–Present)

In May 2019, Naira Marley released “Am I A Yahoo Boy,” featuring Zlatan, which sparked widespread discussions and led to his arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on fraud-related charges.

Some notable songs include:

  • “Issa Goal” (2017)
  • “Am I A Yahoo Boy?” (2019)
  • “Tesumole” (2019)
  • “Coming” featuring Busiswa (2021)
  • “Ayewada” (2022)

These tracks have garnered millions of streams on platforms like Apple Music, reflecting his widespread appeal.

Controversies Surrounding Naira Marley

Naira Marley is no stranger to controversy.

His life took a transformative turn when he moved to the United Kingdom at age 11, settling in Peckham, South London. This blend of Nigerian and UK culture shaped his unique sound and influenced his fusion of Afrobeat, hip-hop, and grime.

Career Beginnings

He began making music while living in the UK, releasing tracks that resonated with the African community abroad.

His music resonates with the youth, leading to the formation of a dedicated fan base known as “Marlians.” Through Marlian Records, he has provided a platform for emerging artists, contributing to the growth of the Nigerian music industry. While Lagos shaped his love for traditional Nigerian rhythms, London introduced him to grime and UK hip-hop.

and Tori Keeche.

His big break came when he released AM I A Yahoo Boy and he was arrested.

Did you know that Naira Marley is married to two wives and has four kids?

He released the Marry Juana that features Max Twigs before releasing his debut EP Gotta Dance in 2015.

In December 2017, he released the Olamide and Lil Kesh-assisted single Issa Goal, which became the theme song for the Super Eagles at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

The official remix of Issa Goal was released on 16 June 2018 and it features Olamide, Lil Kesh, Falz, Simi and Slimcase. His sound is a mix of Afrobeats, street-hop, and UK grime, giving him a unique edge in the Nigerian music industry.

Recent Highlights

He has released several popular singles and collaborated with major Nigerian artists.

His unapologetic style and connection with street culture made him a voice for many Nigerian youths and earned him a massive following known as “Marlians.”

Musical Style and Influence

Naira Marley is known for his blend of street slang, humor, and controversial themes in his music. He eventually developed an interest in business, a skill that later helped him establish Marlian Records, his music label.

His 2019 arrest by the EFCC for alleged involvement in cyber fraud sparked the viral slogan “Am I A Yahoo Boy?” While the case drew criticism, it also highlighted the intersection of music, culture, and societal issues in Nigeria.

In 2023, he was linked to the death of former signee Ilerioluwa Aloba (Mohbad), with allegations of bullying and exploitation surfacing.

He explored the arts, but his streetwise charisma often stole the show. At Peckham Academy, he graduated with a distinction in business. The track featured his close friend, Zlatan. Growing up in a Yoruba Muslim household, Naira Marley was deeply influenced by his cultural and religious heritage.

Education: Olamide attended primary and secondary school in Lagos before enrolling at Tai Solarin University of Education, where he studied Mass Communication.

naira marley biography

Awards and Recognitions

In January 2020, Naira Marley won the Viewers’ Choice award for “Soapy” at the 2020 Soundcity MVP Awards, highlighting his impact on the African music scene. While he occasionally shares insights into his life and beliefs, he often uses his music as his primary means of expression.

Net Worth

Naira Marley’s net worth is estimated in the multi-million dollar range, coming from music sales, streaming revenue, concerts, endorsements, and his record label, Marlian Music.

Summary

Naira Marley’s journey from Agege to becoming one of Nigeria’s most controversial yet beloved music stars highlights his resilience and originality.

Despite his controversies, he is known as a doting father and family man.

One of the more intriguing facets of his personal life is his unapologetic embrace of the Marlian lifestyle—a carefree, rule-breaking ethos that resonates with his fanbase, the Marlians.

Naira Marley’s Musical Career

The journey from Azeez Fashola to Naira Marley began in earnest in 2014 when he released his debut single, “Marry Juana.” However, before his musical journey, he was nursing the ambition of an MC before he discovered his musical talent, which birthed the Naira Marley brand we now have.

His children live in the United Kingdom. He started his high school education at Porlock Hall and completed it At Walworth School, where he got his GCSE certificate. In December 2017, he gained significant attention with the single “Issa Goal,” featuring Olamide and Lil Kesh. His wealth stems from music sales, performances, endorsements, and investments through Marlian Music.