Renowned Nigerian rapper and YBNL founder Olamide has paid tribute to the late Indigenous rapper Dagrin, acknowledging his lasting influence on his music and on the Nigerian rap scene.
Speaking in a recent video broadcast, Olamide described Dagrin as one of the artists who shaped his artistry and inspired a generation of Yoruba rappers.
The rapper revealed that he still listens to Dagrin’s acclaimed album C.E.O (Chief Executive Omoita) whenever he experiences creative blocks.
“Dagrin’s C.E.O album is a timeless project. That’s the only rap album almost everybody in the South-West can sing word for word,” Olamide said. “He influenced a lot of rappers. Whenever we need motivation, we go back and listen to his album.”
Dagrin, widely celebrated for popularizing Indigenous rap in Nigeria, died in April 2010 following a car accident. His death sent shockwaves through the music industry, but his music has continued to inspire both established and emerging rappers.
Olamide’s tribute adds to the growing recognition of Dagrin’s cultural impact, more than a decade after his passing, reaffirming his place as a pioneer who opened doors for local-language rap in Nigeria.
About the Author
