By Ghazali Ibrahim
With the announcement of his new self-titled album, Olamide has joined a distinguished list of Nigerian artistes who have released eponymous albums.
Eponymous albums are works that bear artist’s own names as titles, often serving as deeply personal or defining statements in their careers.
The YBNL boss, whose influence has shaped Nigerian hip hop and Afropop for over a decade, now follows the path of several acclaimed acts who have used self-titled albums to reflect artistic evolution or introduce new dimensions of their sound and identity.
BlackBox Nigeria curates list of some notable Nigerian artistes who have released eponymous albums:
Asa – Asa (Asha)
The debut album by Asa was not only self-titled but also a cultural reset released in 2007. Combining soul, jazz, and Afrobeat influences, the record introduced her as a poetic and introspective voice in Nigerian music. Songs like “Jailer” and “Fire on the Mountain” cemented her place as a globally respected singer-songwriter.
Simi – Simisola
Award winning Afrobeats Singer Simi also joined the list of artist who produce eponymous albums in 2017. Though a slight variation, Simi’s Simisola was a self-titled project that announced her transition from up-and-coming artist to mainstream star.
The album blended Afro-pop, highlife, and R\&B, with standout tracks like “Joromi” and “Smile for Me.”
Chidinma – Chidinma
Fresh off her MTN Project Fame West Africa win, Chidinma released her debut album bearing her name in 2012.
The record, powered by the hit single “Kedike,” was a declaration of her presence and promise in the Nigerian music scene.
Flavour – N’abania
While not strictly titled “Flavour,” the project was clearly a self-referential work, celebrating the artist’s Igbo roots, musical versatility, and pan-African appeal. The album released in 2020 named Flavour of Africa was an embodiments of his artistry skills in shaping Afrobeats generally.
It reflected Flavour’s commitment to his signature highlife sound while showcasing his range as a performer.
Fireboy DML – Adedamola
In a bold move, Fireboy named his 2024 album after his birth name, Adedamola, marking a moment of personal introspection and maturity. The project explored themes of identity, growth, and vulnerability, further setting him apart as a genre-defying artist.
Femi Kuti – Femi Kuti
Afrobeat heir and activist Femi Kuti released a self-titled album in the mid-90s that firmly established him as a global musical force in his own right, while honouring the legacy of his father, Fela Kuti.
Femi Kuti is the third album by Nigerian musician Femi Kuti released on 13 June 1995.
It was released on Motown’s Tabu Records label.The album introduced Femi Kuti and afrobeat to an international audience.
Wizkid – Ayo
Wizkid’s sophomore album Ayo—which means “joy” in Yoruba and is also the artiste’s given name released in 2014 was a celebration of his rise in the music industry. With hits like “Ojuelegba” and “Show You the Money,” the album captured both his roots and growing global ambition.
Burna Boy – Love, Damini
While not directly self-titled, Love, Damini is named after Burna Boy’s real name (Damini Ogulu) and stands as his most introspective album yet.
Released shortly after his 30th birthday, the Grammy winner used the album to reflect on fame, loss, growth, and identity while cementing his global dominance.
Lagbaja – Lagbaja
The masked musical philosopher’s debut album (Lagbaja) in 1993 which is the second album set the foundation for his powerful fusion of Afrobeat, jazz, and traditional Yoruba music. His self-titled project introduced audiences to his unique voice and message-driven style.
Now, with Olamide preparing releasing an album titled simply Olamide, fans are speculating that the record will serve as a powerful statement, possibly a culmination of his musical journey, a personal reinvention, or both.
For an artist whose name has become synonymous with consistency and street credibility, an eponymous album feels like a victory lap and perhaps a reminder of the brand he built from the ground up.
As Nigerian music continues to gain global prominence, these self-titled albums offer an intimate look into the identities behind the sounds, providing both a personal touch and a lasting legacy.
