Nigerian rap icon Olamide has paid tribute to the late Indigenous rapper Dagrin, acknowledging the profound impact he had on his career and on Nigerian hip-hop as a whole.
In a recent video broadcast, the YBNL founder reflected on Dagrin’s enduring influence, describing his 2009 album C.E.O (Chief Executive Omoita) as a “timeless project” that continues to inspire artists today.
Olamide revealed that he often revisits the album whenever he faces creative challenges.
“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,” he said. “Dagrin influenced a lot of rappers. Whenever we need motivation, we listen to his album.”
Dagrin, who was widely regarded as one of the pioneers of Yoruba rap, tragically passed away in a car accident in April 2010. His death sent shockwaves through the music industry, but his legacy has continued to shape the sound and identity of Indigenous rap in Nigeria.
More than a decade later, artists like Olamide still credit Dagrin’s artistry as a cornerstone of Nigerian hip-hop culture.
