Ace Nigerian rapper Olamide has revealed the profound influence that late Indigenous rapper Dagrin had on his career and that of many other artists in the Southwest.
Speaking in a recent video broadcast, the YBNL boss admitted that Dagrin’s music, particularly his critically acclaimed album ‘C.E.O’, continues to serve as a source of inspiration, especially during moments of creative block.
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“Dagrin’s ‘C.E.O’ album is a timeless project. That’s the only rap album almost everybody in the Southwest can sing word for word. Dagrin influenced a lot of rappers. Whenever we need motivation, we would go and listen to his album,” Olamide said.
Dagrin, whose real name was Oladapo Olaitan Olaonipekun, tragically passed away in a car accident in April 2010, but his music has remained relevant, inspiring countless artists across Nigeria.
His style, which combined Yoruba language, street slang, and powerful storytelling, revolutionised Indigenous rap and brought it into mainstream consciousness.
Olamide explained that whenever he experiences “writer’s block” or creative fatigue, he turns to Dagrin’s works for motivation. The late rapper’s lyrics, he said, remind him of the roots of Indigenous rap and the dedication required to stay at the top of the game.
“Every time I feel stuck, I listen to ‘C.E.O’ and it pushes me. It’s not just music, it’s a lesson in hustle, creativity, and staying true to your roots,” he added.
Dagrin’s influence on Olamide is evident in the way he blends Yoruba and English in his lyrics, uses street narratives, and champions local culture through music.
The rapper credited Dagrin for inspiring a generation of Indigenous rappers, many of whom continue to shape the Nigerian music industry today.
Since his death, Dagrin’s music has grown in popularity, with songs like “Pon Pon Pon” and “Champion” being considered classics in the Nigerian rap scene.
His posthumous fame has also highlighted the gap he left in the industry, motivating young artists to innovate while keeping his legacy alive.
Olamide, who rose to fame with hits like “Eni Duro” and “Wo!!”, acknowledged that Dagrin’s approach to storytelling and authenticity influenced his own artistic journey.
He said that even established rappers rely on Dagrin’s music as a source of inspiration, showing the depth of his impact on the industry.
“He set a standard that we all still follow. Dagrin’s energy, lyrics, and commitment to his craft taught us a lot about perseverance and originality,” Olamide noted.
The YBNL boss also emphasised the importance of remembering pioneers like Dagrin, whose contributions often go unrecognised by younger audiences.
He encouraged upcoming rappers to study Dagrin’s music not just for entertainment but for understanding the history and evolution of Indigenous rap in Nigeria.
Olamide’s acknowledgement underscores Dagrin’s enduring impact on contemporary Nigerian rap, inspiring both established and emerging artists to push the boundaries of the genre while staying connected to their roots.
As the Nigerian music industry continues to grow globally, the influence of Indigenous rap legends like Dagrin remains a critical pillar, shaping the sound, style, and culture of local music today.
