Baddo’s Back! Olamide Unleashes Star-Studded Album Featuring Wizkid and Dr. Dre

Music fam! Have you caught the buzz reverberating through the airwaves and across our timelines? If you’re plugged into the Nigerian music scene, or indeed, the global soundscape, you’re probably already feeling the tremors. The king of indigenous rap and YBNL Nation boss, Olamide Adedeji – our very own Baddo – has just dropped a bombshell that has everyone talking: the tracklist for his highly anticipated 11th studio album, simply titled “OLAMIDÉ”. And trust me, this isn’t just another album; it’s a global statement!

Scheduled for release on Thursday, June 19, 2025, this project isn’t just about Olamide’s enduring legacy (which is impressive enough on its own, spanning over a decade!). It’s about breaking new ground, bridging continents, and bringing together a truly phenomenal cast of musical giants. The biggest reveal, of course, is the inclusion of none other than Nigerian megastar Wizkid and, in a jaw-dropping move, legendary American hip-hop icon and super-producer Dr. Dre!

Grab your headphones, let’s dive into what makes this album so incredibly exciting and why it’s poised to be a landmark release in African music history.

The Return of the Dynamic Duo: Olamide & Wizkid

Let’s start with a collaboration that’s already got fans in a frenzy. Olamide and Wizkid. These two names are etched into the fabric of modern Nigerian music. Their last major link-up, “Omo To Shan” back in 2011, was an anthem that launched them both into superstardom and has remained a classic. For years, fans have yearned for another joint effort that carries that same magic.

Well, the wait is over, and it’s doubly sweet! Wizkid isn’t just on one track; he’s featured on two songs on “OLAMIDÉ”: “Kai” (which was actually a pre-release single that already charted in Nigeria and the US, giving us a taste of what’s to come!) and “Billionaires Club,” where he also joins forces with UK-Nigerian artist Darkoo. This reunion isn’t just a nostalgic nod; it’s a powerful affirmation of their enduring creative chemistry and mutual respect.

Think about it: Olamide, the street-hop maestro known for his raw energy and lyrical prowess, linking up with Wizkid, the global Afrobeats ambassador who has sold out arenas and racked up Grammy nominations. Their combined star power on a single project promises a blend of street credibility, Afrobeats finesse, and global appeal that few other collaborations can deliver. It’s a testament to their individual evolutions while showcasing that undeniable spark they share.

The Shockwave: Dr. Dre Joins the African Rhythm

Now, for the headline-grabber, the collaboration that sent shockwaves through the industry: Dr. Dre. Yes, that Dr. Dre. The architect of G-Funk, the man behind classics like “The Chronic” and “2001,” the producer who shaped the careers of legends like Snoop Dogg and Eminem. To see his name on an Olamide tracklist is nothing short of a monumental moment for African music.

Dr. Dre will feature on a track titled “Indika,” alongside Nigerian DJ Spinall. This isn’t just a feature; it’s a powerful symbol of the growing globalization of Afrobeats and Nigerian music. For an artist of Dr. Dre’s caliber and influence to lend his expertise and presence to an African album speaks volumes. It signals a recognition of the quality, global impact, and undeniable talent emanating from the continent.

What can we expect from this collaboration? Dr. Dre is known for his meticulous production, his signature deep basslines, crisp drums, and layered soundscapes. How will his legendary G-Funk production style blend with Olamide’s unique street-hop and Afrobeats fusion? This is the kind of cross-genre, cross-continental experimentation that can truly push musical boundaries and create something entirely fresh and groundbreaking. “Indika” is already generating immense curiosity, and it’s poised to be one of the album’s most talked-about tracks. It’s a moment that could potentially open even more doors for Nigerian artists on the global hip-hop stage.

Beyond the Headliners: A Galaxy of Stars

While Wizkid and Dr. Dre are undoubtedly the marquee names, “OLAMIDÉ” is packed with an impressive array of talent, showcasing Olamide’s role not just as an artist, but as a visionary curator and talent incubator through his YBNL Nation imprint.

The 17-track project features a diverse roster of artists that highlights both his deep roots in the Nigerian sound and his expansive global reach:

• YBNL Powerhouses: Get ready for more magic from Asake and Seyi Vibez, both of whom feature prominently, especially on the powerful ensemble track “99” (which also features Young Jonn and Daecolm, and was another pre-release single). This reunion with Asake, especially, is significant, amidst recent speculation about his departure from YBNL, suggesting a continued strong professional bond.
• Nigerian Hitmakers: Expect more fire from Young Jonn (who also has a feature) and BOJ (“Stronger”).
• International Flavors: Alongside Dr. Dre, the album boasts Jamaican dancehall superstar Popcaan on “Rain,” adding another layer of global appeal. British-Nigerian artist Darkoo joins Wizkid on “Billionaires Club,” showcasing a blend of UK and Afrobeats influences. Rising talents like Muyeez, Fxrtune, and Fadi also make appearances, reaffirming Olamide’s commitment to nurturing new voices.

This diverse lineup suggests an album that will be a rich tapestry of sounds – from Olamide’s signature street-hop grit to smooth Afrobeats, dancehall rhythms, and global hip-hop flair. It’s a testament to his versatility and his ability to seamlessly blend different genres while maintaining his authentic sound.

The Legacy Continues: Olamide’s Enduring Relevance

“OLAMIDÉ” marks Olamide’s 11th solo studio album, a remarkable feat in itself. In an industry where artists often struggle to maintain relevance for more than a few years, Olamide has consistently evolved, innovated, and delivered hits for over a decade. His discography is a testament to his longevity, consistency, and profound impact on African music.

He’s not just an artist; he’s a trailblazer. Through YBNL Nation, he has discovered and propelled numerous stars to fame, including Adekunle Gold, Lil Kesh, Fireboy DML, and the current sensation, Asake. This album further cements his role as a kingmaker and a tastemaker. His continued commitment to featuring both established stars and emerging talents on his projects is a unique aspect of his artistry and leadership in the industry.

The pre-release hype for “OLAMIDÉ” has been immense. “Kai!” with Wizkid and “99” (with Asake, Seyi Vibez, Young Jonn, and Daecolm) have already given fans a taste of the album’s quality and range, garnering significant streams and charting success.

As Olamide himself shared on Instagram, expressing gratitude to everyone involved, “#OLAMIDÉ Out 19th of June. Wabillahi Taofeek.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the collective effort behind such a monumental project.

What This Album Means for African Music

The release of “OLAMIDÉ” with its incredible roster of features, particularly the Dr. Dre collaboration, isn’t just about Olamide; it’s a huge win for African music as a whole.

• Global Validation: It further validates Afrobeats and Nigerian hip-hop on the global stage, demonstrating that African artists can seamlessly collaborate with the biggest names in international music without compromising their authenticity.
• Breaking Barriers: Dr. Dre’s involvement could open more doors for cross-continental collaborations, inspiring other major American and international artists to look to Africa for fresh sounds and partnerships.
• Artistic Evolution: It encourages artistic experimentation and pushes the boundaries of what Afrobeats and Nigerian hip-hop can sound like, potentially inspiring a new wave of innovative music.
• Increased Visibility: The album will undoubtedly attract immense global attention, shining a brighter spotlight on the entire Nigerian music industry and its vibrant ecosystem.

So, as we count down the hours to June 19th, the anticipation is electric. Olamide isn’t just releasing an album; he’s dropping a cultural moment. “OLAMIDÉ” promises to be a powerful blend of Olamide’s signature streetwise credentials, superstar collaborations, and global sonic textures. It’s not just a celebration of his incredible legacy, but a bold stride towards even broader horizons for African music. Get ready to press play!