YEMI ALADE : MAMA AFRICA OF AFROPOP

Yemi Alade, whose full name is “Yemi Eberechi Alade”, is a Nigerian Afropop singer, songwriter, actress, and activist. She was born on March 13, 1989, in Abia State, Nigeria. She attended secondary School at Victory Grammar School, Ikeja, and the University of Lagos,both in Lagos, Nigeria. Yemi gained prominence after winning the Peak Talent Show in 2009, which led to her signing with Effyzzie Music Group.

Her breakthrough came in 2013 with the release of her hit single “Johnny”, which became a massive success across Africa and beyond. The song topped various charts and earned her numerous awards and nominations. Since then, Yemi Alade has become one of Africa’s leading female artists.

Alade has released several albums throughout her career, including “King of Queens” (2014), “Mama Africa” EP (2016), “Black Magic” (2017), “Woman of Steel” (2019), “Empress” (2020), and “Queendoncom” (2021). Her music style incorporates elements of Afro-pop, R&B, and highlife, with lyrics often celebrating African culture and empowering women.She has also released singles like; “Johnny”, “Tangerine”, “Kissing”, “Tumbum”, “Na Gode”and many others.

Yemi has worked with several renowned producers including Selebobo, Shady, Bizniz, Beat Nation, Young D, Philkeyz, GospelOnDeBeatz, DIL, Mr Chidoo, Fliptyce, OJB Jezreel, EL Mcee just to name a few. She has also worked with renowned artists like Bovi, Chidinma, Phyno, DIL, Diamond Platinum of Tanzania as well as R2Bees of Ghana. Yemi Alade promoted the album in several African countries including Kenya, Ghana, South Africa and many other countries.

Aside from her successful music career, Yemi Alade has also ventured into acting. She made her acting debut in the Nigerian drama film “Home” (2019), “Black is King” (2019), “Omo Ghetto: The Saga” (2020) among many others. She has also coached in the tv reality show “The Voice Nigeria” twice that is 2017 and 2020.

One of the notable philanthropy of Yemi Alade is the proceeds from Mama Africa album which she announced to be given to Feed a Child Charity Initiative.

Yemi Alade’s talent and contributions to the African music industry have earned her numerous accolades, including multiple awards at prestigious ceremonies like the MTV Africa Music Awards, AFRIMMA, African Entertainment Awards USA, Sound City MTV Awards, B.E.T Awards and many others. She has also collaborated with international artists such as Rick Ross, Angelique Kidjo, and Beyoncé.

Yemi Alade is known for her energetic performances, powerful vocals, and vibrant fashion sense. She continues to be a prominent figure in the Nigerian and African music scene, inspiring many with her music and empowering messages.

Delia Nyadi