Adekunle Gold

Adekunle Gold Adekunle Almoruf Kosoko, better known as Adekunle Gold, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and graphic designer whose unique blend of Afrobeat, highlife, and pop music has made him one of the most innovative artists in African music. Born on January 28, 1987, in Lagos, Nigeria, Adekunle was raised in a culturally rich environment that influenced his musical and artistic pursuits. Inspired by legendary Nigerian musicians like King Sunny Ade and Ebenezer Obey, he developed a distinctive sound that blends traditional and modern elements, making his music deeply rooted in Nigerian culture yet accessible to global audiences. Adekunle Gold’s music journey began with a passion for graphic design. He earned a degree in Arts and Design from Lagos State Polytechnic and initially worked as a graphic designer, gaining recognition for his work, including designing graphics for various brands and artists. However, his true calling was music, and in 2014, he released *Sade*, a cover of One Direction's *Story of My Life*, infused with highlife rhythms and Yoruba lyrics. *Sade* quickly went viral, and its success led to a record deal with YBNL Nation, the label founded by Nigerian rapper Olamide. Under YBNL, Adekunle Gold released *Orente* and *Pick Up*, two soulful singles that captured the hearts of fans with their storytelling and cultural pride. His debut album, *Gold* (2016), was both a commercial and critical success, featuring hit songs that celebrated his unique “urban highlife” sound—a fusion of traditional highlife, Afropop, and African storytelling. The album reached number 7 on the Billboard World Albums chart, making Adekunle Gold a rising star in the African music industry. In 2019, Adekunle Gold released *About 30*, his sophomore album, which marked his evolution as an artist and included reflective tracks like *Ire*, a song about gratitude and resilience. The album earned widespread acclaim, showcasing his growing versatility and lyrical maturity. With his shift toward a more contemporary Afro-pop sound, he began to explore new themes and styles, producing hits like *Kelegbe Megbe*, *Something Different*, and *AG Baby*, which showcased his ability to blend Afropop with international influences. In addition to his solo success, Adekunle Gold’s collaboration with his wife, Simi, has led to some of his most beloved work. Their duets, including *Promise* and *By You*, reveal their chemistry and commitment to one another, making them one of Nigeria’s most celebrated musical couples. Adekunle Gold’s artistry extends beyond music to his distinctive fashion sense and his commitment to visual creativity. Known for his colorful, bold style, he combines African prints with contemporary designs, establishing himself as a fashion icon. He designs much of his own album art, further personalizing his brand. With multiple awards, including Headies and City People Music Awards, Adekunle Gold’s journey from a graphic designer to an Afro-pop icon is a testament to his creativity and hard work. His music not only celebrates African culture but also transcends borders, inspiring fans around the world and solidifying his place as one of Africa’s most influential contemporary musicians.