Aug 12, 2023 5 Min Read
Oladapo Daniel Oyebanjo, born on June 9, 1980, is known by his stage name D'banj. He is a Nigerian musician, singer, rapper, songwriter, entrepreneur, and television personality.
He has achieved numerous music awards, including Best African Act at the MTV Europe Music Awards 2007, Artist of the Year at the MTV Africa Music Awards 2009, Best International Act: Africa at the 2011 BET Awards, Best-selling African Artist at the 2014 World Music Awards, and the Evolution award at the 2015 MTV Africa Music Awards.
He adopted the name D'banj, which combines his first name, Dapo, with his surname, Oyebanjo. Internationally, he's recognized for his 2012 hit "Oliver Twist," which blended Afrobeats and electronic dance music, achieving success on African and UK charts. As of 2016, D'banj was considered the wealthiest solo musician in Nigeria according to T.I.N Magazine.
Born on June 9, 1980, in Zaria, Nigeria, to a military officer father and a businesswoman mother from Ogun State, D'banj moved frequently due to his father's profession and eventually studied mechanical engineering at Lagos State University. His interest in music clashed with his parents' military aspirations, leading him to drop out of Nigerian Military School, where he was enrolled at age eleven.
He was introduced to the harmonica by his late older brother and found solace in music after his brother's passing. D'banj continued to develop his musical skills while studying mechanical engineering in London, where he met Don Jazzy, a songwriter and producer. They returned to Lagos in 2004, leading to D'banj's debut album "No Long Thing" in 2005.
Education
D'banj, also known as the Kokomaster or Bangalee, was born on June 9, 1980 in Zaria, Nigeria.
He was born in Shagamu, Ogun State, to a military officer father, Daniel Duro Oyebanjo, who commanded an artillery regiment, and a devout church dignitary businesswoman, Faith Olubukolola Oyebanjo (mother).
Taiwo Oyebanjo and Kehinde Oyebanjo are Dbanj's twin siblings. Shola Oyebanjo and Femi Oyebanjo are his other siblings.
D'banj received his bachelor's degree from Lagos State University. He majored in Mechanical Engineering.
Career
D'banj's career was marked by collaborations and successful albums. He signed with Kanye West's G.O.O.D Music label in 2011 and achieved international recognition. However, the collaboration ended in 2016. D'banj co-founded Mo' Hits Records and later established DB Records. He's been associated with various endorsements, from energy drinks to technology companies.
Furthermore, D'banj is known for his philanthropy and activism. He founded the Koko Foundation for Youth and Peace Development, became a United Nations Youth Ambassador for Peace, and a ONE campaign ambassador, advocating for issues like agriculture and poverty alleviation.
Family
D'banj's personal life also became public, including his marriage to Lineo Didi Kilgrow in 2016, with whom he has children. He unveiled his son's birth in 2019.
In addition to his music career, D'banj is an entrepreneur with ventures in technology, including platforms for creative talents. He launched THE CREAM PLATFORM, aiming to discover and support young creative minds across Nigeria.
D'banj's journey is a blend of music, entrepreneurship, activism, and personal milestones, making him a prominent figure in Nigeria's entertainment and business landscape.
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