Chinko Ekun Biography, Net Worth, And Career Achievements

Chinko Ekun, born Oladipo Olamide Emmanuel on September 13, 1993, is a Nigerian rapper, singer, and songwriter known for his dynamic flow, witty punchlines, and ability to blend Yoruba and English lyrics. Over the years, Chinko Ekun has carved a niche for himself in the Nigerian music industry, earning a reputation for his street-conscious rap, infectious energy, and versatility across various genres of Afrobeat, rap, and street-hop.

Early Life and Education

Chinko Ekun was born in Ikeja, Lagos, and spent much of his early life in the bustling city. Raised in a family with strong moral values, Chinko Ekun grew up with a keen interest in both academics and music. His moniker “Chinko” came from his friends who teased him for his Chinese-like appearance, while “Ekun” translates to "tiger" in Yoruba, symbolizing his fierce and aggressive rap style.

Chinko attended high school in Lagos before gaining admission to Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, where he studied Law. His time at OAU was crucial in shaping his music career. While in school, he became known for participating in rap battles and freestyles, impressing his peers with his lyrical dexterity and ability to blend humor with hard-hitting street talk.

Despite studying law, Chinko Ekun’s passion for music never waned. He continued to record and release freestyles, performing at school events and sharing his music through social media platforms. His academic journey gave him a disciplined approach to life, but his true passion lay in music.

Music Career

Chinko Ekun's professional music career began in 2013, when he gained significant attention after releasing a series of freestyles on Instagram and other social media platforms. His unique style caught the attention of Olamide, the head of YBNL Nation, one of Nigeria’s most prominent record labels.

In 2015, Chinko Ekun officially signed to YBNL Nation, marking a turning point in his career. Under the label, he released several hit singles, including Alejo Oran and Emi Na Re, which showcased his street rap style and his ability to create catchy, relatable content. He also featured on Olamide’s critically acclaimed album Street OT, further increasing his visibility in the Nigerian music scene.

Chinko Ekun's time at YBNL was productive, as he continued to release hit singles while collaborating with label mates like Lil Kesh and Viktoh. His association with Olamide’s YBNL label gave him a platform to reach a wider audience, allowing him to establish himself as a rising star in the Nigerian music industry. However, in 2017, Chinko Ekun left YBNL to pursue an independent career.

Following his departure from YBNL, Chinko Ekun signed with Dek-Niyor Entertainment, a Dubai-based record label. Under this label, Chinko’s career reached new heights, culminating in the release of his 2018 smash hit ''Able God'' featuring Zlatan and Lil Kesh. Able God became a nationwide anthem, topping charts and earning Chinko several awards, including the Best Street-Hop Artist at the 2019 Headies Awards.

Net Worth

As of 2024, Chinko Ekun’s net worth is estimated to be around $700,000. His wealth comes from various streams, including music sales, live performances, brand endorsements, and digital streaming platforms. The success of Able God and his other hit songs have allowed him to perform at numerous high-profile events across Nigeria and internationally, contributing to his financial growth.

In addition to music, Chinko Ekun has also ventured into endorsements and brand partnerships, further boosting his income. With his strong presence on social media and his growing fanbase, Chinko has become a sought-after personality for brand campaigns in Nigeria’s entertainment and lifestyle sectors.

Career Achievements

Chinko Ekun’s career achievements are significant, particularly considering his journey from being a law student to becoming one of Nigeria’s top street-hop artists. His breakout moment came with Able God, which not only dominated the airwaves but also popularized the viral dance known as the “Zanku” dance, associated with the song’s collaborator, Zlatan. Able God won several accolades, including the 2019 Headies Award for Best Street-Hop Artiste, cementing Chinko’s place in Nigerian music history.

Before Able God, Chinko had already made a name for himself with tracks like Shayo and Emi Na Re, but his ability to deliver chart-topping hits while maintaining his lyrical integrity has made him a standout artist. His music often reflects his upbringing, the hustle of life on the streets, and a celebration of youth culture, making him relatable to many young Nigerians.

Chinko Ekun’s versatility as an artist is another notable achievement. While he is primarily known for rap, he has shown his ability to blend genres, incorporating elements of Afrobeat, street-hop, and even pop into his music. This adaptability has allowed him to remain relevant in an ever-evolving Nigerian music scene.

Beyond music, Chinko Ekun has also demonstrated a commitment to personal growth and education. His decision to complete his law degree while pursuing a music career is a testament to his work ethic and discipline.

Conclusion

Chinko Ekun’s journey from freestyling on social media to becoming one of Nigeria’s most celebrated street-hop artists is a story of passion, perseverance, and talent. His ability to merge humor, street wisdom, and infectious beats has endeared him to fans across Nigeria and beyond. With a growing net worth, several hit songs, and numerous awards to his name, Chinko Ekun continues to be a force to reckon with in the Nigerian music industry.

As he evolves both as an artist and an entrepreneur, Chinko Ekun's future in music looks bright. His story serves as an inspiration to many upcoming artists, proving that with hard work, dedication, and creativity, anyone can turn their dreams into reality. Fans eagerly await what Chinko Ekun has in store for the future, as he continues to push boundaries and leave his mark on the Nigerian music landscape.