Idowest Biography, Net Worth, And Career Achievements

Idowest, born Adekunle Idowu on November 2, 1992, is a Nigerian singer, rapper, and songwriter known for his energetic delivery, street-inspired lyrics, and his contribution to the popularization of the Afrobeat subgenre, shaku-shaku. He rose to prominence as part of the street-hop movement in Nigerian music and has since established himself as one of the key players in the genre, releasing hit songs and collaborating with some of the biggest names in the Nigerian music industry.

Early Life and Education

Idowest was born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria. Growing up in the vibrant and bustling city exposed him to a variety of musical influences, particularly street music, which has shaped his sound and career. He hails from a humble background, and like many artists from Lagos, he started his music career by performing at local shows and parties.

Although not much is known about his formal education, it’s clear that music has been Idowest’s primary focus from an early age. His journey in music began as a street rapper, which allowed him to develop a unique style that blends street lingo with Afrobeat rhythms. His passion for music eventually led him to pursue it full-time, even as he faced the challenges of breaking into Nigeria’s highly competitive music industry.

Career Beginnings and Breakthrough

Idowest’s music career took off in the mid-2010s when he started gaining recognition for his street-hop sound. He initially gained traction by releasing freestyle videos and singles that showcased his raw talent and streetwise lyrics. One of his early tracks, Shepeteri featuring Slimcase, became an instant street anthem, propelling him into the limelight. Shepeteri was one of the pioneering songs in the shaku-shaku wave, a street dance craze that took over the Nigerian music scene in 2017 and 2018.

Shaku-shaku was a turning point for Idowest’s career. The dance style and accompanying music became a cultural phenomenon, and artists who were able to tap into its popularity experienced massive success. With Shepeteri, Idowest became one of the faces of the shaku-shaku movement, earning him widespread recognition in the Nigerian street-hop genre.

His growing popularity caught the attention of Davido, one of Nigeria’s biggest music stars and the founder of Davido Music Worldwide (DMW). In 2018, Idowest was signed to DMW, a move that significantly boosted his career. Being part of the DMW label gave him access to a larger audience, high-profile collaborations, and industry resources that helped him elevate his music.

Music Style and Influence

Idowest’s music is heavily influenced by street culture and the everyday experiences of people living in Lagos. His lyrics often reflect the struggles, triumphs, and hustler mentality that characterize life in Nigeria’s urban centers. He blends Afrobeat, street-hop, and traditional Nigerian music elements, creating a sound that is raw, energetic, and infectious.

One of the defining characteristics of Idowest’s music is his ability to connect with the streets. His use of local slang, street references, and relatable themes has endeared him to fans of Nigerian street-hop. While his sound is rooted in the streets, he has also shown versatility by experimenting with other genres like Afropop and hip-hop.

Career Achievements

Hit Single - Shepeteri: Shepeteri is undoubtedly one of Idowest’s biggest career achievements. Released in 2018, the song became a major hit in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos and other urban areas. Its infectious beat and catchy hook made it a staple at parties, clubs, and on the radio. The song’s success helped solidify Idowest’s position as a rising star in the Nigerian music industry.

Signing with Davido Music Worldwide (DMW): Joining DMW was a significant milestone in Idowest’s career. The label, founded by Davido, is known for nurturing talented artists and providing them with the platform to succeed. As a DMW artist, Idowest gained access to a wider audience and more resources to produce high-quality music. His association with the label also led to collaborations with other DMW artists like Mayorkun, Dremo, and Peruzzi.

Debut EP - Mafia Culture (2019): In 2019, Idowest released his debut EP titled Mafia Culture, a project that showcased his unique style and ability to blend street-hop with Afrobeats. The EP featured hit tracks like Ye Mama and Who?, which further solidified his reputation as a street-hop artist. The project received positive reviews from fans and critics alike and demonstrated his potential as a versatile artist capable of evolving beyond the shaku-shaku trend.

Collaborations and Features: Idowest has collaborated with several big names in the Nigerian music industry. Notable collaborations include working with Davido on the track Ji Masun, which was another hit that helped increase his visibility. He has also worked with artists like Zlatan, Chinko Ekun, and Slimcase, further establishing himself as a key figure in the street-hop genre.

Mafia Culture Vol. 2 (2021): Following the success of his debut EP, Idowest released the sequel Mafia Culture Vol. 2 in 2021. The project featured collaborations with top artists like Davido, Mayorkun, and Patoranking, and it showcased his growth as an artist. Songs like Kabaa featuring Mayorkun became fan favorites and helped expand his reach in the industry.

Street-Hop Recognition: Idowest’s contribution to the street-hop genre has earned him recognition in the Nigerian music industry. He has been praised for his ability to stay true to his street roots while also evolving his sound to appeal to a broader audience. His influence in popularizing shaku-shaku and his consistency in delivering street anthems have made him a beloved figure in the Nigerian street-hop scene.

Net Worth

As of 2024, Idowest’s estimated net worth is around $500,000. His wealth primarily comes from music sales, streaming revenue, live performances, and brand endorsements. His affiliation with DMW has also provided him with opportunities for international recognition and tours, which have contributed to his growing net worth.

Idowest’s hit singles, EP releases, and collaborations have generated millions of streams across platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Audiomack, adding significantly to his earnings. Additionally, his performances at major concerts and music festivals in Nigeria and abroad have boosted his financial standing.

Future Prospects

Idowest’s future in the Nigerian music industry looks promising. With his unique sound, street credibility, and ability to adapt to new trends, he is well-positioned to remain relevant in the evolving Afrobeat and street-hop scenes. His affiliation with DMW continues to provide him with opportunities for growth, and as Afrobeat continues to gain global recognition, Idowest has the potential to reach even greater heights.

Fans can expect more music, collaborations, and possibly a debut album in the near future as Idowest continues to build on his success and expand his brand.

Conclusion

Idowest’s journey from the streets of Lagos to becoming a recognized figure in the Nigerian music industry is a testament to his talent, hustle, and determination. With hit songs like Shepeteri, major collaborations, and two successful EPs under his belt, Idowest has carved a niche for himself as one of Nigeria’s top street-hop artists. His unique blend of street culture and Afrobeat, combined with his affiliation with DMW, ensures that he remains a key player in the industry for years to come.