Maleek Berry Biography, Net Worth, And Career Achievements

Maleek Berry, born Maleek Shoyebi on August 11, 1987, is a renowned British-Nigerian record producer, singer, and songwriter. Known for his smooth fusion of Afrobeat, R&B, and hip-hop sounds, Maleek Berry has carved out a distinct space for himself in the global music industry. His versatility as both a producer and an artist has earned him widespread acclaim and recognition.

Early Life and Education

Maleek Berry was born and raised in South London, United Kingdom, to Nigerian parents. His African heritage and the diverse culture of London had a profound impact on his musical style. Growing up, Berry was exposed to various genres of music, including jazz, gospel, R&B, and Afrobeats, which later influenced his sound. His family’s love for music was pivotal in shaping his career ambitions.

While pursuing his education, Berry developed a passion for music production and began experimenting with different sounds at a young age. He honed his skills by watching tutorials, practicing with music production software, and collaborating with local artists. His early interest in music did not distract him from his studies, as Berry pursued a degree in computer science, showcasing his academic prowess alongside his musical talent.

Music Career Breakthrough

Maleek Berry’s career breakthrough came in 2012 when he started working with top Nigerian artists in the Afrobeats scene. He caught the attention of Wizkid, one of Nigeria's biggest music stars, and soon became affiliated with Wizkid’s Starboy Entertainment. This affiliation opened doors for him to work on several high-profile projects.

In 2013, Berry co-produced the hit single “The Matter” by Wizkid, which became an instant hit and received significant airplay across Africa and the diaspora. His unique production style, blending Afrobeats with Western sounds, quickly set him apart from other producers in the industry. "The Matter" became the stepping stone for Berry to establish himself as a top producer in Nigeria’s booming music industry.

Transition to Singing and Solo Career

Despite his success as a producer, Maleek Berry had always harbored ambitions of being a performing artist. In 2016, he made the transition from behind-the-scenes work to becoming a solo artist with the release of his debut EP, Last Daze of Summer. The project was an instant success, featuring hit songs like “Kontrol” and “Eko Miami.”

"Kontrol," in particular, was a breakout hit, showcasing Maleek Berry’s smooth vocals and ability to create infectious melodies. The song blended Afrobeats with tropical sounds and was widely regarded as one of the biggest summer hits of 2016. The success of Last Daze of Summer marked Maleek Berry’s evolution from just a producer to a respected singer and songwriter.

In 2017, Berry released his second EP, First Daze of Winter, which further solidified his place in the music industry. The EP featured hits like “Been Calling” and “Pon My Mind,” further proving Berry’s consistency and growth as an artist. His ability to craft songs with emotional depth while maintaining a catchy Afrobeats rhythm set him apart in the crowded music scene.

Net Worth and Endorsements

As of 2024, Maleek Berry’s estimated net worth is around $800,000 to $1 million. His wealth primarily comes from music production, songwriting, royalties, and performances. As both a producer and artist, Berry has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Wizkid, Davido, Runtown, and Burna Boy. His work on major hits has earned him substantial royalties, while his solo career and tours have contributed significantly to his financial success.

Berry’s international appeal has also led to various endorsement deals with global brands, further increasing his income. He has collaborated with companies in the tech and fashion sectors, taking advantage of his image as a stylish and innovative artist.

Career Achievements and Awards

Maleek Berry’s career achievements are impressive, both as a producer and a solo artist. As a producer, he has worked on multiple chart-topping songs, helping shape the sound of modern Afrobeats. His ability to produce hits across different genres has made him one of the most sought-after producers in the African music scene.

His work as a solo artist has also been highly recognized. Berry has been nominated for various awards, including the MOBO Awards and the MTV Africa Music Awards. In 2017, he was nominated for the Best Male category at the Soundcity MVP Awards and also for Producer of the Year, highlighting his dual impact as both a singer and producer.

In 2018, Maleek Berry was named Best Male West Africa at the AFRIMMA (African Muzik Magazine Awards), solidifying his influence in African music. His ability to seamlessly blend genres and appeal to both African and international audiences has made him a standout figure in the industry.

Global Influence and Collaborations

Maleek Berry’s influence extends beyond Africa. His music has resonated with audiences in Europe, the UK, and the United States, allowing him to perform at major international music festivals, including Afropunk and One Africa Music Fest. His collaborations with international artists, such as Goldlink and Not3s, have further expanded his reach into the global market.

Conclusion

Maleek Berry’s journey from South London to becoming one of Africa’s top music producers and artists is a testament to his versatility, creativity, and passion for music. With a net worth of around $4 million, a catalog of hit songs, and numerous accolades, he continues to be a driving force in the global music industry. His ability to merge Afrobeat rhythms with contemporary Western sounds has made him a key figure in the Afrobeats movement, and his career shows no signs of slowing down.