Meet Zinoleesky: Biography, Net Worth, And Career Highlights
Zinoleesky, born Oniyide Azeez on April 21, 2000, in Agege, Lagos, has made a significant mark in the Nigerian music industry. The Nigerian singer, rapper, and songwriter has won the hearts of music lovers across Africa and beyond with his unique blend of Afrobeat, Afro-pop, and R&B. From humble beginnings to becoming one of Nigeria's most prominent young stars, Zinoleesky's rise to fame is a true reflection of his talent and resilience. In this detailed bio, we will explore Zinoleesky's background, musical career, rise to fame, net worth, and more.
Early Life and Background
Zinoleesky grew up in Agege, a suburb of Lagos, Nigeria, where he completed his early education. Despite hailing from Ogun State, his formative years were spent in the bustling Lagos metropolis, where he was exposed to diverse musical genres that would later influence his music. Zinoleesky attended Lively Kiddies Nursery and Primary School, before progressing to State High School Oyewole in Agege for his secondary education.
From an early age, Zinoleesky demonstrated an interest in music, often participating in freestyle rap sessions with his friends, including Lil Frosh, another notable Nigerian artist. These early performances laid the groundwork for his career in music. Zinoleesky’s passion for music continued to grow as he honed his skills in rap and singing, with his focus on producing music that would resonate with his peers and others.
Career Beginnings and Breakthrough
Zinoleesky's professional music career began to take shape in 2017 when he started sharing his freestyle rap videos on Instagram and other social media platforms. These videos quickly went viral, gaining him attention from music enthusiasts and industry professionals. His lyrical prowess and unique flow caught the attention of music labels, leading to offers for a recording contract.
Although Zinoleesky was offered a contract by Davido's DMW label, he ultimately chose to sign with Marlian Records, a record label owned by Naira Marley, in December 2019. This move was pivotal in shaping his career and providing him with the platform to expand his fan base.
Rise to Fame
In 2020, Zinoleesky released his debut studio project, Chrome Eccentric, which included several hit tracks, such as "Ma Pariwo" and "Kilofeshe." These songs rapidly gained traction, with "Ma Pariwo" climbing to the No. 14 spot on Apple Music's Top 100 Chart and No. 12 on the YouTube Chart in September 2020. "Kilofeshe," another standout track, went viral and became an anthem for music lovers. The remix of "Kilofeshe," featuring Mayorkun and South African singer Busiswa, further propelled his career, as it received massive airplay and streams across various platforms.
With the success of Chrome Eccentric and the reception of his songs, Zinoleesky firmly cemented his position as one of the rising stars in the Nigerian music scene. His ability to seamlessly blend Afrobeat and Afro-pop with R&B elements allowed him to carve a niche that appealed to a wide range of listeners.
Notable Works and Collaborations
Zinoleesky's success continued into 2021 and beyond. In December 2021, he released his highly anticipated EP titled Grit and Lust, which contained fan favorites such as "YanYanYan" and "Call of Duty." The EP showcased his evolving musical style and ability to tackle various themes, including love, hustle, and life struggles. Tracks from the EP resonated with his growing fanbase, and Zinoleesky's popularity soared even higher.
In addition to his solo projects, Zinoleesky has collaborated with several prominent Nigerian artists, further boosting his influence in the music industry. He has worked with the likes of Lil Frosh, Zlatan, Lyta, Mohbad, and Naira Marley himself, among others. These collaborations have helped establish him as one of the most sought-after young artists in Nigeria.
Musical Style and Influence
Zinoleesky’s musical style is a fusion of Afrobeat, Afro-pop, and R&B, with lyrics that often reflect the struggles of street life, love, ambition, and personal growth. His ability to blend these genres has made him a fan favorite, as his music speaks to a diverse range of listeners. Zinoleesky’s sound is characterized by catchy melodies, infectious hooks, and relatable lyrics that appeal to both young and older audiences.
His style has been influenced by a variety of Nigerian music legends, including Olamide, Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido. Zinoleesky has been known to sample elements from these artists while infusing his own personal touch to create something fresh and exciting. His versatility as an artist enables him to explore different themes and sounds, ensuring that his music remains relevant to the changing tastes of the Nigerian music market.
Personal Life
Zinoleesky’s personal life has garnered media attention over the years. In 2021, there were rumors about his relationship with Shubomi, the sister of Naira Marley. The two were frequently spotted together, and their rumored romance sparked widespread media coverage. However, by January 2023, Zinoleesky publicly announced that he was single, and the couple had parted ways.
Later that year, Zinoleesky experienced a major life milestone when he welcomed his first child, a daughter named Zendaya, in December 2023. The news of his fatherhood delighted fans and added a personal dimension to his already public persona.
Net Worth and Assets
As of 2025, Zinoleesky’s estimated net worth is approximately $1.5 million. This fortune has been accumulated through his successful music career, including earnings from streaming platforms, record sales, live performances, and music video royalties. He has also signed several lucrative endorsement deals, contributing significantly to his financial standing.
Zinoleesky has made significant investments in his personal life, including acquiring luxury cars. One of his prized possessions is a Lexus ES350, worth about 4.5 million Naira. He also owns a Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon SUV, a symbol of his success and growing influence in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Awards and Nominations
Zinoleesky’s talent and impact on the Nigerian music scene have been recognized through several nominations and awards. In 2020, he received the Rookie of the Year nomination at The Headies, Nigeria's most prestigious music awards, for his breakout hit "Ma Pariwo." In the same year, he was also nominated for Next Rated Artist at the City People Music Awards, solidifying his place as one of the country’s brightest stars.
In 2022, Zinoleesky was once again nominated for the Next Rated award at The Headies, a testament to his growing influence and relevance in the ever-evolving Nigerian music industry.
Tours and Performances
Zinoleesky's international recognition has been bolstered by successful tours, including a series of performances in the United Kingdom. His UK tour, which took place in 2022, grossed over £200,000, and his performances in cities such as London, Birmingham, and Manchester attracted large crowds. These successful international tours have helped expand Zinoleesky’s fanbase and broaden his appeal beyond Nigeria’s borders.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Zinoleesky’s future in the Nigerian music industry appears bright. As he continues to release new music and collaborate with top-tier artists, Zinoleesky's presence in the industry is sure to remain dominant. He has already proven his ability to adapt to the evolving music landscape and his knack for creating hits that resonate with a wide range of listeners.
Moreover, Zinoleesky’s personal growth and maturity as an artist will likely influence the direction of his music in the coming years. Fans can expect new sounds, diverse collaborations, and continued success as he strives to make an even greater impact in the Nigerian music industry and beyond.
FAQ
- What is Zinoleesky's real name?
- Zinoleesky's real name is Oniyide Azeez.
- When was Zinoleesky born?
- Zinoleesky was born on April 21, 2000.
- Which record label is Zinoleesky signed to?
- Zinoleesky is signed to Marlian Records, owned by Naira Marley.
- What is Zinoleesky's net worth?
- Zinoleesky's net worth is estimated at $1.5 million.
- Does Zinoleesky have any children?
- Yes, Zinoleesky has a daughter named Zendaya, whom he welcomed in December 2023.
- What are some of Zinoleesky's popular songs?
- Some of Zinoleesky’s popular songs include "Ma Pariwo," "Kilofeshe," "YanYanYan," and "Call of Duty."
- Has Zinoleesky won any awards?
- Yes, Zinoleesky has been nominated for several awards, including Rookie of the Year at The Headies in 2020.
Conclusion
Zinoleesky’s rise from a young boy in Agege, Lagos, to a household name in Nigerian music is a story of dedication, talent, and persistence. His ability to blend Afrobeat, Afro-pop, and R&B has made him one of the most sought-after artists in the country. With a growing fanbase, hit songs, and a promising future, Zinoleesky is undoubtedly one of the brightest stars of the Nigerian music scene. As he continues to evolve both personally and professionally, Zinoleesky remains an inspiration to many aspiring artists in Nigeria and around the world.
