Rapper and singer Zlatan has shared the story of his journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Nigeria’s top music stars.
In an interview with Nandi Madida on Apple Music 1, the Zanku crooner said his new album, Symbol of Hope, was inspired by his desire to motivate others who come from challenging backgrounds.
“I used to listen to music before I even knew I was going to make music. I was already a fan of many artistes and saw them as symbols—people whose lives changed from nothing to something. Now, being in this position myself, I see how my music inspires others not to give up. I get so many messages from people who tell me my songs keep them going. That’s why I decided to call the album Symbol of Hope. It’s my way of saying, ‘If I can do it, you can too,’” he said.
The artiste, whose real name is Omoniyi Temidayo, revealed that his path to music began after he failed to gain admission into the university because of poor grades in mathematics and accounting.
“I was supposed to go to university in 2011 or 2012, but I didn’t have my complete papers. My dad is a pastor, and I used to play drums in church, but I never thought I’d become an artiste. When I failed my exam, I started going to the studio with a friend. The first song I recorded was rubbish, but when I played it for my siblings, they made me feel like Jay-Z that day,” he said.
Encouraged by his family and friends, Zlatan continued making music even though he initially treated it as a hobby. His big break came during his first semester at university when he entered and won a rap competition.
“I didn’t even believe anyone could win a car through music. Out of 140 contestants, I won. I was just 19, and it was only three weeks into school. That was when I started taking rap seriously. I was writing every day and night. That moment changed my life,” he recalled.
Zlatan also spoke about the creation of his globally recognised dance move, Zanku—an acronym for Zlatan Abeg No Kill Us.
“That’s Africa to the world. The most interesting thing is that I attached my name to it. There’s no way you’ll mention Zanku without mentioning Zlatan. Growing up, I always wanted to have my own dance move, and when it happened, it went viral globally,” he said.