Drake Helps A Nigerian Artist Go From Nobody To Racking Up Millions Of Streams

Drake is one of the most influential artists in all of hip-hop. The multi-platinum, multi-talented superstar can now be labeled a kingmaker in the international music scene. When he’s not busy partying, at least.

In a recent AllHipHop interview, Nigerian artist Oxlade revealed how Drake put him on the map. He recalled how a simple gesture made him a worldwide phenomenon.

“It felt special. He screenshotted the song on Apple Music and he posted it on his story. Ever since then, it’s been really crazy for me. I had three million streams the next day. Extra, that’s the Drake effect, man. Everybody needs the Drake effect. I obviously hit him up, I thanked him and everything.”

Oxlade performs in a unique style known as Afrobeat. The emerging genre is popular outside of the US but has gained traction in North America thanks to Drake’s endorsement.

In just a day, Drake’s fateful share garnered Oxlade 3 million streams. Drake’s post, which included a plug for the song Away, went viral. Now, the sky is the limit for Oxlade’s career.

“There’s nothing stopping my music from crossing over. There’s nothing too big as a mega hit song or a No. 1 hit record on the Billboard charts that’s an Afrobeats song. It’s not impossible anymore. You see some Afrobeats songs crossing over and doing the most. Anytime I go to any restaurant, studio, or anywhere I go, I hear Afrobeats songs and I feel proud to be Nigerian. I feel proud to come from where that sound comes from.”

Oxlade is showing quite a bit of international ambition. He also hopes to collaborate with Drake in the future and has sent the rapper tracks to check out.

Have you checked out Oxlade’s music? Let us know what you think in the comments!