In the pantheon of Nigerian music, few names command the reverence and awe-inspiring legacy of Olamide. With a storied career spanning over a decade, the Bariga-born icon has ascended to legend status, his influence transcending borders and genres. As a trailblazer, Olamide’s innovative and genre-bending prowess have paved the way for a new generation of artistes, making an “Olamide Feature” a staple for artiste looking to break into the scene.
His collaborations, each one a masterclass in creative symbiosis. From the frenetic energy of “Ghost Mode” with Phyno to the melodic bliss of “Kana” with Wizkid, Olamide’s features are a testament to his artistry. With an unparalleled ability to adapt and evolve, he navigates the sonic landscape with effortless ease.
As we celebrate his enduring impact, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 Olamide features – (NOTE: This Article is limited to only songs Olamide appears/credited on as a featured artiste)
10. Vision 2020 Remix (W/ Bella Shmurda)
A catalyst for greatness, Olamide’s feature on Bella Shmurda’s “Vision 2020 Remix” marked a pivotal moment in the artiste’s trajectory. This collaboration not only amplified Shmurda’s breakout single but also catapulted him to stardom, earning him a spot among Afrobeats’ most promising talents. Olamide’s involvement served as a nod of approval. This remix stands as a testament to Olamide’s ability to spot and nurture emerging talent, forever changing the course of Shmurda’s career.
9. Indomie (W/ CDQ and Masterkraft)
Masterkraft brought together two of Western Nigeria’s finest rappers, Olamide and CDQ, for the unforgettable “Indomie”. Olamide, the seasoned rapper, stole the show with a hook and two verses that would become etched in the memories of fans. His contribution transformed the song into an instant street anthem, earning it a well-deserved nomination at the 2015 Headies. This iconic track not only showcased Olamide’s skill but also solidified his status as a hitmaker, propelling CDQ’s burgeoning career to new heights.
8. Sometimes Remix (W/ T.I Blaze)
The Olamide effect is a phenomenon that has launched countless careers, and T.I Blaze is the latest beneficiary. Following a modestly successful initial run, the remix of “Sometimes” featuring Olamide, catapulted the song to stratospheric heights, propelling T.I Blaze to stardom. This collaboration not only elevated Blaze’s profile but also solidified his position as a trailblazer in the street pop scene. Olamide’s Midas touch has once again proven that his endorsement is the ultimate co-sign, transforming promising talent into bonafide stars.
7. Amapiano (W/ Asake)
The synergy between Olamide and Asake is undeniable, and their collaborative efforts have yielded some of the most exciting music in recent memory. Following the success of first collaboration “Omo Ope”, the duo reunited for “Amapiano”
The song’s astronomical success, including a Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance, is a testament to the magic that happens when these two visionaries come together. Asake’s rapid ascent to superstardom owes a significant debt to Olamide’s mentorship and collaborative genius, cementing their partnership as one of the most fruitful in contemporary Afrobeats.
6. Local Rappers (W/ Reminisce and Phyno)
Olamide joined forces with fellow rap heavyweights Reminisce and Phyno for the aptly titled “Local Rappers”. As expected, the track evolved into a lyrical showdown, with Olamide arguably emerging victorious. The song earned a nomination for Best Rap Single and securing the award for Best Collabo at the annual Headies award.
5. Bahd Baddo Baddest (W/ Falz and Davido)
In a convergence of talent, Falz orchestrated a historic collaboration with Olamide and Davido, yielding the iconic “Bahd Baddo Baddest”. This triumvirate of Nigerian music royalty brought their A-game, with each verse a testament to their unique prowess. This seminal track not only overtook the airwaves and clubs but also redefined the possibilities of Afrobeats and Nigerian rap, forever etching “Bahd Baddo Baddest in the annals of music history.
4. Jagaban Remix (W/ Ycee)
Ycee’s ascension to stardom was nothing short of meteoric, and his debut single “Jagaban” was the catalyst. However, it was Olamide’s verse on the remix that transformed the song into a cultural phenomenon, propelling Ycee into the stratosphere. Olamide’s contribution was the spark that ignited the track’s street credibility, allowing Ycee to tap into the mainstream consciousness. The remix’s success laid the groundwork for Ycee’s subsequent triumphs, cementing his status as one of the most promising acts in Nigerian music.
3. Fada Fada (ft. Phyno)
The synergy between Olamide and Phyno is a force to be reckoned with, as the two Nigerian rap heavyweights continue to push the boundaries of their collaborative prowess. Their unofficial partnership has yielded some of the most iconic tracks in recent memory, with “Fada Fada” Featured on Phyno’s sophomore album “The Playmaker”, standing out as a testament to their chemistry. Olamide and Phyno have created a symbiotic relationship that has resulted in some of the most dynamic and beloved collaborations in Nigerian music. “Fada Fada” is a crowning achievement in their discography, solidifying their status as the most exciting and innovative duo in the rap scene.
2. Shoki Remix (ft. Davido and Lil Kesh)
The original track, released under YBNL, had moderate success, but Olamide with Davido feature on the remix injected new life into the song, transforming it into an anthem that remains relevant years later. This masterful collaboration not only solidified Lil Kesh’s status as a rising star but also earned him a coveted nomination for the Next Rated award at the 2015 Headies. The “Shoki” remix stands as a testament to Olamide’s ability to amplify talent and create enduring hits.
1. Ghost Mode (W/ Phyno)
Crown this list with one of Olamide’s best works, “Ghost Mode” is a standout collaboration with Phyno. A game-changer in Nigerian rap, “Ghost Mode” revolutionized the scene by cementing the relevance of native-language rappers. Olamide and Phyno’s collaboration shattered the notion that English-speaking rappers were superior due to their “foreign” sound. This iconic track proudly showcased indigenous languages, paving the way for a new era of authentic, locally-rooted hip-hop. By achieving massive success and critical acclaim, “Ghost Mode” debunked linguistic biases, empowering native-language rappers to take their rightful place in the spotlight.
The song’s authentic storytelling and catchy chorus made it a decade highlight, earning awards like Best Collaboration at The Headies and Nigeria Entertainment Awards. Despite a ban by the NBC in 2013, “Ghost Mode” solidified both rappers’ positions as industry contenders, proving their impact on Nigerian music.
Written by: Balogun David, Precious Emmanuel, and Akinbobola Ebiseni.