Nigerian Afrobeat sensation Asake, known for chart-topping hits like Omo Ope, Sungba, and Terminator, has sparked a flurry of reactions on social media with his latest transformation. The artist, previously synonymous with his signature dreadlocks, has opted for a short afro, a look that has stirred up both praise and criticism from fans and followers.
Social media users have weighed in with diverse opinions. Twitter user @withAlvin_ quipped, “Is it just me or does Asake look more like Kodak Black now? What happened to him?” Meanwhile, @bigwiziii shared a side-by-side comparison of the musician’s old and new appearances, captioning it, “Asake went from 100 to Zero.”
Since his debut in 2020 with the hit single Lady, Asake has rapidly gained a massive fan base both locally and internationally. His dynamic blend of catchy lyrics, infectious beats, and visually striking music videos have earned him widespread acclaim. Signed to Empire Distribution, Asake has racked up numerous accolades, including AFRIMA’s Break Out Artist of the Year (2022) and a BET nomination for Best New International Act (2023). His single Amapiano also earned him a Grammy nomination in November 2023.
Despite his meteoric rise, Asake’s journey hasn’t been without controversy. Last year, he faced backlash over the video for Only Me, which some critics claimed mocked Christianity due to his use of religious imagery, including a halo and Christian regalia. Additionally, rumors of drug addiction swirled after a live performance where he appeared noticeably leaner than usual.
With five albums under his belt and over 7.4 million monthly Spotify listeners, Asake shows no signs of slowing down. He recently teased fans with previews of two upcoming singles, Why Love and Bad Boy, hinting at another exciting year in 2025.
Interestingly, Asake’s stage name is a tribute to his mother, showcasing a personal touch that resonates with his fans. Having collaborated with global stars like Wizkid, Travis Scott, and Central Cee, Asake continues to push boundaries, cementing his place as one of Nigeria’s most dynamic artists.
