Reekado Banks

 Reekado Banks, born Ayoleyi Hanniel Solomon on December 6, 1993, in Lagos, Nigeria, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and recording artist known for his unique blend of Afrobeat, pop, and R&B. Reekado gained widespread recognition as a member of the popular Nigerian record label Mavin Records, where he became one of the standout stars before embarking on a successful solo career. His distinctive voice, versatile music style, and chart-topping hits have made him one of the most prominent young artists in Nigeria's music industry.

Early Life and Education

Reekado Banks was born into a Christian family in Lagos, where he grew up alongside his three siblings. His love for music started at a young age, and he began singing in his church choir. Reekado’s musical talent was evident early on, and he was influenced by various genres, including Afrobeat, hip-hop, and highlife.

He attended Atunrashe Secondary School in Lagos, where he began to develop his musical craft. After completing his secondary education, he pursued a degree in History and International Studies at the University of Lagos, although he never wavered from his passion for music. His academic background in history would later reflect in his songwriting, as he often includes storytelling elements in his music.

Career Beginnings and Breakthrough

Reekado Banks' musical journey began in the early 2010s when he started recording his own music and performing in local events. He initially went by the name “Spicy” but later changed it to Reekado Banks when he decided to take a more professional approach to his music career.

His breakthrough came in 2014 when he was discovered by Don Jazzy, the CEO of Mavin Records. Reekado was signed to the label, and his journey to stardom began with his first major hit, "Turn It Up". The song quickly gained traction and earned him recognition as one of the label's promising stars.

However, it was the release of his single "Katapot" in 2015 that cemented his place in the Nigerian music scene. The track was a commercial success and was loved by fans for its catchy melody, distinctive Afrobeat sound, and relatable lyrics. "Katapot" became a massive hit, topping music charts across Nigeria and solidifying Reekado Banks as one of the leading artists in the Afrobeat genre.

Rise to Fame and Continued Success

Following the success of "Katapot", Reekado Banks continued to release hits that would define his career. In 2016, he released the popular single "Oluwa Ni", which became another anthem for fans of Afrobeat and cemented his status as a rising star. His music, which blends catchy hooks, vibrant beats, and relatable themes, quickly gained him a large following both in Nigeria and abroad.

In 2016, Reekado released his debut studio album "Spotlight", which featured collaborations with other top Nigerian artists like Tiwa Savage, Flavour, and Patoranking. The album was met with critical and commercial success, with tracks like "Ladies and Gentlemen" and "Check". The album further solidified Reekado Banks as one of the most versatile and consistent artists in the Nigerian music industry.

In 2017, Reekado also released his hit single "Rora", which became one of his biggest songs to date. The song's catchy rhythm and Afrobeat influences, paired with Reekado’s signature vocal style, helped it top music charts across Africa. The success of "Rora" led to numerous award nominations, and it is considered one of his signature tracks.

Musical Style and Influences

Reekado Banks' music is a fusion of Afrobeat, pop, R&B, and dancehall, characterized by vibrant rhythms, smooth vocals, and relatable storytelling. His style is often described as unique, with his ability to blend various genres seamlessly while staying true to his African roots. Reekado’s versatility allows him to explore different musical styles, from the energetic Afrobeat dance anthems to more laid-back R&B ballads.

Reekado is known for his ability to write songs that resonate with his audience. His lyrics often explore themes of love, relationships, and the ups and downs of life, making his music relatable to a wide range of listeners. His melodic approach to Afrobeat, combined with his catchy hooks, has made him a favorite among fans of both Nigerian music and international audiences.

Some of his major musical influences include 2Baba (formerly 2Face Idibia), D’banj, Wande Coal, and Drake. His sound has been shaped by these artists, combining the traditional African sounds of Afrobeat with modern pop and R&B influences.

Personal Life and Philanthropy

Reekado Banks is known for being relatively private about his personal life, though he often shares glimpses of it with fans through social media. Despite his fame, he has remained humble and grounded, and his fans appreciate his down-to-earth nature.

Reekado is passionate about giving back to his community. Over the years, he has been involved in various charitable initiatives, including supporting education for underprivileged children and promoting the importance of youth empowerment. He has also used his platform to advocate for causes related to mental health, social justice, and the empowerment of women and girls in Nigeria.

In addition to his philanthropic activities, Reekado is also involved in the fashion industry, known for his sharp sense of style. His fashion sense has earned him a reputation as one of the most stylish Nigerian artists.

Awards and Recognition

Reekado Banks has earned numerous awards and nominations throughout his career, thanks to his consistent hit songs and contributions to the Nigerian music industry. He has won several Headies awards, including Next Rated in 2015, and Best Pop Single for "Rora". He has also received MTV Africa Music Awards, Nigeria Entertainment Awards, and African Muzik Magazine Awards for his musical achievements.

His songs like "Katapot", "Rora", and "Turn It Up" have earned him recognition both within Nigeria and across the African continent. Reekado's ability to blend African sounds with international music trends has helped him gain recognition from music critics, award shows, and global fans.

Recent Projects and Future Plans

In recent years, Reekado Banks has continued to release new music and expand his artistic horizons. After leaving Mavin Records in 2018, he launched his independent music label, Banks Music, and began to explore new creative avenues. His single "Omo Olomo" released in 2020 was met with positive reception, and he has continued to evolve as an artist, experimenting with new sounds and collaborating with various international artists.

Reekado’s future in music looks bright as he plans to release more singles and albums in the coming years. He has also expressed interest in expanding into other areas of entertainment, such as acting and music production, while continuing to grow his label and influence.

Conclusion

Reekado Banks is one of Nigeria’s most dynamic and successful contemporary artists. From his early days with Mavin Records to his rise as a solo artist, Reekado’s music has resonated with fans across Africa and beyond. His ability to blend Afrobeat with global pop influences, combined with his smooth voice and relatable lyrics, has made him one of the leading stars in the Nigerian music industry. As he continues to evolve and expand his artistic career, Reekado Banks remains one of the brightest young talents in African music.