Rising Afrobeats star Fido is the featured guest on this week’s episode of Africa Now Radio with Nandi Madida on Apple Music 1, where he opens up about his journey, inspirations, and what fans can expect from his latest musical offerings. Joining Madida via FaceTime, Fido discusses his emotional new single “I Miss You Die”, his deeply personal EP ‘Olayemi’, and his recent collaboration with Kizz Daniel on the remix of “Joy is Coming.”
The fast-rising Nigerian artist is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about voices in Afrobeats, and in this intimate conversation, he gives fans a glimpse into the stories, struggles, and spiritual moments that have shaped his career.
Fido’s musical journey began not in a recording studio, but in the church. “I attended the PEFTI Film Institute and studied music technology,” he shares. “That really shaped my journey. I want to say ‘big up’ to my lecturers, my producer, and my production manager. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
But it was in church that his raw talent first found a platform. “My mom is a Christian mother and she always told me, ‘You should work for God,’” he says. “So I joined the choir. I knew I had talent, and I felt like that was the right place to start. That started it all.”
Fido credits a blend of local and international artists for inspiring his sound. “Wizkid was my top rising artist back then, along with 2Face, Olamide, Burna Boy, and Davido,” he explains. “But I also draw inspiration from international music—it’s about connecting with the right sound. That’s how you grow.”
Catch Fido on this Friday’s episode of Africa Now Radio with Nandi Madida, only on Apple Music
The story behind Fido’s breakout 2024 hit “Awolowo” is one of struggle and serendipity. Named after the legendary Nigerian statesman, the track emerged during a dark moment in his life.
“I was broke, sitting with my producer, and I was high. I didn’t know what was next,” he recalls. “Then the beat dropped, and I felt something shift. The words came instantly. I told my producer, ‘Don’t pause that beat!’ I didn’t know it would be a hit, but I had faith. And when I dropped it, God said, ‘This is your time.’
Fido’s newly released EP ‘Olayemi’ is more than a collection of songs—it’s a reflection of his life story. “That’s my name,” he says. “It tells the story of my journey from the hood in Ogun State to becoming a global artist. Each of the eight tracks carries a part of my story—my childhood, my struggles, my growth. It’s me discovering myself.”
One of the standout moments on the EP is Fido’s collaboration with Nigerian heavyweight Kizz Daniel on the remix of “Joy is Coming.” For Fido, the decision to work with Kizz was both strategic and personal.
“Kizz Daniel is one of Nigeria’s greatest artists,” he says. “He’s made such an impact globally. My fans kept asking when we’d do a song together, so I decided to surprise them. I believe in giving the fans what they want. Once they’re satisfied, everything else will fall into place.”
Fido sees his rise not just as personal success, but as part of a wider movement within Nigerian music. “It feels like I’m breaking out of a cage I’ve been stuck in for years,” he says. “Now, I’m free to showcase my talent to the world.”
He adds, “It’s an honor to be part of a legacy that started with legends. When they talk about the artists shaping Afrobeats, I want my name to be on that list. This is just the beginning. All thanks to God—it’s been God all the way.”
In addition to Fido’s interview, host Nandi Madida also spotlights the week’s most buzzworthy new music from across the continent. This week’s playlist includes fresh releases from Rema, Tiwa Savage feat. Skepta, DJ Boat, Supa Gaeta & Shaker, DJ Zinhle, Liema Pantsi, MÖRDA & Mthunzi, and Cici, BoyPee & Hyce.
When and Where to Tune In
Don’t miss the full episode airing Friday, August 1st at:
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9 a.m. (Lagos/London)
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10 a.m. (Johannesburg/Paris)
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1 a.m. (Los Angeles)
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4 a.m. (New York City)
Catch it live on Apple Music 1 at apple.co/_AfricaNow, and also on Cool FM Nigeria and YFM Ghana:
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YFM Accra – Sundays at 2 p.m.
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YFM Kumasi – Saturdays at 3 p.m.
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YFM Takoradi – Saturdays at 6 p.m.
Whether you’re an Afrobeats fanatic or just discovering the sound, Africa Now Radio offers a front-row seat to the artists shaping the sound of a continent—and Fido’s story is one you won’t want to miss.
