YBNL boss Olamide has once again paid tribute to late indigenous rapper Dagrin, crediting him as one of the biggest influences on his music career.
In a recent video broadcast, the award-winning rapper spoke passionately about Dagrin’s impact on Nigerian hip-hop and how his album C.E.O remains a source of motivation for rappers, especially those from the South-West.
“Dagrin’s C.E.O album is a timeless project”, he said. “That’s the only rap album almost everybody in the South-West can sing word for word. Dagrin influenced a lot of rappers. Whenever we need motivation, we would go and listen to his album.”
The Rock crooner revealed that he still turns to Dagrin’s music whenever he faces creative blocks, describing the late rapper’s artistry as pure and inspiring.
Dagrin, who died in a tragic auto crash in April 2010, is often regarded as one of the pioneers of indigenous rap in Nigeria. His storytelling, street appeal, and fusion of Yoruba and English lyrics reshaped the rap scene, paving the way for artists like Olamide, CDQ, Reminisce, and others.
Following Olamide’s tribute, fellow rapper Trod, who is also Dagrin’s younger brother took to X to appreciate Baddo’s acknowledgment:
“Thank you Baddo for keeping the legacy up. It takes a real legend like you to say this”, Trod wrote. “I wish big homie was alive, it would have been amazing to have you both on a record. Respect King @Olamide 👑 #LivinLegend #GRINLIVESON #CEO.”
More than a decade after his passing, Dagrin’s influence continues to echo across generations of Nigerian rappers, a testament to the enduring power of his music and message.