Yemi Alade: Biography, Life, Music & More
Full Name: Yemi Eberechi Alade
Stage Name: Yemi Alade
Date of Birth: March 13, 1989
Place of Birth: Abia State, Nigeria
Nationality: Nigerian
Occupation: Singer, Songwriter, Performer, Actress
Genres: Afrobeats, Afropop, Highlife, R&B
Years Active: 2009 – Present
Record Label: Effyzzie Music Group
Early Life & Background
Yemi Alade was born in Abia State, Nigeria, to a Yoruba father and an Igbo mother, giving her a multicultural background. She grew up in Lagos and attended the University of Lagos, where she studied Geography.
Her musical talent became evident when she won the Peak Talent Show in 2009, which helped her gain recognition in the industry.
Musical Career
Breakthrough & Rise to Fame (2013–2015)
Yemi Alade gained massive fame in 2013 with her hit song “Johnny”, which became an international anthem. The song topped charts across Africa, Europe, and the U.S., making her one of the most successful African female artists.
Her debut album, “King of Queens” (2014), featured other hit songs like:
🔥 Tangerine
🔥 Kissing
Her second album, “Mama Africa” (2016), solidified her status with hits like:
🔥 Na Gode
🔥 Ferrari
Continued Success & International Recognition (2016–Present)
Yemi Alade has continued to release hit songs and albums, making her one of the most streamed female artists in Africa.
Some of her biggest songs include:
✅ Oh My Gosh
✅ Shekere (feat. Angélique Kidjo)
✅ Woman of Steel (album)
✅ Baddie
She has also collaborated with global stars like Beyoncé (on The Lion King: The Gift), Angélique Kidjo, Rick Ross, and more.
Yemi Alade is also known for her electrifying performances, having performed on major stages like Coachella, the Grammys pre-show, and the United Nations events.
Personal Life
Yemi Alade is private about her personal life and relationships, focusing mainly on her music and career.
She is an advocate for women’s empowerment and African culture, often incorporating African fashion and themes into her music and performances.
Awards & Achievements
🏆 MTV Africa Music Awards – Best Female (2015, 2016)
🏆 Headies Awards – Best Performer
🏆 Afrimma Awards – Best Female West Africa
🏆 Nominated for Grammy Award (as part of Beyoncé’s The Lion King: The Gift)
🏆 YouTube’s Most Watched African Female Artist
Style & Influence
Yemi Alade is known as “Mama Africa”, celebrating African culture in her music, fashion, and performances. She sings in multiple languages, including English, Yoruba, Igbo, Swahili, and French, making her a true Pan-African artist.
She is also a UNDP Goodwill Ambassador, using her influence to advocate for social causes.
Conclusion
Yemi Alade is one of Africa’s biggest female artists, known for her powerful voice, vibrant performances, and cultural pride. From “Johnny” to international collaborations, she has remained at the top of her game.