Why I adopted my mom’s name as stage name – Asake

Nigerian singer Ahmed Ololade, better known as Asake, has been making significant strides in the music industry.

His music is infectious, but what truly sets him apart is his stage name – a name that has piqued the curiosity of many. In a recent interview with CNN, Asake unveiled the intriguing story behind his unconventional choice of stage name, shedding light on the personal journey that led him to embrace it.

Asake’s stage name has been a subject of intrigue for both fans and casual observers. While some may question the name’s femininity, Asake explained that its origins lie in the banter of his friends. He recounted how they playfully called him “omo Asake, omo Asake” – a term that translates to “child of Asake.” Over time, they dropped the “omo” and simply began referring to him as Asake.

This playful nickname struck a chord with Asake, leading him to adopt it as his stage persona. What’s fascinating is that this choice allows him to challenge stereotypes and expectations. When introduced on stage, audiences often anticipate a beautiful lady or a nice girl, and Asake enjoys the element of surprise that follows. Moreover, he expressed his deep love and appreciation for his mother, making the connection to her name all the more meaningful.

But Asake’s journey into music has roots that run deeper than just a unique stage name. He revealed that his upbringing played a pivotal role in shaping his passion for the arts. His father was a singer, and his mother had a penchant for dancing. While his parents pursued these artistic interests for the sheer joy of it rather than professionally, it cultivated a love for performance within the family.

Interestingly, Asake also had a profound love for dance, but he made a pivotal choice in favor of music. He candidly admitted that the primary reason for this shift was financial. He believed that the music industry offered greater financial rewards than dance. However, he recognizes the synergy between music and dance, emphasizing that they complement each other, and a music video without dancers can lack vibrancy.