Renowned Nigerian singer Oluwatobi Wande Ojosipe, popularly known as Wande Coal, has asserted his role in shaping the modern sound of Nigerian music and inspiring the current wave of globally recognized Afrobeats artists.
In a recent interview with Cool FM Lagos, the “Bumper 2 Bumper” hitmaker reflected on his influential career. “I’m the best at what I do. I’m a legend. I know what I came to this industry to do. I brought the new generation of sound and the new wave of new artists that are happening now,” Wande Coal stated.
Despite his significant achievements, Wande Coal remains committed to evolving as an artist. “I’m happy to be that guy that has done it. Also, I still want to do more. I feel like music never ends. Music is very universal. That’s why there are many genres of music,” he explained. “All these sounds I try to fuse them in my music. That’s why none of my songs sound alike. Since I came into the industry, I’ve shown versatility in my songs. I also love working with new producers because music never ends.”
Wande Coal began his career as a dancer before joining Don Jazzy’s Mo’ Hits Records in 2006. His notable contributions included features on D’banj’s “Rundown/Funk You Up” album, with tracks such as “Loke,” “Tonosibe,” and “Why Me.” His breakthrough single, “Ololufe,” from Mo’ Hits’ compilation album “CV (Curriculum Vitae),” was followed by his critically acclaimed debut album “Mushin To Mo’Hits.” The album featured hits like “Bumper 2 Bumper,” “Kiss Your Hands,” and “Who Born The Maga.”
In 2010, Wande Coal won the Next Rated award at the Headies, formerly known as the Hip Hop World Awards. His influence is widely recognized, with artists like Wizkid, Fireboy DML, and Oxlade crediting him as a major inspiration.
Oreoluwa is an accountant and a brand writer with a flair for journalism.