If there is one artist whose rise shocked the entire Nigerian music industry, it is Shallipopi. One minute he was another young Edo boy grinding on the streets, and the next he became the official “Pluto Presido,” dominating TikTok, topping charts, and launching his own record label.
In this article, I’m breaking down the real truth behind how Shallipopi became famous — not the watered-down version you see everywhere, but the actual journey, patterns, sacrifices, and viral triggers that turned him into a superstar.
Before you continue, you can also read his full life story here:
Shallipopi Biography
How Did Shallipopi Really Get Famous?
Shallipopi got famous through a combination of TikTok virality, unique lamba-driven lyrics, street-friendly beats, a strong Edo cultural identity, and a breakout hit — “Elon Musk.”
That single track changed everything for him. It didn’t just trend; it became a cultural moment in Nigeria. From clubs to campuses to TikTok challenges, “Elon Musk” spread like wildfire.
1. His Music Was Different From Everyone Else
Shallipopi didn’t try to sound like anyone else. He didn’t force Afrobeats vocals or polished melodies. He came with his own raw vibe — a spiritual blend of:
- Street lamba
- Edo chants
- Off-beat rhythmic flows
- Playful but catchy slang
- Humor mixed with confidence
This uniqueness is what made Nigerians pause and say, “Who be this guy?”
The Edo Influence
Many people didn’t know Shallipopi was proudly Edo until he started dropping slangs, chants, and patterns that reflected the culture. That identity helped him stand out immediately.
To learn where he is really from, read:
What Part of Edo Is Shallipopi From?
2. “Elon Musk” Was the Turning Point
In Nigeria, you don’t need 20 songs to blow — you just need one song that hits the streets at the right time. “Elon Musk” was that song.
Here’s why it blew up:
- The lamba was addictive
- The beat was simple but spiritual
- The hook was extremely catchy
- Clubs and DJs embraced it instantly
- It was perfect for TikTok challenges
Almost overnight, Shallipopi became a household name.
If you’re curious about his other hit songs, check this article:
Shallipopi’s Most Popular Song
3. TikTok Was His Biggest Weapon
Whether people like to admit it or not, TikTok has created more Nigerian stars in the last 5 years than any record label. And Shallipopi knew how to work the platform.
He posted consistently, used catchy edits, interacted with influencers, and understood the kind of sound TikTok users love for:
- Dance challenges
- Funny skits
- Lip-sync videos
Within a short time, his sound became a viral template.
4. His Brotherhood Energy Boosted His Brand
One thing people love about Shallipopi’s journey is that he didn’t climb alone. He always showed love to his brothers and day-ones. This helped him build an organic, loyal fanbase.
To understand more about his family influence, check this article:
How Many Brothers Does Shallipopi Have?
5. His Arrest Ironically Boosted His Fame
This may sound strange, but let’s be honest — controversies have helped a lot of Nigerian artists blow faster. When Shallipopi had that brief EFCC issue, it didn’t destroy his career; instead, it made him even more popular.
Nigerians started seeing him as:
- A street king
- A survivor
- A guy with a spiritual destiny
That entire moment boosted the Pluto narrative.
6. Zlatan and Fireboy Jumping on the Remix Changed Everything
The day Zlatan announced he was jumping on the “Elon Musk” remix, Shallipopi’s career entered another level entirely. The collaboration:
- Gave him mainstream credibility
- Brought older fans to his music
- Pushed the song into official charts
After that, even people who didn’t vibe with his lamba started paying attention.
7. Launching Plutomania Records Was the Final Stamp
Nothing boosts a young artist’s brand like independence. The moment Shallipopi launched Plutomania Records, the industry officially recognized him as a serious force.
His fanbase grew even more because Nigerians love self-made success stories.
If you want to know how much he’s worth, read:
Shallipopi Net Worth
8. His Unique Personality Made Fans Love Him Instantly
Some artists blow because of their music; others blow because of their personality. Shallipopi has both. His interviews, freestyle videos, and social media presence show a guy who is:
- Funny
- Sarcastic
- Confident
- Unpredictable
- Real and unfiltered
Nigerians love authenticity, and Shallipopi delivers it without forcing anything.
9. Awards and Recognition Started Following Him
After his rise, the nominations and major recognitions began to roll in. Even before winning certain awards, the industry was already calling him the new king of street pop.
You can check his awards breakdown here:
Has Shallipopi Won Any Award?
10. The Pluto Movement Became a Cultural Identity
Shallipopi didn’t just blow; he created a movement — “Pluto.”
People started calling themselves:
- Pluto citizens
- Pluto gang
- Pluto nation
This branding helped him build a loyal, permanent fanbase that pushes every song he drops.
11. His Manager and Team Played a Big Role
No artist blows alone. The people around you can determine how far you go, and Shallipopi has a strong, organized management behind him.
You can meet the brain behind the scenes here:
Who Is Shallipopi’s Manager?
12. The Sherydll Rumor Added More Attention
The rumor about Shallipopi and Sherydll being related also added fuel to his fame. Fans love stories, and this one went viral quickly.
The real truth is explained here:
Is Sherydll Related to Shallipopi?
Conclusion
Shallipopi blew up because he was different, original, and fearless. He didn’t wait for the industry to accept him — he forced his style into the system until everyone submitted.
From TikTok virality to cultural branding, family support, and consistency, his rise is one of the fastest we’ve seen in recent years.
To read more about his personal life and journey, check out these articles:
