Wizkid, born Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, is one of Africa’s biggest music exports and a pioneer of modern Afrobeats.
Beyond being a globally celebrated singer, Wizkid is also an entrepreneur who runs his own record label.
So, what is Wizkid’s record label?
Wizkid’s record label is Starboy Entertainment, which he founded in 2013 after leaving Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E).
The label has signed artists and producers like Maleek Berry, Legendary Beatz, L.A.X, Efya, Mr. Eazi, R2Bees, and Terri.
Over the years, Starboy Entertainment has grown into one of Nigeria’s most influential labels, shaping Afrobeats and exporting it worldwide.
Early Beginnings: Wizkid Under E.M.E
Before founding Starboy Entertainment, Wizkid was signed to Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E), run by Banky W and Tunde Demuren.
He joined in 2009 and released his debut album Superstar (2011).
Songs like Holla at Your Boy and Tease Me made him a household name.
His time at E.M.E gave him the foundation and industry network to eventually launch his own record label.
Founding of Starboy Entertainment (2013)
In 2013, Wizkid ended his contract with E.M.E and announced the creation of Starboy Entertainment. His vision was to:
Have creative freedom over his music.
Sign and develop new African talent.
Build a brand that would extend beyond Nigeria.
The first signees were Maleek Berry, Legendary Beatz, and L.A.X, setting the tone for a label that would blend music production with performance.
Key Artists Signed to Starboy
- Maleek Berry – British-Nigerian producer and singer, signed in 2013.
- Legendary Beatz – Producer duo (Uzezi and Okiemute Oniko), signed in 2013.
- L.A.X – Singer who featured in Wizkid’s hit Caro, signed in 2013.
- Efya – Ghanaian singer signed in 2016.
- Mr. Eazi – Nigerian singer signed in 2016.
- R2Bees – Ghanaian hip-hop duo signed in 2016.
- Terri – Nigerian singer signed in 2018, best known for Soco.
Impact of Starboy Entertainment on Afrobeats
Starboy Entertainment played a massive role in globalizing Afrobeats.
Caro (with L.A.X) put the label on the map.
Soco (featuring Terri, Spotless, and Ceeza Milli) became an anthem across Africa.
Starboy artists collaborated with international stars, giving Afrobeats more reach.
Challenges and Transitions
Like most labels, Starboy Entertainment has had ups and downs.
L.A.X eventually left to start his solo journey.
Mr. Eazi and R2Bees also focused more on independent projects.
Despite these exits, Wizkid maintained the label as a family-oriented platform where collaborations mattered more than contractual ties.
Comparison with Other Nigerian Labels
Starboy Entertainment stands alongside Davido Music Worldwide (DMW), YBNL Nation (Olamide), and Spaceship Entertainment (Burna Boy).
While DMW is known for aggressive signings,
YBNL for nurturing street talent,
Starboy Entertainment focuses on quality, exclusivity, and cross-border collaborations.
Legacy and Future of Starboy Entertainment
Starboy Entertainment has already cemented its place in African music history. Wizkid uses it not just as a label but also as a movement — representing African youth, culture, and creativity.
Looking ahead, the label may expand into signing younger Afrobeats and Amapiano artists, while also exploring tech, fashion, and entertainment partnerships.
Conclusion
Wizkid’s record label, Starboy Entertainment, is more than just a music company — it is a cultural movement that has elevated Afrobeats onto the world stage.
Founded in 2013, the label has signed some of Africa’s finest artists and producers, pushing the boundaries of sound and creativity.
