Controversial Nigerian artist Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, recently revealed that renowned rapper and YBNL founder Olamide is his mentor in the music industry.
In a recent interview with Echo Room, Portable shared that Olamide faced criticism for collaborating on the remix of his breakout hit “Zazu” in 2021.
Despite the backlash, Portable has since gained international recognition, notably through his collaboration with British rapper Skepta.
“When Olamide helped me, people said he made a mistake. Look at me now, I have gone international and Skepta featured me. I’m touring the world,” he said.
In related new, Portable thanked renowned rapper Olamide for his contributions to his success in the industry.
Portable, in a recent interview on the Afrobeat podcast, stated that his unique style has garnered him respect and emphasized Olamide’s crucial role in driving him from the streets to popularity.
The “Zazuu Zeh” singer issued an emotional message, emphasizing Olamide’s unwavering support and belief in his abilities, which have propelled him to unparalleled heights in the music industry.
Portable reflected on the days when he would perform for merely N200 at events.
He expressed his profound appreciation for Olamide’s genuine act of signing and sponsoring him without any stipulations.
He complimented the YBNL boss for providing him opportunities, despite the fact that many questioned his ability.
In his words;
“If not for Olamide, I would’ve still been on the streets. I went to London and collaborated with the best rapper in the UK and it’s all thanks to Olamide. When nobody believed in me, you told me that I was gonna make it and I’ve made it bigger than I ever thought.
Olamide is a boss, he sponsored me without signing me and never asked for anything in return and that’s why I respect him so much. Some people use me to do bläck business but Olamide is the only guy in this industry who showed me love.
Olamide paved the way for me, he’s my boss and God used him to bless me. I’m from streets and I’ve been through a lot but I thank God for sending Olamide to me. I used to perform for N200 before Olamide helped me and he didn’t rip me like most people do in this industry.
Paving the way for someone doesn’t only mean inspiring them, but it involves making things easier for those who come after you and that’s exactly what Olamide has done for a lot of artistes.”