Nigerian singer Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has opened up about his decision to relocate to Los Angeles, California, joining a growing list of Nigerian stars including Ayra Starr, Tems, Wizkid, Adekunle Gold, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, and Banky W, who have made the move to the United States.
In an interview with Office Magazine published on Monday, the 30-year-old singer revealed that the move was strictly motivated by career considerations, emphasizing that it has not affected his values, identity, or connection to home.
The “Lonely at the Top” and “Mr Money with the Vibe” hitmaker explained that while the environment may have changed, his outlook on life and music remains the same.
“To be honest, it’s still the same thing. Humans are the same. People are trying to make it in Nigeria. People are trying to make it in America. People are rich in Nigeria. People are rich in America. People buy new houses every day in Nigeria. People buy new homes in America every day,” Asake said.
He added that Los Angeles provides opportunities to meet new people and gain more exposure, but he still views talent and ambition as universal, noting that there are exceptional talents both in Nigeria and in LA.
When asked how he stayed grounded despite relocating to a bustling city, Asake revealed that he spends a lot of time alone. According to him, solitude helps him remain in tune with himself and keeps him focused on his work.
Asake also spoke about the beginnings of his music career, sharing that he had not initially planned to become a musician. He was first drawn to acting, stage performances, and monologues. However, growing up around musically inclined parents and friends eventually led him to music.
“My mom loves so much good music. My dad is deep into music. So unknowingly, I have it in me already. That was not my priority when I was young; I wanted to be a dancer or a choreographer. But I think when I went to university in 2013, I ended up being around friends who do music too. Then you end up making a song. Then the whole school went crazy on the song,” he recalled.
The singer also confirmed that his current performance style remains true to how he has always performed, emphasizing that his artistic approach has not fundamentally changed despite relocating.
Asake’s move comes less than a month after his colleague, Sarah “Ayra Starr” Aderibigbe, announced her relocation to New York City, further signaling the growing trend of Nigerian artistes moving to the United States to expand their careers and reach a global audience.
With this relocation, Asake joins a wave of Nigerian talents seeking international exposure while remaining rooted in their Nigerian identity, demonstrating the increasing global influence of Afrobeats and African entertainment.
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