TL;DR: Nigerian artist Reekado Banks reflects on his earlier conflict with Wizkid, which arose from a 2020 disagreement during the #EndSARS protests related to the release of their track “Omo Olomo.” Regretting his choice due to outside influences, Reekado recognized the value of trusting his gut. The two have since made amends, with Wizkid offering an apology, showcasing growth and shared experiences.
Reekado Banks Discusses Previous Conflict with Wizkid
In an open conversation on a recent podcast, Reekado Banks, the skilled Nigerian artist, revisited his challenging past with fellow musician Wizkid, illuminating how their relationship has changed over time. The duo’s public dispute, which surfaced during the 2020 #EndSARS protests, paints a captivating picture of reconciliation and personal development amid the pressures of the music industry.
The 2020 Disagreement: An Ill-Timed Launch
The feud between Reekado Banks and Wizkid began when Reekado revealed the release of their joint single “Omo Olomo.” Amid that pivotal moment in Nigeria’s sociopolitical climate, where citizens were protesting against police violence, Wizkid openly criticized Reekado’s choice to push a song. The ensuing backlash from the public and media was immediate, heightening the friction between the two musicians.
Looking back on those circumstances, Reekado conveyed remorse over his choice to drop “Omo Olomo.” He admitted to having doubts about the timing of the release but felt compelled by his management to move forward. This experience imparted a crucial lesson on the necessity of standing firm in his beliefs and trusting his instincts. For an artist, maintaining creative control is essential, particularly during challenging times.
Insights Gained: Relying on His Intuition
Reekado’s reflections highlight an important lesson in the music sector: artists ought to prioritize their creative vision over external forces. The ordeal not only influenced his professional path but also impacted his personal life. He recognized that trusting his intuition has become a fundamental tenet in his career, enabling him to handle challenges more adeptly.
This incident marked a crucial moment for Reekado, encouraging him to assume a more proactive role in decisions related to his music. This newfound clarity has empowered him to engage in projects that align with his true self, ultimately forging a deeper bond with his audience.
| Category | Reekado Banks | Wizkid |
|---|---|---|
| Breakout Moment | Winner of Headies’ Next Rated (2015), popular for hits like Katapot and Easy Jeje | Global breakthrough with Ojuelegba, international fame from Come Closer |
| Conflict Origin | Released Omo Olomo with Wizkid during #EndSARS despite social climate | Publicly criticized Reekado for releasing music during protests |
| Role in the Dispute | Regrets release timing; felt pressure from management | Called out the release as “tone-deaf” during a sensitive national moment |
| Key Lesson Learned | Learned to trust his gut and take control of release decisions | Later apologized — recognizing the human behind the artist |
| Artistic Outlook | Emphasizes personal intuition, seeks deeper audience connection | Prioritizes timing, impact, and cultural resonance in releases |
| Reconciliation | Open to healing; bonded with Wizkid over shared grief and maturity | Issued apology, showing growth and willingness to mend relationships |
| Public Persona | Thoughtful, introspective, less mainstream | Starboy persona, larger-than-life, global ambassador of Afrobeats |
| Creative Control | Evolving toward independent decision-making | Known for curating every aspect of his music and collaborations |
| Fanbase Reach | Strong Nigerian/West African base, building steady global appeal | Global fanbase across Africa, U.S., UK, and Latin markets |
| Symbolic Value Today | Example of resilience and maturity in the industry | Represents evolution, dominance, and humility post-conflict |
Reconciliation: A Move Towards Restoration
Fast forward to today, and the storyline has transformed from conflict to reconciliation. Reekado Banks disclosed that he and Wizkid have now reconciled. The duo found common ground through shared experiences, including their personal losses, which acted as a catalyst for healing. The power of empathy and understanding often bridges the gaps created by misunderstandings, and in this case, it has nurtured a renewed friendship.
Wizkid’s apology for his previous remarks signified an important milestone in their relationship. Acknowledging mistakes plays a crucial role in personal growth, and both artists have shown their ability to learn from past experiences. This reconciliation not only repairs their bond but also delivers a powerful message to their fans about the significance of forgiveness and progression.
The Influence of Personal Experiences on Creativity
Both Reekado and Wizkid have dealt with personal difficulties that reflected in their artistic outputs. As public figures, their music frequently mirrors their life journeys, and moments of vulnerability can resonate deeply with their fans. The capability to translate personal challenges into art not only enriches their musical narratives but also strengthens the connection with their audience.
Reekado’s experience illustrates that resilience in adversity can result in remarkable artistic growth. The lessons distilled from his past disputes contribute to a deeper, more refined understanding of his craft.
Conclusion: A Path of Growth and Renewal
Reekado Banks’ reflections on his earlier conflict with Wizkid reveal a journey filled with personal development and significant reconciliation. From managing external pressures to understanding the importance of trusting one’s intuition, Reekado has emerged with invaluable insights that extend beyond the music scene. As both artists continue to grow, their narrative serves as a testament to the healing power of forgiveness and the value of genuine connections in both personal and professional spheres. Through shared experiences and mutual understanding, even the most daunting relationships can find a route to renewal.
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