Zlatan Ibile
Musician, Rapper
Biography
Omoniyi Temidayo Raphael, known professionally as Zlatan Ibile, is a Nigerian singer and rapper known for popularizing the Zanku dance style. He is one of the leading street-hop artists in Nigeria with hits like Zanku, Kilofeshe, and Bolanle.
Early Life
Born in Ilorin, Kwara State, Omoniyi Temidayo Raphael grew up in a household with deep roots in Ekiti State. Raised in a religious home by a father who served as a pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), he discovered his passion for music and street culture early on. After finishing his primary and secondary school, he moved to Ogun State to pursue higher education, graduating with a National Diploma in Business Administration from Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY).
Career
His musical breakthrough came in 2014 after winning the Airtel One Mic Campus Tour talent competition in Abeokuta. He gained widespread national prominence in 2017 following his hit single "My Body" featuring Olamide. By late 2018, he revolutionized the Nigerian music scene by launching the hit track "Zanku", which simultaneously introduced the viral "Leg Work" dance movement across Africa. He has dropped acclaimed studio projects, secured major corporate endorsements, and successfully collaborated with top-tier African icons like Davido and Burna Boy.
Personal Life
He is a proud father and shares a close bond with his young family, balancing his hectic music lifestyle with his parental responsibilities. Having risen from very humble beginnings, he achieved significant financial independence by his mid-twenties, buying his first major property in Lekki, Lagos following his consecutive chart-topping hits.
Fun Facts
He created the viral Zanku dance movement, which stands for "Zlatan Abeg No Kill Us".He studied Business Administration at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic.He founded his own independent record label, Zanku Records, signing various street-pop talents and producers.He initially harboured dreams of becoming a professional football player before turning to music.He has collaborated with many top African artists including Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid, and Tiwa Savage
