A decade and three years have passed since the untimely passing of one of Nigeria’s most pioneering hip-hop and afrobeat artists, Dagrin.
On April 14th, 2010, the music world was left in shock and grief as the young indigenous rapper was involved in a fatal car accident at just 25 years old.
Today, we remember and celebrate the life and times of Dagrin, whose legacy continues to inspire and influence Nigerian music.
Dagrin, whose real name was Oladapo Olaitan Olaonipekun, was born on October 25, 1987, in Ogun State, Nigeria.
Growing up in Meiran, a suburb in Lagos State, Dagrin’s love for music started at a young age. He began his music career as a DJ before transitioning into rapping and making a name for himself on the Lagos music scene.
Dagrin’s music was a unique blend of Yoruba and English lyrics, and his gritty and realistic portrayal of life in the streets of Lagos resonated with many Nigerians.
His debut album “Still On The Matter” released in 2006 was a hit, and he followed it up with his sophomore album “C.E.O.” in 2008, which solidified his position as one of Nigeria’s most talented and influential rappers.
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Beyond his music, Dagrin was known for his humility, kindness, and infectious smile.
He was a true ambassador of Nigerian culture and used his platform to speak truth to power and give a voice to the voiceless. It was evident that he loved and lived for his craft, which was evident in the quality and authenticity of his music.
In a statement by Vuga Music Inc,
“It is with great pleasure that we announce the upcoming release of a 3-track EP titled ‘I Am Dagrin’ on April 20th, 2023, in commemoration of the thirteenth anniversary of his passing.
The EP, released by Vuga Music Inc. in collaboration with Misofunyin Entertainment, features three remastered tracks that showcase Dagrin’s lyrical prowess.
“Track one, “What You Know,” was originally recorded in 2007 and never released. However, Dagrin requested permission to use a verse on his 2009 hit “Pon Pon Pon,” which was released on his final album “C.E.O.” Track two, “Pay My Money,” was also recorded in 2007 but was never released.
“Dagrin, being an honorable artist who always had copyright at the back of his mind, requested permission prior to using the verse as an opener on his iconic Jimmy’s Jumpoff freestyle.
“The third track, “I Am Dagrin,” features popular Nigerian artist Falz and diaspora artist Tmoney Jasi1time. This tribute track has been remastered and is a fitting tribute to Dagrin’s life and music.
“It’s worth noting that without Dagrin, some of Nigeria’s biggest artists today may never have existed. For example, Olamide and the YBNL crew were inspired by Dagrin’s music and his legacy. The biggest afrobeats artist of 2022, Asake, may not have happened if Olamide didn’t sign him to YBNL, and YBNL wouldn’t be what it is today if it weren’t for Olamide trying to be like Dagrin.”
Ralph Amachree,The founder and president of Vuga Music Inc, and D-Squad’s Chris Okekeze revealed that they were childhood friends of Dagrin and were around during the recording of Dagrin’s first studio album “Still On The Matter” between 2005-2006 at Lion’s Studio in Magodo, Lagos, Nigeria. Their personal connection to Dagrin makes this EP even more meaningful, and it’s evident that this is a heartfelt.
