Lagos to London: Yeankeyz Pay Homage To Nigerian Music Pioneers

Yeankeyz, a respected Nigerian music producer and artiste now based in the UK, credits his success to the foundational figures who mentored him in Lagos, especially ID Cabasa.

Mayowa Adeyinka Orenuga popularly called Yeankeyz began his journey amidst the bustling streets of Lagos, Nigeria where he worked with legendary icons such as Olamide, Reminisce, 9ice, and the late Sound Sultan. These collaborations helped him develop his signature style, which seamlessly blends traditional Nigerian sounds with contemporary international influences.

In his recent interview, Yeankeyz emphasized the importance of mentorship in his career. “Growing up in Lagos, living with ID Cabasa, hearing from Don Jazzy, Baba Keke Ogungbe and other people we looked up to, I learned the true essence of Nigerian music with its authenticity, rhythm, and cultural relevance,” he explained.

This early exposure to the industry’s inner workings obviously laid the groundwork for his innovative approach to production and artistry.

As we gathered, Yeankeyz is leveraging his international experience to elevate Nigerian street music onto the global stage. His upcoming single, “KOKO,” scheduled for release on May 30, 2025, is set to showcase his unique fusion of Afrobeat and street-hop. The energetic track, produced entirely by Yeankeyz, embodies his vision of creating culturally authentic yet globally appealing sounds.

Yeankeyz also expressed pride in Nigeria’s evolving music industry, which now boasts more recognition for behind-the-scenes talent. “The industry is growing, and platforms like Headies and AMVCA are acknowledging the work of producers, sound engineers, and creatives behind the scenes. That’s a positive step forward,” he said. His respect for industry pioneers like ID Cabasa underscores his commitment to preserving and advancing Nigeria’s musical legacy.

Looking ahead, Yeankeyz plans to expand into entrepreneurship, with ventures in fashion and tech, alongside his music career. His strategic move into business reflects his desire to build a lasting legacy that transcends music alone. “My goal is to bridge Nigerian street sounds with the world, and to inspire young creatives be it artistes, visual designers, fashion icons or even music producers to follow their dreams,” he stated confidently.