A decade ago, Nigerian music sensation Adekunle Gold unknowingly set the course for his incredible career. It was just another evening when he found himself driving home in his trusty green car, casually tuned in to the radio. Then, magic happened. One Direction’s “Story of My Life” came on, and something about it struck a chord in his heart.
“I thought it was beautiful,” Adekunle reminisced. “The melody and the idea were so good that I pulled out my phone, recorded it, and just left it there.”
That spontaneous moment would later blossom into Sade, the track that became a turning point in his journey to stardom.
For years, the melody remained tucked away, forgotten in his phone, until Adekunle decided to work on an EP reflecting the stories of his life. Revisiting that recording, he realized its potential and poured his heart into transforming it into something extraordinary.
With the help of Olaitan Dada, who produced the song for free and even secured its first radio play, Sade quickly became more than just a One Direction cover—it was a deeply personal anthem. “I just make music about myself or about a story somebody told me,” Adekunle explained. “I think it’s the sincerity that works for me.”
Fast forward ten years, and Adekunle Gold has cemented his place as one of Nigeria’s most celebrated artists. With hits like Rodo, The Life I Chose, and albums like Gold and Tequila Ever After, his music has traveled the world, inspiring fans and winning hearts.
Reflecting on the journey, Adekunle shared, “I can finally play my own song. Thank you for all the years you have and will keep supporting me.”
And so, as we celebrate the 10th anniversary of Sade, we honor the spark that lit up a career—and the sincerity that continues to shine through his music.
