Afrobeats star Fireboy DML has opened up about how close he came to abandoning his music dreams before his life-changing deal with Olamide’s YBNL Nation.
In a heartfelt conversation on the 90s Baby Show in London, the ‘Peru’ hitmaker revealed that he was on the verge of becoming a petty trader, despite holding a bachelor’s degree. According to him, he had already begun plans to sell rechargeable lamps under Ajah Bridge in Lagos when his big break arrived.
“Thank God for that [Olamide signing me]. I was considering selling rechargeable lamps. I met one guy under Ajah Bridge, he was telling me about the business and I told him I was interested.”
Before that, Fireboy said he was selling pepper soup at a small joint to survive. However, he felt drawn to the lamp business because it seemed “more dignified” at the time.
“To me, at the time, it was more dignified. At least, people will say you’re a lamp seller. But selling pepper soup is crazy, bro. My parents didn’t know I was doing menial jobs. It was crazy, but now, we thank God.”
From Hustle to Headliner
Fireboy DML, whose real name is Adedamola Adefolahan, was signed to YBNL in 2018 — and interestingly, the deal happened via WhatsApp. That same year, he caught the public’s attention with Jealous, a breakout single on YBNL’s Mafia Family compilation.
In 2019, he released his debut album Laughter, Tears and Goosebumps, a project that solidified his place in the Nigerian music scene and beyond. Now known globally for hits like Peru, Fireboy continues to shine, but he hasn’t forgotten the path that almost led him to a roadside hustle.
His story is not just one of talent, but also of resilience, humility, and divine timing — a powerful reminder that even when things look bleak, the next message on your phone could change your life forever.
