In the fast-paced, fame-driven world of Afrobeats, headlines are often dominated by the hits platinum-selling tracks, viral dance crazes, and record-shattering streams. But beneath the glitz lies a less glamorous, often overlooked reality: many of the genre’s brightest stars were once underdogs, hustling in the shadows, waiting for someone to give them a chance.
For several rising names including Bella Shmurda, Poco Lee, and Shallipopi that someone was Zlatan Ibile.
With his electrifying presence, breakout hit Zanku (Legwork), and energetic stage persona, Zlatan is known globally for his musical influence. But within the industry, especially among emerging talents, he is just as famous for his humility, generosity, and unwavering support for the underdog.
The Bella Shmurda Story: A Door Opened
Bella Shmurda’s story is a powerful testament to this spirit. Recalling his early days before fame, Bella shared a candid moment in a recent interview that sheds light on how Zlatan’s open-hearted nature helped change his life:
“Poco Lee was living with Zlatan and I was still in Mainland, struggling. One day he told me, ‘Bella, come to Island, come stay with us. We go just dey manage for here small small.’ I thought about it and decided to take that chance. When I got there, Zlatan received me with open hands. I was shocked we had never even met before.”
What followed was more than just a roof over his head. Bella described how Zlatan became a source of daily inspiration:
“Anytime he’s in the studio, he always calls me in. He’d share words of motivation and push me to keep going. That support meant everything at that point in my life.”
Poco Lee: From Couch to Camera
Before becoming one of Nigeria’s most sought-after dancers and hype men, Poco Lee was a struggling talent with no stable home. Zlatan’s apartment became both sanctuary and springboard a literal and figurative launchpad for a career now filled with high-profile collaborations, viral dance appearances, and international recognition.
While staying with Zlatan, Poco Lee’s unique dance moves caught the attention of top-tier artists. Videos shot in that same apartment began to circulate, eventually making him a household name. But behind every shuffle and spin was the unseen support of a man who believed in him before the world did.
Shallipopi: An Investment in Potential
Zlatan’s belief in upcoming talents doesn’t stop at words or shelter. Another standout example is Shallipopi, whose track Elon Musk caught fire in 2023. Recognizing its potential, Zlatan hopped on the remix a move that elevated the song’s reach. But his support went deeper: according to industry insiders, Zlatan also provided Shallipopi with financial support, helping him invest in his music career, branding, and distribution.
For an artist still finding his footing, that kind of backing can be transformative.
More Than a Mentor A Movement
This pattern of lifting others is drawing strong comparisons between Zlatan and Olamide, the YBNL boss widely credited with launching the careers of Fireboy DML, Asake, Lil Kesh, and others. Both artists share a rare trait: they remember where they came from and they use their success not to rise alone, but to elevate others.
“Zlatan reminds us of Olamide,” one industry analyst noted. “He forgets he’s a star. He comes down from his high horse to make space for others. That’s real leadership.”
In a music landscape often dominated by competition and gatekeeping, Zlatan is carving out a different legacy one defined not just by hits, but by hearts touched, lives changed, and doors opened.
Final Thoughts
As the global Afrobeats wave continues to surge, it’s easy to miss the quieter contributions the acts of kindness, the rooms offered, the studio sessions that included a newcomer instead of turning them away.
But for Bella Shmurda, Poco Lee, and Shallipopi and surely many more to come Zlatan Ibile’s impact isn’t just a footnote in their journey. It’s the foundation.
So the next time you dance to a Zanku beat or sing along to the latest Bella Shmurda anthem, remember: behind the music is a man who gave others more than just a chance he gave them a home, a platform, and a future.
