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| Biography of Joeboy and Achievements |
Early Life and Background
Joseph Akinwale Akinfenwa-Donus, popularly known as Joeboy, was born on May 21, 1997, in Lagos, Nigeria. He grew up in a music-loving family, which influenced his passion for singing and songwriting from an early age.
Joeboy studied Human Resource Management at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), but his love for music eventually took center stage. Inspired by African music legends such as 9ice and ID Cabasa, he began experimenting with covers and original songs during his university days.
Music Career and Breakthrough
Joeboy’s journey to fame took a significant turn in 2017 when he uploaded a cover of Ed Sheeran’s Shape of You on social media. The video caught the attention of Mr Eazi, who later signed him to the emPawa Africa mentorship program, a platform designed to support emerging African artists.
In 2019, Joeboy released Baby, a love ballad that became an instant hit across Nigeria and Africa. The song introduced him as one of the new voices of Afropop and Afrobeats, gaining millions of streams and heavy radio play.
Following Baby, he dropped another chart-topping single, Beginning, which showcased his signature blend of smooth vocals and catchy lyrics.
Albums and Career Growth
In 2019, Joeboy released his debut EP, Love & Light, featuring hits like Baby, Beginning, All for You, and Don’t Call Me Back featuring Mayorkun. The project cemented his reputation as one of the fastest-rising stars in the Nigerian music scene.
In 2021, he released his debut studio album, Somewhere Between Beauty & Magic (SBBM), a 14-track project centered on themes of love and romance. The album received positive reviews for its consistency and artistry.
Joeboy continued to expand his reach globally with songs like Sip (Alcohol) (2021), which became a viral sensation on TikTok and other platforms, further solidifying his place as a hitmaker.
Achievements and Awards
Since his breakthrough, Joeboy has earned recognition both locally and internationally. Some of his achievements include:
Winner of Best Artiste in African Pop at the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) 2019.
Nominated for multiple Headies Awards including Next Rated.
Over 500 million streams across platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.
Collaborations with major artists like Kwesi Arthur, Mayorkun, CKay, and Mr Eazi.
Musical Style and Influence
Joeboy is known for his Afropop and R&B-inspired sound, often centered on themes of love, heartbreak, and youthful passion. His smooth voice, relatable lyrics, and ability to connect emotionally with listeners make him stand out among his peers.
He represents the new generation of Nigerian artists redefining the global image of Afrobeats.
Personal Life
Joeboy keeps his personal life private, choosing to let his music speak for him. Despite his fame, he is known for maintaining a humble personality and focusing on his craft.
Legacy and Impact
From uploading a simple cover song to becoming one of Nigeria’s biggest Afropop exports, Joeboy’s story is a testament to talent, consistency, and the power of platforms like emPawa Africa.
With multiple hits, millions of fans, and international recognition, Joeboy is steadily building a legacy as one of the voices shaping modern Afrobeats.


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