 |
| Biography of Skales, Music and Achievements |
Early Life and Background
Raoul John Njeng-Njeng, popularly known as Skales, was born on April 1, 1991, in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Raised by a single mother, Skales grew up in a modest home where his passion for music began early. His mother owned a small cassette store, which exposed him to different sounds and fueled his love for hip-hop and Afrobeat.
He attended University of Jos briefly before transferring to Lead City University, Ibadan, where he studied Office Management and Technology.
Musical Career and Breakthrough
Skales started writing rap songs during his teenage years and gained recognition after winning the Zain Tru Search competition in the North-Central region of Nigeria in 2008.
In 2009, he signed with Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E.), a label co-owned by Banky W, where he worked alongside Wizkid, Niyola, and Shaydee. His early singles under E.M.E., such as “Mukulu” and “Heading for a Grammy”, introduced him to mainstream audiences.
After leaving E.M.E. in 2014, Skales founded his own label, OHK Music, and released his debut album “Man of the Year” (2015). The project featured the massive hit “Shake Body”, which became one of the biggest Afropop songs of that year and established Skales as a star in his own right.
Popular Songs by Skales
Shake Body
Temper (Remix ft. Burna Boy)
Booty Language ft. Sarkodie
Always ft. Davido
I Am for Real
Konibaje
Albums and EPs
Man of the Year (2015)
The Never Say Never Guy (2017)
Mr Love (2018)
Healing Process (EP, 2020)
Sweet Distractions (2022)
Awards and Achievements
Winner of the Zain Tru Search Music Competition (2008)
Multiple nominations at The Headies Awards
Recognition as one of Nigeria’s most consistent Afropop hitmakers
Style and Influence
Skales’ music is a blend of Afropop, hip-hop, dancehall, and R&B, making him one of the most versatile Nigerian artists. Known for his catchy hooks and dance-ready beats, he has collaborated with top stars including Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, and Sarkodie.
His artistry is influenced by global hip-hop culture as well as indigenous Nigerian rhythms, giving his music both international appeal and local authenticity.
Personal Life
Skales is private about his personal life but has often credited his mother as his biggest inspiration. Beyond music, he has been involved in humanitarian projects, especially campaigns advocating for better opportunities for young people in Nigeria.
Legacy and Impact
With a career spanning over a decade, Skales has proven his staying power in the Afrobeats industry. From his early days as a rapper to becoming a hitmaking Afropop star, he continues to evolve and remain relevant in Nigeria’s fast-changing music scene.
.jpg=w437-h437-p-k-no-nu)
0 Comments