Nigerian superstar 1da Banton (real name Godson Epelle) has had quite a year. The Port Harcourt-bred singer-songwriter and producer started 2023 with his picturesque music video for ‘Call Jehova’, produced by Rugged, with over one million views.
The new song exhibits 1da Banton’s ability to put himself first by not neglecting his own needs while trying to impress “Onome”, just as he made visible through his lyrics: “Onome call Jehovah, if you get problem no dey call me, say make you call Jehovah.”
In March, 1da Banton celebrated his contribution to Davido’s highly-anticipated album ‘Timeless’ on ‘Na Money’ featuring Angélique Kidjo and The Cavemen and for ‘No Competition’. A couple of weeks ago, ‘No Wahala’ played during a restaurant scene in Apple Music’s ‘Ted Lasso’ comedy-drama series on Season 3—third episode 4-5-1. Music by his fellow Nigerians Wizkid (‘Essence’) and Tekno (‘Enjoy’) also played.
He also interviewed with the Recording Academy/GRAMMY.com revealing his secret ingredients to staying happy on tour. 1da Banton is on the road for The OVM Tour in Europe—set to perform in Italy, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. He recently Sweden, Switzerland, and Réunion Island.
Nigeria’s Soundcity Awards nominated him for its Digital Artist category award against Burna Boy, Wizkid, Davido, Rema, CKay, Tems, Omah Lay, Diamond Platnumz, and Zuchu. His song ‘No Wahala’ peaked at #23 on the Billboard US Afrobeats chart and #3 on the UK Afrobeats chart. With over 200 million streams across DSPs and over 66 million views on YouTube, his unique blend of Reggae, Dancehall, Afrobeats, and traditional sounds in Rivers State has travelled the globe and captivated his audience.
With the massive success he earned, he has collaborated with high-profile acts like Timaya, Tiwa Savage, Kizz Daniel, Stonebwoy, and Dancehall superstar, Kranium. The star’s growth in recent years has been astronomical, and he is poised to take his place among the greats of African Music.
Last year, 1da Banton released a harmonious number for the Summer titled, ‘Summer Love’. It currently has 5.5 million streams on Spotify. ‘No Wahala’ has charted in 26 countries on Apple Music’s Top 100 including France and Belgium.
The single had also soared to #2 on the Shazam Global Chart Worldwide, #3 on the Official UK Afrobeats Chart, and the Top 10 Songs in Nigeria. ‘Original VibeMachine’ was rated the #13 album in Nigeria for 2021.
