Saheed Osupa: Life story, music, rise to fame of a fuji icon

Saheed Osupa, born Akorede Babatunde Okunola is one of the most influential Fuji musicians of his generation.

Although born in Lagos, he grew up in Ibadan, Oyo State, where his musical identity developed strongly.

Profile summary

Name: Akorede Babatunde Okunola

Stage name: Saheed Osupa

Born: August 7, 1969

Place of birth: Lagos

Tribe: Yoruba

Education: Ibadan Polytechnic

Marital status: Married

Career: Musician

Background

Born on 7th August, 1969 in Ajegunle, Lagos State, Saheed Osupa hails  from a musical family background.

His father, Moshood Ajiwere Layeye, was a Wéré music performer and a relative of Fuji pioneer Ayinde Barrister. This early exposure to traditional Yoruba music greatly influenced his career path.

Education

Osupa attended Amuwo Odofin High School in Lagos and completed his secondary education in 1987.

He later earned a National Diploma in Business Administration from The Polytechnic, Ibadan in 1992.

He also studied Networking Operations at the American International College in the United States, combining education with his growing music career.

Music career and rise to fame

Osupa began his professional music journey in 1983 as a teenager. His first album, Fuji Fa Disco, introduced him to the public, followed by Fuji Blues.

Over time, he released more than 40 studio albums and built a strong reputation in the Fuji music industry.

His style blends traditional Fuji with modern influences, helping to create and popularise “hip Fuji,” a fusion of Fuji and contemporary sounds. His consistency, lyrical depth, and stage presence earned him wide recognition across Nigeria.

In 2008, he was officially honoured with the title “King of Fuji Music,” reflecting his influence and dominance in the genre.

Hip hop and modern music influence

Beyond Fuji, Osupa also explored hip hop and fusion music. Between 2014 and 2015, he released songs such as “Vanakula,” “African Beauty,” and “Womi,” working with producers like K-Solo and collaborating with artistes like Seriki.

These projects helped him connect with younger audiences and remain relevant in a changing music industry.

Acting career

Osupa is also a Yoruba film actor with appearances in over 30 movies. His acting roles further expanded his influence in the Nigerian entertainment industry, especially within Yoruba-language cinema.

Rivalry in Fuji music

His career has also been shaped by a well-known rivalry with Wasiu Alabi Pasuma.

The rivalry produced several diss tracks and public disagreements over the years, although there were reported attempts at reconciliation in the early 2010s.

Achievements

Osupa has one of the most extensive catalogues in Fuji music. Some of his notable albums include Fuji Demonstration, Stainless Fuji, Fuji Icon,  Mr. Music, Non-Stop, Integrity, Permutation, Direction, Power of Music, and Phenomenon.

His steady output has kept him relevant for decades.

He has also received several awards, including Best Fuji Musician at the City People Entertainment Awards in 2015, recognition at the Yoruba Academy Awards in 2013, and Best Fuji Musician of the Year at the Yoruba Image International Awards in 2019.

Net worth

Saheed Osupa is considered one of the wealthiest Fuji musicians in Nigeria.

His income comes from music sales, live concerts, acting, endorsements, and streaming revenue.

His estimated net worth is between $1 million and $5 million, although exact figures are not officially confirmed.