Popular Nigerian singer Ahmed Ololade, professionally known as Asake, recently shed light on the intriguing origin of his stage name. In a candid interview featured in Pause Magazine’s Autium 2023 edition, the artist delved into the unique story behind his moniker, revealing a deep connection to his cultural roots.
Asake’s journey to adopting his stage name began during his time in a cultural group, where fellow members affectionately referred to him as “Omo Asake.” This term, derived from the Yoruba language, translates to “child of Asake.” The significance lies in the fact that Asake is his mother’s name, and it was this familial link that initially sparked the association.
Over time, the prefix “Omo” was gradually dropped, and Asake found himself being addressed solely as “Asake.” The transition was not a calculated move but a natural evolution driven by those around him. In Asake’s own words, “My stage name is actually my mother’s. While I was in the cultural group, people used to call me ‘omo Asake,’ which means child of Asake in Yoruba. And after a while, it just stuck. People stopped adding the ‘omo’ and left ‘Asake.’ I thought it was cool and decided to go by it.”
This revelation provides a touching glimpse into Asake’s deep-seated connection to his heritage and family, as he proudly carries his mother’s name forward in his artistic career. The singer’s decision to maintain the name reflects his commitment to preserving his Yoruba identity and the cultural essence that has played a significant role in shaping his musical journey.
Furthermore, Asake emphasized his dedication to singing in Yoruba, highlighting the importance of this language to him. He expressed, “It is very important to me, and I am not going to lose it. It is what has brought me this far, and I continue to keep it that way.” This commitment underscores his determination to stay true to his roots and the cultural richness that defines his music.
