Nigerian street-pop sensation, Portable, has once again ignited conversations across social media with his recent comments on the claims that rapper Olamide made him famous.
In a bold statement, Portable stated, “I was already popular and trending before Olamide gave me a verse, and he hasn’t posted me since then.
Am I still living off Zazu?”
This comment has sparked debates among fans and industry insiders, many of whom question whether Portable’s rise to fame was solely due to his hard work and unique style or whether Olamide’s influence played a significant role.
Portable’s response reflects the pride he takes in his journey and his belief that his success is the result of his own efforts.
However, this incident also raises questions about the dynamics of mentorship, influence, and recognition in the Nigerian music industry.
Let’s explore Portable’s career, the impact of Olamide’s feature, and the larger conversation around support and independence in the world of entertainment.
Portable's Path to Popularity
Before the release of “Zazu Zeh,” Portable was already a notable figure within the streets of Lagos, known for his unique voice, energetic style, and relatable street anthems.
He worked tirelessly to carve out his niche in the street-pop scene, where he cultivated a local fan base that appreciated his raw talent and unapologetic personality.
Though he didn’t have mainstream recognition, Portable was gradually building a foundation for his career, and his music was gaining traction among young Nigerians.
Portable’s journey to fame mirrors the story of many street-pop artists who rise from grassroots popularity, capturing the attention of local communities before breaking into the mainstream.
He had been recording and promoting his songs independently, and he believed that with persistence, he would eventually find his breakthrough.
According to Portable, his popularity wasn’t solely the result of a single collaboration; it was the product of years of dedication and resilience.
The Impact of "Zazu Zeh" and Olamide's Influence
The release of "Zazu Zeh" in late 2021 marked a turning point in Portable’s career.
The song quickly became a street anthem, resonating with listeners across Nigeria and beyond.
The track’s catchy hook, combined with Portable’s high-energy delivery, captured the spirit of street culture, while its simple but infectious beat made it an instant favorite.
The involvement of Olamide, a well-respected figure in the Nigerian music industry, certainly added to the song’s appeal.
Olamide’s feature on “Zazu Zeh” brought attention to the song, giving Portable a platform to reach a wider audience.
Olamide’s reputation and his established fan base introduced Portable’s music to listeners who may not have discovered him otherwise.
In this sense, Olamide’s verse acted as a bridge, connecting Portable with a broader audience and amplifying his presence in the industry.
However, despite the exposure that came from the collaboration, Portable is adamant that Olamide’s involvement did not “make” him.
He argues that his rise was inevitable due to his pre-existing popularity and hard work.
Portable believes that his own talent and determination are what truly propelled him to fame, with Olamide’s feature serving as a catalyst rather than the sole factor behind his success.
Portable's Frustration with the Narrative
Portable’s frustration stems from the perception that he owes his entire career to Olamide.
He expressed that since the collaboration, Olamide has not promoted him or his music, yet people still credit his success solely to Olamide’s influence.
This narrative, Portable argues, undermines his own achievements and suggests that he would be nothing without that feature.
To Portable, this viewpoint disregards his journey and dismisses the hard work he put in long before “Zazu Zeh” was released.
This reaction speaks to a broader issue faced by artists who collaborate with bigger names.
The public often attributes their success to the more established artist, overlooking the work they put in before and after the collaboration.
Portable’s statement reflects his desire to be recognized as an independent artist who achieved success through his own efforts, rather than being viewed as an artist “made” by someone else.
The Dynamics of Mentorship and Independence in Nigerian Music
Portable’s experience highlights the delicate balance between mentorship and independence in the Nigerian music industry.
While collaborations with bigger artists can be beneficial, they often come with the assumption that the lesser-known artist owes their success entirely to the collaboration.
This narrative can overshadow the artist’s individual journey and achievements, making it difficult for them to establish their own identity.
In Portable’s case, his statement underscores the importance of self-worth and self-belief.
He wants fans and critics alike to understand that his journey was not defined by a single feature, but by years of hard work and a unique style that resonates with people.
Portable’s declaration is a reminder to the music industry and its audience that success often involves a combination of factors, including talent, perseverance, and sometimes, a little help from others.
Conclusion
Portable’s comments on Olamide’s influence have sparked an important conversation about recognition, mentorship, and independence in the music industry.
His statement, “I was already popular and trending before Olamide gave me a verse,” is a testament to his confidence and belief in his own abilities.
While it’s undeniable that the collaboration with Olamide helped elevate Portable’s career, it’s also clear that Portable views his success as the result of his own hard work and unique style.
As Portable continues to grow in his career, he is determined to establish himself as a distinct voice in Nigerian music, beyond any one feature or collaboration.
This bold stance not only challenges the traditional narratives of mentorship but also inspires other artists to take ownership of their journeys, recognizing that success can be both a personal achievement and a collective effort.
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