Zinoleesky: “I Ran Away From Home For Music”

Afrobeats star Zinoleesky opens up about defying his parents and running away from home to follow his music dream, switching from rap to Afropop fame

Afrobeats sensation Zinoleesky has opened up about the bold and unconventional steps he took to kickstart his music career, including running away from home as a teenager.

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In a candid interview with SB Live, the “Kilofeshe” hitmaker revealed the extent of his determination to succeed in music, despite facing resistance from his family.

Nigerian parents are always in denial whenever you want to do stuffs like music. They want you to do a professional course or learn a trade. So, you just have to find a way. Me, I did some crazy stuffs. I ran away from home to do music,” Zinoleesky confessed.

Born and raised in Lagos, Zinoleesky began his musical journey as a rapper, before eventually transitioning into singing—a move that would define his place in the Afropop scene.

His passion for music started young, but like many Nigerian artists, he encountered parental opposition rooted in a culture that traditionally favors professional careers over artistic ones.

At some point, I knew I had to do it for myself,” he added.

Zinoleesky first caught public attention in 2017, after his freestyle videos began making the rounds on social media, quickly turning him into an internet sensation. His raw talent and street-smart lyrics resonated with Nigeria’s youth, earning him a loyal fanbase.

Amid growing buzz around his name, rumors surfaced that he turned down a record deal from Davido’s DMW a move that shocked fans and industry observers.

However, by December 2019, Zinoleesky made headlines again when he officially signed to Marlian Music, the record label led by controversial street-pop star Naira Marley.

Under Marlian Music, Zinoleesky released his debut EP, Chrome Eccentric, which featured several smash hits including ‘Ma Pariwo’ and the chart-topping ‘Kilofeshe’.

His sound—an infectious blend of street-pop, melodic Afrobeats, and emotional vulnerability quickly distinguished him from his peers.

Zinoleesky’s journey, from teenage runaway to rising star, is one of risk, resilience, and relentless passion. His story underscores the tension many young Nigerian creatives face when choosing between family expectations and their dreams.

Now a household name, Zinoleesky continues to build a career that reflects both his humble beginnings and bold decisions.His transparency about the sacrifices he made adds another layer to the music that fans already find relatable and heartfelt.

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As he continues to evolve artistically, Zinoleesky’s success serves as a powerful reminder that sometimes, chasing your dream means stepping into the unknown—no matter the cost.