Naira Marley Biography

Basic Info

Full Name: Azeez Adeshina Fashola

Stage Name: Naira Marley

Country: Nigeria

Birth Date

Date of Birth: May 10, 1991

Biography, Career, and more

Azeez Adeshina Fashola, professionally known as Naira Marley, was born on 10 May 1991. He originally hailed from Lagos, Nigeria, before moving to Peckham, South London at the age of 11. He graduated with distinction in Business from Peckham Academy in 2010 and later studied Business Law at Crossways College (now Christ the King Sixth Form College). While growing up, Naira Marley nurtured dreams of becoming an MC and voice-over artist. His passion for music blossomed in 2013, inspired and encouraged by close friends in the Queens Road area of Peckham. That same year, he released the Max Twigz-assisted track “Marry Juana” and followed it up with his debut EP Gotta Dance in 2014, marking the true beginning of his rise.

Career

Naira Marley gained widespread attention in 2017 with “Issa Goal,” featuring Olamide and Lil Kesh. The song became a nationwide anthem and the official theme track for the Super Eagles during the 2018 FIFA World Cup. A star-studded remix — featuring Falz, Simi, and Slimcase — further cemented his growing influence.

Known for his hybrid sound that blends Afrobeats, Street Pop, and hip-hop, Naira Marley sings in English, Pidgin, and Yoruba. His stage name pays homage to reggae icon Bob Marley, whose legacy also inspired his signature dreadlocks. In 2019, he released the Zlatan-assisted hit “Am I A Yahoo Boy,” which went viral shortly before his arrest by the EFCC. Upon regaining freedom, he dropped “Soapy,” a controversial yet chart-dominating single that earned him Viewers’ Choice at the 2020 Soundcity MVP Awards. In December 2019, he followed up with his second EP Lord of Lamba, featuring acts like CBlvck, Mayorkun, and Young John, with production from Rexxie, Killertunes, and Studio Magic. On 30 December 2019, during the Marlian Fest in Lagos, Naira Marley launched his own record label, Marlian Records, signing talents such as CBlvck, Zinoleesky, and Fabian Blu. Over time, the label also became home to artists like Mohbad, Vusic, and Emo Grae.

Achievements

Naira Marley’s impact on Nigeria’s street music culture is profound. His single “Soapy” earned the 2020 Soundcity MVP Viewers’ Choice Award, further validating his dominance. His label, Marlian Records, has produced some of the most streamed and culturally influential artists of the new generation, contributing significantly to the evolution of modern Street Pop. The term “Marlians,” used to describe his loyal fanbase, has grown into one of the most powerful youth-driven movements in Afrobeats culture.

Controversies

Naira Marley has faced several public controversies, including his 2019 arrest by the EFCC shortly after the release of “Am I A Yahoo Boy.” The incident sparked nationwide debates about cybercrime, morality, and artistic expression in Nigeria. His provocative lyrics, rebellious persona, and outspoken social commentary have also stirred multiple conversations online, creating both critics and devoted supporters. Additionally, legal disputes and internal issues within Marlian Records — especially involving former signee Mohbad — have attracted substantial media attention.

Personal Life

Naira Marley has dual Nigerian-British identity and maintains strong ties to both cultures. Although he keeps most of his family life out of the spotlight, he is known to be a father and often expresses pride in his children. Deeply connected to street culture, he frequently uses his platform to speak on youth empowerment, real-life struggles, and societal issues affecting young Nigerians. His fanbase, the Marlians, reflects his core philosophy of freedom, individuality, and bold self-expression.

Net Worth

Estimated Net Worth: $9 million