Olamilekan Massoud Al-Khalifah Agbeleshebioba, professionally known as Laycon, was born on November 8, 1993, in Lagos, Nigeria. He hails from Odeda, Ogun State. Laycon attended Lagos State Model College Merian for his secondary education.
Education
In 2012, Laycon enrolled at the University of Lagos, where he pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy, graduating in 2016 with a Second Class Upper Division. Demonstrating a commitment to further education, he obtained a Master of Arts in International Relations from the University of Portsmouth, England, in April 2023.
Music Career Trajectory
Early Beginnings
Laycon’s passion for music emerged early in his life. By 2012, he began his musical journey, balancing it alongside his academic pursuits. His dedication led him to become a top ten finalist in the 2017 MTV Base LSB Challenge, marking his initial recognition in the Nigerian music scene.
Breakthrough and Recognition
In 2019, Laycon released the single “Fierce,” featuring collaborations with Chinko Ekun and Reminisce. This track garnered significant attention, showcasing his lyrical prowess and unique style. His participation in the fifth season of Big Brother Naija in 2020 elevated his profile, culminating in him winning the competition.
Subsequent Releases and Achievements
Following his Big Brother Naija victory, Laycon released the single “Wagwan” in 2021, which debuted at number five on Billboard’s Top Ten Triller Global Chart. He continued to build his discography with albums like “Shall We Begin” (2021) and “Bioba” (2023), further solidifying his position in the music industry.
Major Influences
Laycon’s music is characterized by a blend of Afrobeat and rap, drawing inspiration from various genres and artists. His collaborations with musicians like Chinko Ekun and Reminisce reflect his adaptability and commitment to evolving his sound.
Significant Contributions to the Entertainment Industry
Beyond his musical endeavors, Laycon has made notable contributions to the entertainment sector. In October 2022, he became a member of the Grammy Recording Academy’s voting committee, highlighting his influence and recognition in the global music community.
Challenges and Controversies
Throughout his career, Laycon has maintained a relatively controversy-free profile, focusing on his music and personal development. His journey reflects resilience and dedication, overcoming the typical challenges faced by emerging artists in a competitive industry.
Personal Life
Laycon tends to keep his personal life private. However, his commitment to education and philanthropy is evident. In June 2021, he was appointed as the global advocate and ambassador for the Sickle Cell Foundation of Nigeria. Additionally, he founded the “Laycon Cares Foundation,” focusing on education, governance, and climate action.
Discography
Mixtapes
- Any Given Monday (The Playlist) (2019)
- Any Given Monday II (2019)
EPs
- Young Black and Gifted (2016)
- Who is Laycon? (2020)
Albums
- Shall We Begin (2021)
- I Am Laycon (The Original Soundtrack) (2021)
- Bioba (2023)
Notable Singles
- “Fierce” (2019)
- “Senseless” (2020)
- “HipHop” (2020)
- “Fall for Me” ft. YKB (2021)
- “Wagwan” (2021)
Awards and Recognitions
- Winner, Big Brother Naija Season 5 (2020)
- Special Recognition Award, City People Music Awards (2020)
- Best New Artist, African Entertainment Awards USA (2020)
- Artist of the Year, Naijatraffic Awards (2020)
Conclusion
Laycon’s journey from a passionate young artist in Lagos to a recognized figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry exemplifies dedication and versatility. His contributions to music, reality television, and philanthropy have left an indelible mark, positioning him as an influential figure for aspiring artists and fans alike.
