Akinmayokun Awodumila, professionally known as May D, a prominent figure in the Nigerian music scene, has publicly expressed his aversion to comparisons with other artists, particularly Wizkid, a globally recognized Afrobeats superstar. This declaration underscores May D’s assertion of his unique artistic identity and his refusal to be placed in the same category as any other artist, regardless of their stature or achievements. While acknowledging Wizkid’s immense success and global recognition, May D emphasizes his distinct musical style and artistic trajectory, positioning himself as a “different breed” and “God’s baby.”
May D’s musical journey began in the early 2010s, marked by his smooth vocals, Afrobeat-influenced sound, and captivating hooks. His initial breakthrough came with his signing to Square Records, the music label owned by the iconic duo P-Square. This period saw him contribute to several hit songs, including the internationally acclaimed “Chop My Money (Remix)” featuring Akon and P-Square. His unique blend of Afropop and R&B quickly resonated with audiences, establishing him as a fan favorite. This collaboration with internationally acclaimed artists further solidified his presence in the music industry and broadened his reach.
However, May D’s association with Square Records ended in 2012, prompting him to establish his own label, Confam Entertainment. This move reflects his entrepreneurial spirit and his desire for greater creative control over his music and career. The establishment of Confam Entertainment allowed May D to pursue his artistic vision independently and further define his unique musical identity. This decision marked a significant turning point in his career, allowing him to explore different sounds and collaborate with a diverse range of artists.
The comparison between May D and Wizkid arises from their shared presence in the Nigerian music scene and their contributions to the Afrobeats genre. However, May D’s recent statement seeks to dispel any notion of artistic similarity, highlighting his distinct musical style and creative approach. While Wizkid’s global dominance is undeniable, May D’s assertion of his unique identity underscores the diversity within the Afrobeats genre and the individual journeys of artists within it.
May D’s declaration of his distinct artistic identity reflects a broader trend among artists to define themselves beyond comparisons and establish their unique contributions to the music industry. In a constantly evolving musical landscape, artists strive to differentiate themselves and carve their own niche. May D’s statement serves as a reminder that artistic expression is multifaceted and that comparisons, while sometimes tempting, often fail to capture the nuances of individual artistry.
This incident also highlights the importance of recognizing and celebrating the diverse talents within the music industry. While comparisons can provide context, they can also limit the appreciation of individual artists’ unique contributions. May D’s bold statement encourages a deeper appreciation of the diverse artistic landscape and emphasizes the value of recognizing each artist’s individual journey and creative expression. By declaring himself a “different breed,” May D invites listeners and critics to appreciate his music on its own merits, independent of any comparisons to other artists.
