Mr Eazi turns down offers from Olamide’s YBNL and Jay-Z’s Roc Nation

Nigerian singer and entrepreneur Mr Eazi has opened up about turning down big record label opportunities early in his career, saying he preferred independence over signing with major names in the industry.

In a recent podcast interview, the “Skin Tight” hitmaker revealed that Olamide once tried to bring him into his record label, YBNL Nation, after they met at the “Ghana Meets Naija” event. However, Mr Eazi said he wasn’t ready to sign at the time.

“Olamide tried to sign me, but I rejected it because I wanted my freedom,” he explained, adding that his career was moving quickly and he didn’t fully understand the business side of  music yet.

He also shared another major moment in his journey, revealing that global label Roc Nation, founded by Jay-Z, showed interest in signing his breakout track “Skin Tight” while he was linked with Starboy Entertainment, led by Wizkid.

According to him, he even sought Wizkid’s advice before making a decision. Wizkid reportedly told him to consider the deal only if the money was “life-changing.”

“Roc Nation also tried to sign me while I was under Starboy Ent., and Wizkid told me to accept if it was life-changing money, but I refused,” Mr Eazi said.

The singer’s revelation has since stirred conversations online, with many fans debating whether he made the right call. While some feel he passed up major opportunities, others believe his choice helped him build a strong independent brand and global influence.

Over the years, Mr Eazi has continued to push his “indie-first” approach, focusing not just on music but also on business ventures and talent development across Africa’s music scene.