Summary: YBNL star Asake reveals how his father opposed his music dreams, leading to a strained relationship. The ‘Sungba’ crooner shares his journey of choosing passion over parental approval.
Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has opened up about the difficult choice he had to make between his music dreams and his father’s approval—a struggle many young Nigerians pursuing creative careers can relate to.
In a heartfelt interview with popular YouTuber Korty EO, the YBNL sensation shared intimate details about how his relationship with his father became strained when he decided to chase his music career against paternal wishes.
The Breaking Point
“My dad and I were so close when I was younger,” Asake revealed during the sit-down. “But it got to a time when I wanted to leave home to do what I’m doing now but my father said ‘No.’ I left regardless.”
This confession touches on a familiar Nigerian narrative—the tension between traditional expectations and modern career aspirations. For many young Nigerians, especially those drawn to the entertainment industry, parental support can be hard to come by. Parents often prefer “stable” professions like medicine, engineering, or law over what they perceive as the uncertainty of music and entertainment.
The Price of Following Your Dreams
The ‘Sungba’ hitmaker’s decision to disobey his father and pursue music anyway came at a cost—a strained father-son relationship that once was very close. It’s a sacrifice many Nigerian creatives understand all too well: choosing between familial peace and personal passion.
Asake’s story is particularly poignant given how successful he has become. From his breakout hit ‘Omo Ope’ to chart-toppers like ‘Sungba’, ‘Terminator’, and ‘Organise’, the Afrobeats star has proven that his risky decision paid off professionally.
Reconciliation and Healing
However, the journey hasn’t been without public drama. In March 2025, Asake’s father, Fatai Odunsi, made headlines when he accused the singer of neglect and abandonment—a claim that sparked widespread debate on social media and drew criticism toward the artist.
The public nature of the family dispute put pressure on both father and son, eventually leading to reconciliation. While details of their reunion remain private, the fact that they’ve mended fences shows growth and maturity on both sides.
A Lesson for Nigerian Families
Asake’s story highlights the evolving conversation around career choices in Nigerian families. As the creative industry continues to produce millionaires and global ambassadors, more parents are reconsidering their stance on “unconventional” careers.
Yet, the emotional toll of family disapproval remains real for many young Nigerians still fighting for their parents’ blessing to pursue their passions.
Today, with multiple awards, sold-out shows, and international recognition, Asake stands as proof that sometimes, the path less approved by family can still lead to extraordinary success—though ideally, with reconciliation and understanding along the way.
What do you think? Should parents support their children’s creative ambitions, or is caution justified? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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