Sony Music Publishing West Africa has signed Nigerian singer, songwriter and rapper Zinoleesky, the publisher announced on Friday.
The company unveiled the deal in a social media post.
“With a distinctive sound and a string of hit records, Zinoleesky has established himself as one of the standout voices in contemporary Afrobeats,” SMP said. “We’re excited to welcome the Nigerian singer and songwriter to the SMP family.”
The announcement listed “Ma Pariwo,” “Kilofeshe,” “Personal” and “Gone Far” among the records that shaped his catalogue.
“We look forward to supporting his artistry and being part of what’s ahead. Welcome to SMP, Zinoleesky,” the company added.
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Born Oniyide Adigun Azeez, Zinoleesky emerged from Agege, Lagos, building a reputation for fusing electronic Amapiano elements with traditional Nigerian street sounds.
He broke into the industry independently alongside childhood friends, including Lil Frosh, and drew attention with raw street freestyles on social media.
His first breakthrough came with “Popo” in 2019, a record that highlighted social inequity and showcased his soulful vocal delivery.
He subsequently signed with Naira Marley’s Marlian Music, releasing anthems including “Ma Pariwo,” “Kilofeshe” and “Loving You.”
His projects include the Chrome Eccentric EP in 2020, the Grit & Lust EP in 2022 and his debut studio album Gen Z in 2025.
Gen Z debuted at number nine on the Billboard World Albums chart and topped the Official Nigerian Top 100.
After a seven-year stint with Marlian Music, Zinoleesky parted ways with the label in April 2026 to launch his own imprint, Zinodict Music.
He has accumulated over 666 million total streams on Spotify and has joined the list of African artists surpassing 1 billion streams on Audiomack.
Gen Z alone has generated more than 107 million Spotify streams and over 208 million cumulative streams across five major digital platforms. Grit & Lust sits at over 95 million Spotify streams, with Chrome Eccentric at more than 45 million.
His highest-streaming appearance remains the collaborative track “Party No Dey Stop” with Adekunle Gold, which has passed 124 million streams.
Zinoleesky and British-Nigerian rapper Ms Banks have worked together twice.
Niphkeys produced “Ayamase,” which appeared on Gen Z in 2025. Ms Banks returned the collaboration on “IDK,” produced by Puffybeatz, for her March 2026 album SOUTH LDN LOVER GIRL.
SMP did not disclose the terms of the agreement, its duration or which catalogue rights are covered.
It is unclear whether the deal covers future compositions only or includes elements of his existing catalogue.
