Nigerian artist Skales may seem as though he has had a relatively quick rise to stardom.
His career may seem to have blown up overnight, however his story could not be any further than it seems. Raoul John Njeng-Njeng aka Skales has headlined various concerts across the continent and is set to headline at the 24th edition of the Koroga Festival.
The youngin’ from Kudana State, Nigeria began his career in 2000 and only had mega success in 2008. Ten years on, Skales is making it big not only on the African content but abroad, rising quickly through the ranks of afrobeat international artists.
Here are 7 things you did not know about Skales.
1. His name Skales is an acronym.
The name Skales is an acronym for “Seek Knowledge Acquire Large Entrepreneurial Skills.”
2. Skales waited almost 10 years for his major break.
Skales entered a Zain Tru Search Competition which lead to his track “Must Shine” to garner great listenership through its heavy rotation in the local music stations. The Lead City University graduate then signed to Banky W’s label Empire Mates Entertainment in 2009.
3. Banky W’s support helped elevate Skales’ music career.
Skales signed to Banky’s Empire Mates Entertainment and was featured in the record label’s album Empires State of Mind in 2012. He worked with WizKid, Shaydee, Niola among many other artists.
4. Skales is a business-minded artist
As part of the huge money-making Afrobeats industry, Skales established his own record label in Lagos Nigeria. The young artist invested in creating what he calls OHK Music.
3. Skales may be the artist with the most Davido collaborations.
Skales has worked with many African artists, however, it seems that he always goes back to collaborating with Davido for a banger. The duo has worked together on several occasions, producing magic in studio that results in chart-topping hits. Among the many tracks, they have together is their most recent collab dubbed “Currency” which was released in November 2018.
2. Skales was raised in a single-parent home.
Skales was brought up by his mother and is an only child. His mother sold cassettes; where Skales’ interest in music grew.
1. “Shake Body” catapulted his career.
Skales’ 2014 release Shake Body established his career and proved his star power. Supported by a Shake Body competition, the track instituted Skales as a continental afrobeats heavyweight. Since then, he has worked with various artists including Nicki Minaj and Major Lazer.
