Early Life

Oluwaseyi Akerele, widely known as Shizzi, is a Nigerian platinum-selling record producer, songwriter, and DJ. He began his musical journey as a church drummer and quickly rose to prominence for producing Davido’s hit single Dami Duro in 2011. His work on Davido’s debut album Omo Baba Olowo included six tracks, solidifying his role in shaping the artist’s sound. He also produced Love My Baby on Wizkid’s debut album Superstar and created major hits like Skelewu and Gobe.

Shizzi’s versatility extends across genres, having produced Wande Coal’s controversial tracks Baby Face and Go Low. Over the years, he has collaborated with a wide range of artists including Sasha, Sauce Kid, Harrysong, Naeto C, Wizkid, D’Prince, Fireboy DML, Skuki, Emmy Gee, Chris Brown, and DaBaby.

Career

Shizzi expanded his influence in 2013 when he co-produced Tchelete for Davido, alongside Uhuru and DJ Maphorisa, featuring Mafikizolo. In 2014, he joined forces with African stars like Tiwa Savage, Sarkodie, Lola Rae, and Diamond Platnumz to create the Africa Rising campaign song for MultiChoice.

In 2015, he led a masterclass at NEC Live with Davido, demonstrating how to craft a hit song. The following year, he signed a publishing deal with Sony/ATV Music Publishing. In late 2016, he launched his label and management company, Magic Fingers, and signed Teni, who gained attention after releasing her debut single Amen under the label.

In 2019, he featured in Beyoncé’s The Lion King: The Gift documentary, sharing insights about the album’s creative process. By 2020, he partnered with fellow producer Sarz for The Battle of Hits, a live Instagram event showcasing their hit tracks. The session attracted massive viewership from stars like Timbaland, Don Jazzy, and Wizkid.

In 2021, Shizzi publicly addressed his fallout with Teni, expressing disappointment over her departure from his label without acknowledging his role in her rise.

On April 27, 2022, he officially ended his publishing deal with Sony/ATV Music Publishing. He explained that the original deal lacked fairness and transparency, particularly due to the influence of his former manager. Shizzi has since signed a new publishing agreement with Concord Music Publishing, marking a fresh chapter in his career.

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