top of page

How I Named Wizkid – Banky W Shares Story in New Video (Watch)

profile photo.webp

Drew Mcgee

Nov 8, 2024

Banky W Reveals the Origins of Wizkid’s Name and His Rise from Humble Studio Beginnings

Nigerian singer Banky W recently shared in a viral video how he came up with the name Wizkid for the Grammy Award-winning artist now known as BigWiz. Banky W, who initially signed Wizkid to his record label EME before Wizkid established his own StarBoy Entertainment, described Wizkid's early days in the music industry.


Banky referred to Wizkid as a "studio rat," explaining that, for a long period, Wizkid couldn't afford studio time. He recounted how Wizkid would spend entire days at any studio that would let him stay, hoping the producer might eventually give him 15 to 30 minutes to record since he couldn’t pay for his own sessions.


Banky further explained that the name "WIZ" came from Wizkid’s ability to quickly create music. He noted that Wizkid could simply listen to a beat, and almost instantly, the song would be ready. "He doesn’t need to write it, he’s a genius," Banky said.


WATCH VIDEO


In Banky's words: “Wizkid for a long time in his life was not fortunate enough to afford or pay for studio time... he was a studio rat as he will go to any studio where they will let him hang out... he would hang out all day... just wait, hope and pray for the end of the day for the engineers and producers to just take pity on him... He did not have time to think about what to write at the moment, so that became his process."


Banky praised Wizkid's remarkable songwriting speed, describing how Wizkid could listen to music, start freestyling a melody, and quickly create a song that the world would love. This spontaneous, genius-level creativity was what inspired the name "Wiz."

Sauti Sol performing live at the "Sol Fest Kigali Pre Party," thrilling fans with their signature hits at Kigali Universe, November 30, 2024.

Sauti Sol Ignites Kigali: A Night of Unforgettable Performances

Rwanda

| African Music

Davido reveals he has direct access to 14 presidents, showcasing his global influence and cultural impact.

How Davido’s Music Earned Him Access to 14 Presidents

Nigeria

Afrobeat Celebrities

Davis D and South African rapper Nasty C together at Shineboy Fest, celebrating Davis D's 10-year milestone in music.

Davis D's 10-Year Music Journey: A Night of Surprises at Shineboy Fest

Rwanda

| African Music

Tems, celebrated artist, confirms her Kigali concert for 2025 while on a global tour promoting her album Born in the Wild Tems. Credit:gettyimages

Tems Confirms Kigali Concert in 2025 – Details Coming Soon!

Rwanda

| African Music

bottom of page