Jada Pollock, talent manager and mother to two of Wizkid’s children, recently opened up about the frustrations of being stereotyped as merely a “baby mama.”
In an interview with BET UK, Jada candidly shared her struggles with the label and how it overshadows her professional accomplishments. Despite her pivotal role in shaping Wizkid’s career and the broader Afrobeat industry, Jada lamented how her contributions are often reduced to her personal relationship with the global music star. She expressed her determination to shift the narrative and be recognized for her achievements beyond motherhood.
Reflecting on a specific incident, Jada recounted the aftermath of Wizkid’s Grammy win, an event that marked a milestone for Afrobeat on the global stage. In the wake of the win, she penned a statement celebrating the genre’s remarkable growth.
However, rather than focusing on her insightful commentary, blogs and media outlets labeled her statement with the dismissive tag, “Wizkid’s baby mama.” For Jada, this reductive narrative undermined her identity as a skilled entrepreneur and manager. “The narrative does not recognize that you’re an entrepreneur and a hardworking businesswoman,” she stated. “I’m not only a mother but also a manager, and I’ve helped build a legacy.”
Jada’s partnership with Wizkid extends far beyond their personal relationship. The two began dating in 2014, and since then, Jada has played a significant role in managing and elevating Wizkid’s brand on the global stage.
Her efforts have been instrumental in fostering the international growth of Afrobeat, a genre that continues to break boundaries and garner widespread acclaim. Despite these professional achievements, the persistent label of “baby mama” frustrates her as it diminishes her role as a key player in the music industry.
The challenges Jada faces highlight the broader issue of how women in the entertainment industry are often defined by their relationships rather than their professional merits. Her story resonates with countless women who strive to be seen for their talents and hard work rather than being boxed into societal stereotypes.
By speaking out, Jada not only advocates for herself but also for other women facing similar situations, pushing for a more inclusive and respectful narrative around women in business.
Jada and Wizkid share two children, Zion, born in 2017, and AJ, born in 2022. While she treasures her role as a mother, she remains equally committed to her career and the legacy she continues to build. Her determination to challenge societal norms and redefine how women in the public eye are perceived serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing women’s multifaceted identities.
