Afrobeats sensation Adedamola Adefolahan, better known as Fireboy DML, recently shared a surprising glimpse into his life before achieving fame, revealing that he was on the brink of becoming a petty trader despite holding a bachelor’s degree.
In an appearance on the 90s Baby Show in London, Fireboy opened up about the time before his career took off, when he was preparing to take a different path entirely.
He admitted that, just before being signed by music mogul Olamide to YBNL Nation in 2018, he was considering selling rechargeable lamps under Ajah Bridge in Lagos.
This admission paints a picture of a young man determined to make a living, even if it meant stepping into a business far removed from his musical dreams.
Before considering the lamp-selling venture, Fireboy had been dabbling in the food business, selling pepper soup at a local joint.
However, he felt that this business wasn’t the right fit for him, and he was actively searching for a change. “Thank God for that [Olamide signing me],” he said, reflecting on the moment that changed his life.
“I was considering selling rechargeable lamps. I met one guy under Ajah Bridge, he was telling me about the business and I told him I was interested.”
Despite the humble nature of the job, Fireboy found a certain dignity in the prospect of selling lamps, which he believed was a more respectable endeavor than the pepper soup business he had been involved in.
Fireboy’s reasoning behind this decision sheds light on the pressure he felt at the time. “To me, at the time, it was more dignified. At least, people will sell you a lamp seller but selling pepper soup is crazy, bro,” he confessed.
He also shared how his parents remained unaware of the menial jobs he was doing to get by. “My parents didn’t know I was doing menial jobs. It was crazy but now, we thank God,” he added, emphasizing the challenges he faced while trying to find a stable career path.
His story resonates with many young people who struggle to find their footing and sometimes resort to humble work before their dreams become a reality.
The turning point in Fireboy’s journey came when Olamide, the ace rapper and music executive behind YBNL Nation, signed him to the label.
What’s even more remarkable is that Fireboy revealed he was signed via WhatsApp, a sign of the modern digital world where deals can be made in an instant.
This was a defining moment that shifted the trajectory of Fireboy’s life and career. With Olamide’s backing, Fireboy’s music found its way to a broader audience, and his career was launched into the spotlight.
His breakout single “Jealous” was featured on YBNL Nation’s collaborative album YBNL Mafia Family in 2018, marking the beginning of his rise to stardom.
By 2019, Fireboy DML had solidified his place in the Afrobeats scene with the release of his debut studio album, Laughter, Tears and Goosebumps.
This album, which showcased his unique blend of soulful lyrics and vibrant Afrobeats rhythms, propelled him to even greater heights.
Reflecting on his journey from almost becoming a petty trader to a household name in the music industry, Fireboy’s story is one of perseverance, fate, and the right opportunities coming at the right time.
Today, the “Peru” hitmaker is not just a rising star but a global phenomenon, showing that sometimes the road to success is unpredictable, but with determination and the right support, dreams can come true.
