Oniyide Azeez (born November 21, 1995) is a fast-rising Nigerian young artist, known professionally as Zinoleesky, a talented singer and songwriter who garnered widespread recognition through his online freestyles.
He gained prominence in the Nigerian entertainment space after he was unveiled as the newest signee in the Marlians Records.
Early Life
Zinoleesky, the young talented artist, had the privilege of growing up alongside his parents in Agege, a lively neighborhood in Lagos State. He was born into a Muslim family and had a strong foundation in his Islamic studies, diligently learning and completing his primary and secondary education.
From a young age, Zinoleesky displayed a deep passion for music. Immersed in a musical environment, he surrounded himself with inspiring melodies and found influence in the works of renowned artists such as Wizkid, Olamide, Davido, and Kizz Daniel. His musical taste expanded as he listened to various genres like Afrobeats, Highlife, Pop, Juju, and Fuji.
With growing desires to create music, Zinoleesky began experimenting with rapping, initially mumbling verses that gradually transformed into confident and skillful deliveries. During his teenage years, he used his music to express his personal experiences, particularly highlighting his challenges growing up.
He received his primary education at “Lively Kiddies Nur&Pry School,” where he obtained his first School Leaving Certificate. Continuing his education, he enrolled at a government-owned institution called State High School Agege, where he completed his secondary education and obtained his Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSCE).
Career
Zinoleesky’s musical journey took root during his early teenage years while attending high school. Starting as a freestyle artist, he regularly shared his freestyles on social media platforms, captivating his classmates and earning popularity within his school and neighborhood.
During his high school years, Zinoleesky formed close friendships with two like-minded individuals named Lil Frosh and Ibradosky. Sharing a passion for music, Lil Frosh and Ibradosky were talented rappers who formed a clique. The trio collaborated, and their name quickly gained recognition, not only in Agege but also beyond. They released freestyles and covers of popular hit songs, showcasing their skills and attracting a growing fan base.
Zinoleesky’s talent caught the attention of top Nigerian artist Kizz Daniel when he created a cover of Kizz Daniel’s hit song “Fvck You.” After being reposted by Kizz Daniel, the cover garnered massive recognition, opening doors for Zinoleesky and leading to various record deal offers. Notably, Zinoleesky declined an offer from Davido, one of Nigeria’s biggest celebrities and artists, for reasons known best to him.
In December 2019, Zinoleesky signed a record deal with Marlians Records, owned by Naira Marley, a prominent Nigerian rapper. He was officially unveiled as a signee of the Marlians family during the Marlians fest, alongside other artists such as Mohbad, C Blvck, and Fabian Blu.
Zinoleesky’s career took off with the release of his debut EP, titled “Chrome,” featuring six tracks. The EP included popular songs like “Kilofeshe,” “Angeli,” “Wo Wa Mi,” “Ma Pariwo,” “Ni Tori E,” and “Bullet.”
Following his EP’s success, Zinoleesky continued to make waves in the industry. In December 2021, he was featured in Lil Kesh’s song “Don’t Call Me.” In 2022, Zinoleesky released hit singles like “Gone Far” and “Rocking,” with the music video for “Rocking” being directed by Ahmad Mosh and released on February 18.
Zinoleesky has collaborated with several prominent Nigerian celebrities, including BNXN (formerly Buju), on the song “Kilometer,” released in April 2022. In August 2022, he teamed up with Tiwa Savage for the song “Jaiye Foreign.” Additionally, Zinoleesky dropped another hit single, “Call of Duty,” in August 2022, further solidifying his presence in the industry.
He has further released several chart-topping songs afterward and featured with several other Nigerian stars, including Victony, Adekunle Gold, and others.
After maintaining a low profile following the tragic loss of his friend and colleague, Zino has emerged from the shadows with a powerful comeback. On December 14, 2023, he dropped a hot new single titled “Sakara,” marking his return to the music scene. This latest track comes under the banner of his record label, Marlian Record, and promises to be a compelling addition to his musical repertoire.
Discography
- Gone Far
- A1
- Partty No Dey Stop
- Many Things
- Gbona
- Hypnotize
- Kilofeshe
- Jaiye Foreign
- Call of Duty
- Kilometer
- Popo
- Money
- Vanessa
- Who knows
- Fame
- Ole
- Apple
- Yolo
- Firi yoyo
- Hiromi
- Stay
Personal Life
Zinoleesky, born on November 21, 1999, is a native of Agege, where he spent his childhood and formative years. As a young and accomplished artist, he serves as an inspiration to other aspiring musicians within the Agege community.
Regarding personal relationships, Zinoleesky is currently involved in a romantic relationship with Shubomi Fashola, who happens to be the sister of Naira Marley. Their affectionate moment, captured in a video where they were seen kissing, garnered significant attention and circulated widely online.
Zinoleesky’s close friends and music collaborators from his childhood days are Lil Frosh and Ibradosky. They grew up together, sharing a passion for music and creating melodies as a group. The trio’s musical journey led them to gain popularity and recognition within Agege and beyond.
During their early days in the music industry, Zinoleesky and Lil Frosh were managed by Spiritual Beatz, a well-known producer, rapper, singer, and songwriter, also known as Frank Ley. Spiritual Beatz played a crucial role in recording, promoting, and pushing their songs, contributing to their rise as popular acts within the Agege community.
In February 2022, Zinoleesky faced legal trouble and was reportedly arrested alongside Mohbad for allegedly possessing illegal substances. After a brief period of detention, he was released.
Currently, Zinoleesky resides in his own house and enjoys the luxury of owning expensive cars, reflecting his success in the music industry.
Social Media
- Instagram @zinoleesky
- Twitter @zinoleesky01
Net Worth
Zinoleesky has an estimated net worth of approximately US$500,000 – US$1 million.