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Nigerian street-pop sensation Zinoleesky has officially parted ways with Marlian Music after spending nearly seven years under the label. In a move that has sent shockwaves across the entertainment industry, the singer has now unveiled his own record label, Zinodict, marking a bold new chapter in his career.
Zinoleesky, whose real name is Oniyide Azeez, rose to fame under the mentorship of Naira Marley, the founder of Marlian Music. Over the years, he became one of the label’s most successful acts, delivering hit songs and building a loyal fanbase both in Nigeria and beyond.
His exit from Marlian Music comes at a time when many artists are seeking greater creative control and financial independence. By launching Zinodict, Zinoleesky joins a growing list of Nigerian artists who are taking ownership of their careers and building their own brands.
To celebrate the launch of his new label, Zinoleesky released a fresh single titled “Nostalgia.” The track reflects his journey so far—touching on growth, struggles, and the realities of fame.
Fans have described the song as emotional and introspective, with many interpreting it as a subtle message about his experiences during his time at Marlian Music. The sound blends his signature street vibe with a more mature and reflective tone, hinting at the direction he plans to take moving forward.
While Zinoleesky has not gone into full detail about the reasons behind his departure, industry insiders suggest a mix of factors:
His exit also comes amid ongoing scrutiny and controversies that have surrounded Marlian Music in recent years, which may have influenced his decision to move on.
The news has sparked massive reactions across social media. While some fans expressed shock at his departure, many others applauded the move, calling it a “boss decision.”
Supporters believe Zinoleesky has grown beyond being just an artist under a label and is now ready to take on a leadership role in the industry. Others, however, are curious about how the transition will affect his sound and consistency.
Zinodict is expected to serve as both a record label and a creative platform for emerging talents. Though details are still limited, sources close to the singer say the label will focus on:
This move positions Zinoleesky not just as an artist, but as a music executive and entrepreneur.
Zinoleesky’s decision reflects a larger trend in the Nigerian music industry, where artists are increasingly prioritizing independence. Global success has opened new doors, allowing artists to monetize their music without relying solely on traditional label structures.
With heavyweights like Wizkid and Davido also building powerful personal brands, younger artists are following suit—choosing ownership over long-term label contracts.
Now fully in control of his career, expectations are high. Fans are eager to see:
The success of this new chapter will largely depend on how well he manages the business side of music while maintaining the creativity that made him famous.
Zinoleesky’s exit from Marlian Music is more than just a label switch—it’s a statement. It signals growth, ambition, and a desire to shape his own destiny in an industry that is rapidly evolving.
As he steps into this new era with Zinodict, one thing is clear: Zinoleesky is no longer just an artist to watch—he’s becoming a force to reckon with.
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