Born Ololade Ahmed, Asake has become one of the most compelling voices in Afrobeat, a genre that continues to capture the world’s attention. His music, often infused with infectious rhythms and insightful lyrics, has positioned him as a key figure in global music. But while his sound has resonated across borders, his style has also undergone a significant transformation that mirrors his journey as an artist. From his early days as “Mr Money” to his current status as a global fashion icon, Asake’s style evolution is as dynamic as his music. The “Mr Money” Era: Humble Beginnings Asake first started gaining attention during the “Mr Money” era. This period was marked by the release of his single “Mr Money,” which not only became a hit but also gave him the nickname that would stick. In this era, Asake’s style was reflective of an emerging Afrobeat artist. His look was largely unremarkable, consisting of standard streetwear outfits, formal outfits (surprisingly), dreadlocks, and a few accessories. At this stage, Asake was still finding his footing, both musically and stylistically. His attire was functional and relatable, echoing the everyday style of many young men in Nigeria’s vibrant street culture. “Mr Money (But with the Vibe)”: The Rise of a Star Asake’s breakthrough came in 2022 with the release of “Omo Ope,” a track from his debut EP “Ololade Asake.” This song, featuring his record label boss Olamide, catapulted him into the spotlight. During this period, Asake’s style began to evolve, becoming more distinctive and deliberate. His golden dreads became a signature look, often paired with bandanas that added a pop of color and personality. While his fashion choices during this era were flashier, they still lacked the consistency that would come to define his later looks. However, as the year progressed and Asake dropped hits like “Peace Be Unto You,” “Sungba Remix,” “Palazzo,” “Terminator,” and “2:30,” his style took a noticeable turn. The release of his debut album “Mr Money with the Vibe” marked a significant shift. Asake began to step out of his comfort zone, experimenting with high-end pieces and daring combinations. It was during this era that he popularized the fitted mesh top and extreme baggy pants combo, a look that quickly became synonymous with his name. His hair, too, started to see more variation, signaling the beginning of his journey toward a more polished and intentional style. “A Work of Art”: Mastering the Aesthetic By the time Asake released his sophomore album “Work of Art,” he had fully embraced his role as both a musical and style icon. His style, much like his music, had matured and taken on a life of its own. Collaborating with celebrity stylists and creative directors like Raya, Elizabeth, and Linda Calixte, Asake began to craft a series of unforgettable looks that blended extravagance with streetwear chic. This era was characterized by bold fashion statements, both on and off the stage. Asake’s performances featured extravagant stage costumes, from elaborate ensembles that showcased his love for luxury to more avant-garde pieces that pushed the boundaries of Afrobeat fashion. His hairstyles during this period also became more experimental, with the introduction of noodle-like dreads and big, short chunky dreads. These hairstyles became integral to his identity, further distinguishing him from his peers. Asake’s magazine features during this period, including spreads in prestigious publications like GQ, rolling stone, etc highlighted his evolving style. These appearances solidified his status as a fashion-forward artist who was unafraid to take risks. His streetwear choices, often a mix of high-end and accessible brands, reflected his deep connection to his roots while also embracing global fashion trends. “The Lungu Boy”: Embracing Afrocentric Urban Aesthetics Asake’s most recent phase, marked by the release of his third studio album “Lungu Boy,” represents yet another evolution in his style journey. Ahead of this album’s rollout, Asake made a bold move by cutting his iconic dreads down to a fro, signaling a new chapter both in his career and personal style. This change was more than just a haircut; it was a statement of intent, showing that Asake was ready to explore new aesthetics while staying true to his Afrocentric roots. The “Lungu Boy” era is characterized by a mix of Afrocentric urban aesthetics and a more refined, mature look. The release of the single “Wave” previewed a hippy Afro-summer sound, which Asake complemented with a fresh, laid-back style that still carried the essence of his previous looks. His interactions with street culture icons like Walter Banks have influenced this new direction, blending global streetwear trends with a distinctly African flair. During this period, Asake took greater control over his style, working closely with creative directors and stylists like Succi and Kat. These collaborations resulted in a series of standout looks for major appearances, including his GQ feature, the Brit Awards, and the “Lungu Boy” world tour. Asake’s style in this era is a testament to his ability to continually reinvent himself while maintaining a strong connection to his cultural heritage. Asake’s Style Evolution: A Journey of Growth and Identity Asake’s style evolution is a reflection of his journey as an artist. From his early days as “Mr Money” with simple streetwear and dreadlocks to his current status as a global icon with a distinctive Afrocentric aesthetic Asake’s fashion choices have mirrored his growth and success in the music industry. Each era of Asake’s career has brought with it new challenges and opportunities, which he has embraced both musically and stylistically. His ability to adapt and reinvent himself has not only kept his music fresh but has also established him as a trendsetter in the world of fashion. Whether he’s rocking a mesh top and baggy pants combo or showcasing a more refined Afrocentric look, Asake’s style continues to evolve, capturing the attention of fans and fashion enthusiasts alike. As Asake continues to rise in the global music scene, his style is likely to keep evolving, reflecting his journey as an artist and his ever-growing influence.
