Boluwatife Ayodeji Balogun, the 14-year-old son of Grammy Award-winning Afrobeats superstar Wizkid, has officially launched his music career with the release of his debut EP, Champion’s Arrival.
The project, which arrived on digital streaming platforms on Tuesday, November 11, introduces the young artist performing under the stage name Champz. The five-track EP is released through his independent label, Champz Music, and is now available on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and Audiomack.
Champz announced the release via his social media platforms with a post that declared: “11/11: The Champion has arrived. My debut EP ‘Champion’s Arrival’ Out Now on all streaming platforms!”
The EP features tracks titled “Grind,” “Superstar,” “Championo,” “Champion Montana,” and “Champion Sound.” According to Champz, the project represents “the sound of a young artist stepping fully into his power, grounded in family, love, and resilience, yet unafraid to dream loud.”
Unlike his father’s signature Afropop style, the young artist has carved out his own sonic identity with a blend of rap, Afroswing, and trap production. Performing with a British accent that reflects his upbringing in the United Kingdom, Champz delivers personal narratives across the project, addressing themes including his school experiences, support from his mother, and criticism surrounding “nepo baby” discussions.
In one of the standout moments from the EP, Champz asserts his ambition on “Champion Sound,” rapping: “Shoutout to the OGs in the game, but it’s time to pass on the baton to champion.” The line has generated significant social media conversation, with fans viewing it as a respectful acknowledgement of established artists while declaring his readiness to join Nigeria’s competitive music landscape.
On “Superstar,” Champz opens up about personal struggles, revealing he had given love a chance and vowed to show love to his future children. Notably, the artist does not directly mention his father, Wizkid, in any of the five songs, as he focuses on establishing his independent identity.
The project had been highly anticipated following viral snippets Champz shared weeks prior to the official release. The teasers showcased his lyrical ability and confident delivery, qualities that defied expectations for someone his age.
Within five hours of its release, Champion’s Arrival debuted at number one on several music platforms and began charting in 16 countries on Apple Music, including reaching number 71 on UK Apple Music Top Albums.
The release positions Champz as part of a rare father-son duo in Afrobeats, the first since the legendary Kuti family. Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti’s musical dynasty continued through his sons Femi Kuti and Seun Kuti, along with grandson Made Kuti.
The parallels between Champz’s debut and his father’s early career are striking. Wizkid also began his musical journey at a young age, starting in a church choir before releasing his first collaborative album at 11 years old under the moniker “Lil Prinz.”
With Champion’s Arrival, Champz signals his entry into an industry known for its fierce competition and high standards. Industry observers and fans alike have expressed interest in watching the young artist develop his craft over time, with many anticipating potential future collaborations between father and son.
The debut project represents more than just another celebrity child entering entertainment. It marks the beginning of what Champz describes as a journey towards “self-made excellence,” positioning himself as an artist determined to earn recognition through his own talent and work ethic rather than relying solely on family legacy.
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