In the ever-evolving landscape of Nigerian music, few names command as much respect as Olumide Ogunade, popularly known as ID Cabasa. A visionary producer, label boss, and artist, Cabasa has been instrumental in shaping the careers of some of Nigeria’s biggest stars. From discovering Olamide to nurturing talents like 9ice, Reminisce, and Banky W, his influence on Afrobeats and hip-hop is undeniable. But who is the man behind the hits?
From Akoka to Afrodicia: The Early Days
Born on July 29, 1975, in Lagos, ID Cabasa was the third child in a family of four. His love for music began in his teenage years while attending St. Finbarr’s College, Akoka. Just a stone’s throw away from his home was the legendary Afrodicia Record Studio (formerly Peca Records), the breeding ground for icons like Fela Kuti, Ebenezer Obey, and King Sunny Ade. Young Cabasa would often sneak into the studio, soaking up the creative process like a sponge.
Despite his passion for music, he pursued higher education, earning a degree in Economics from Lagos State University and later a Master’s in Management Economics from the University of Lagos. After a brief stint in banking, he took a leap of faith—ditching the corporate world to chase his true calling: music production.
The Birth of Coded Tunes and a Movement
In 2002, Cabasa co-founded Coded Tunes, a record label that would become a Launchpad for Nigeria’s next generation of stars. Before it was a label, it was a cultural movement. Alongside 2Phat, Lord of Ajasa, and MC Spakoto, he formed The Smiling Head Soldiers, a collective that blended rap, street poetry, and Yoruba lyricism.
But the real magic happened when the Yabtown Squad—a group of young, hungry artists including Reminisce—started gathering at the studio. What began as freestyle sessions soon evolved into something bigger. Coded Tunes wasn’t just a label; it was a creative hub where raw talent met opportunity.
The Hitmaker’s Legacy
Cabasa’s production style—hard-hitting drums, indigenous lyricism, and street authenticity—defined an era. He crafted 9ice’s “Gongo Aso,” Olamide’s early anthems, and Reminisce’s rugged bars, proving that Nigerian music could be both commercially successful and culturally rooted.
Though he stepped back from the limelight in later years, his impact remains. Today, as Afrobeats dominates globally, many forget that pioneers like ID Cabasa laid the foundation.
Lessons from a Music Maverick
– Passion Over Pay checks: Leaving banking for music was risky, but his belief in his craft paid off.
– Mentorship Matters: Coded Tunes wasn’t just a business—it was a family that nurtured talent.
– Stay True to Your Roots: Cabasa’s sound was unapologetically Nigerian, blending tradition with modernity.
As we celebrate the new wave of Afrobeats stars, let’s not forget the architects like ID Cabasa—the quiet genius who helped build a movement.
What’s your favorite ID Cabasa-produced track? Drop a comment below!
