Naira Marley Biography, Net Worth, And Career Highlights

If you’re a Nigerian, you’ve definitely heard the phrase “Marlians come forward!” Omo, that’s the anthem of millions of fans who follow Naira Marley, the street-hop general, social media lightning rod, and cultural influencer. From his breakout Issa Goal to controversial jams like Am I A Yahoo Boy and dance-inducing tracks like Soapy and Tesumole, he has stamped his name on Nigerian music.

But who really is Naira Marley? How did he rise? What’s his net worth in 2025? And why is he one of the most talked-about artists in Nigeria? Let’s gist about the Marlian president in detail.

Early Life & Background

Born Azeez Adeshina Fashola on 10 May 1991 in Badagry, Lagos State, Naira Marley moved to Peckham, South London at age 11.

He wasn’t originally planning to be an artist. In fact, he studied Business and later Business Law in the UK. However, as a teenager, music drew him in. His friends often encouraged him to rap, and by 2013–2014, he was experimenting with Afrobeats and hip hop.

He chose the stage name Naira Marley in honor of Bob Marley, even adopting dreadlocks to mirror the reggae legend’s iconic look. This identity would later become a symbol of rebellion and street authenticity.

Career Beginnings

His debut EP, “Gotta Dance” (2014), didn’t gain much mainstream attention, but it laid the foundation for his unique style, a blend of Afrobeats, street pop, and hip hop.

Things changed in 2017 when he released “Issa Goal” featuring Olamide and Lil Kesh. The track became Nigeria’s unofficial anthem during the 2018 FIFA World Cup and shot Naira Marley into the limelight.

Unlike many Afrobeats artists chasing international appeal, Naira Marley embraced street culture. His music reflected the struggles, slang, and raw energy of the average Nigerian youth.

Rise to Fame & Marlian Movement

In 2019, Naira Marley dropped “Am I A Yahoo Boy” featuring Zlatan Ibile. The song sparked massive controversy, coinciding with his arrest by the EFCC for alleged internet fraud.

Ironically, the scandal boosted his popularity. Fans saw him as a “voice of the streets,” unfiltered and daring. That same year, he released “Soapy,” “Tesumole,” and “Mafo,” cementing his reputation as the king of street jams.

By 2020, Naira Marley launched Marlian Records, signing acts like Zinoleesky, Mohbad (RIP), C Blvck, and Fabian Blu. The Marlian fanbase grew into a cultural identity,known for bold fashion, street slang, and rebellious freedom.

Discography & Notable Songs

•EPs: Gotta Dance (2014), Lord of Lamba (LOL) (2019)

•Album: God’s Timing’s The Best (2022)

Hit Singles include:

  •Issa Goal (2017)

  •Japa (2018)

  •Am I A Yahoo Boy (2019)

  •Soapy (2019)

  •Tesumole (2019)

  •Aye (2020)

  •Coming (2021)

  •First Time in America (2021)

  •O’dun (2022)

These songs shaped the street-pop movement, influencing artists like Zinoleesky, Portable, and Bella Shmurda.

Controversies

Naira Marley thrives on controversy:

2019 EFCC Arrest: Charged with 11 counts of internet fraud after Am I A Yahoo Boy. He was bailed after weeks in detention.

Soapy Dance Craze: His 2019 hit Soapy drew criticism for promoting indecent dance moves, but it still went viral.

COVID-19 Party (2020): He was arrested for violating lockdown rules.

Mohbad’s Death (2023): After Marlian signee Mohbad died mysteriously, fingers pointed at Naira Marley and his label. This sparked boycotts and bans of his music. He denied involvement but his reputation took a hit.

Despite all this, controversies only made him more famous, true Marlian style.

Naira Marley’s Net Worth (2025)

When it comes to money, Naira Marley has stacked serious cash:

Net Worth Estimates: Ranges between $5 million – $10 million (₦5 billion – ₦10 billion approx.)

Income Sources:

•Music sales & streams (Spotify, Apple Music, Boomplay)

•Concerts and tours

•Marlian Records signings

•Endorsements and brand deals

•YouTube monetization

Lifestyle: Naira Marley owns luxurious cars (Bentley, Mercedes, Porsche) and real estate in Lagos. Despite his flashy image, he still identifies strongly with street culture.

Naira Marley’s Influence & Legacy

Music: He pioneered the modern Nigerian street-hop sound, blending Yoruba, English, and Pidgin with street vibes.

Culture: “Marlian” became a national slang,describing free-spirited, rebellious youths.

Fashion: From sagging jeans to bold hairstyles, his style influenced street trends.

Business: Through Marlian Records, he provided a platform for upcoming stars like Zinoleesky and Mohbad.

Love him or hate him, Naira Marley is more than an artist—he’s a cultural phenomenon.

What is Naira Marley’s real name?

Azeez Adeshina Fashola.

How old is Naira Marley in 2025?

He is 34 years old (born May 10, 1991).

What was his breakout song?

“Issa Goal” (2017).

What is his net worth in 2025?

Estimated between $5M–$10M.

Who are the artists signed under Marlian Records?

Previously Zinoleesky, Mohbad (RIP), C Blvck, Fabian Blu.

Why is he called Marlian President?

Because he founded Marlian Records and leads the massive fanbase known as “Marlians.”

Has he faced legal issues?

Yes, most notably his 2019 EFCC fraud case and the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown arrest.

Conclusion

From Badagry to Peckham, then Lagos, Naira Marley carved a niche for himself as the street-hop king of Nigeria. His journey proves that raw authenticity, controversy, and connection to the streets can build a lasting legacy.

For Nigerians, Naira Marley is more than music, he’s a reflection of our hustle, struggles, and bold energy. Whether you’re a Marlian or not, one thing is clear: Naira Marley has written his name into Nigerian music history.