Maleek Berry – Kontrol
| Stage Name: | Benjamin Lugo |
| Real Name: | Benjamin Abba Nnayelugo Touitou |
| Occupation: | Musician |
| Date Of Birth/Age: | 11th August, 1987 (35 years old) |
| State of Origin: | Lagos State |
| Gender: | Male |
| Nationality: | British-born Nigerian |
| Marital Status: | Not Married |
| Education: | Tampere University. Accra |
| Known for: | Kontrol |
Early Life and Education
Okunola Abdul Maleek Anu-Oluwapo Shoyebi, popularly known as Maleek Berry, was born on August 11, 1987, in London, United Kingdom. Growing up in a culturally diverse environment, Maleek had a strong connection to his Nigerian roots, which later played a significant role in shaping his musical identity. His early exposure to different genres of music set the foundation for his future career.
Maleek completed his education in London, where he developed a keen interest in music production and recording. His academic journey, coupled with his passion for music, laid the groundwork for a successful career in the music industry.
Breakthrough into the Spotlight
In 2012, Maleek Berry made a notable breakthrough into the music scene, capturing the attention of both fans and industry professionals. His unique sound, blending elements of Afrobeat, R&B, and dancehall, set him apart as a versatile artist and producer. The same year marked the beginning of his collaboration with some of the most prominent names in the Nigerian and international music scenes.
Nigeria Entertainment Awards Nomination
The recognition of Maleek Berry’s talent came to fruition in 2014 when he received a nomination for “Music Producer of the Year” at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards. This acknowledgment solidified his position as a key player in the Nigerian music industry, showcasing his exceptional skills as both a producer and recording artist.
Collaborations and Starboy Label
Maleek Berry’s journey in the music industry has been characterized by impactful collaborations with renowned artists. His production credits and featured vocals have graced tracks by Wizkid, Davido, Wale, Fuse ODG, Runtown, and Iyanya, among others. His association with the Starboy Label further elevated his status in the industry.
MOBO Awards Nomination
The year 2017 marked another milestone in Maleek Berry’s career when he received a nomination in the “Best Male” category at the MOBO Awards. This recognition at an international level underscored the global impact of his music and established him as one of the leading figures in the Afrobeat genre.
Discography Overview
Maleek Berry’s discography is a testament to his versatility and creativity. From early singles like “The Matter” and “Love You” featuring Wizkid to later hits such as “Kontrol” and “Been Calling,” he has consistently delivered chart-topping and critically acclaimed tracks. His EPs, including “Last Daze of Summer” and “First Daze of Winter,” showcased the depth of his musical prowess.
In 2018, Maleek Berry continued to make waves with singles like “Sisi Maria,” “Gimmie Life,” and “Love You Long Time” featuring Chip. Each release demonstrated his ability to seamlessly blend various musical influences while maintaining a distinct sound that resonates with a global audience.
As a Featured Artist
Maleek Berry’s influence extends beyond his solo projects. His collaborations as a featured artist, such as “Sit Back Down” with Not3s and “Zulu Screams” with GoldLink, further showcased his versatility and ability to complement diverse musical styles.
Production Discography
Beyond his success as an artist, Maleek Berry has left an indelible mark as a sought-after producer. His production credits include hits like Wizkid‘s “The Matter,” Davido‘s “Video” and “For You,” and numerous other tracks that have contributed to the success of various artists across the Nigerian music scene.
Awards and Nominations
Maleek Berry’s contributions to the music industry have been acknowledged through prestigious nominations. In 2014, he was nominated for “Music Producer of the Year” at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards, a recognition of his outstanding work behind the scenes. In 2017, the MOBO Awards nominated him in the categories of “Best Male Act” and “Best African Act,” further solidifying his status as a leading figure in the global music landscape.
Wife and Kids
He is single and has no kids.
Net Worth
Maleek Berry has achieved significant financial success in his career, amassing a net worth of over $400,000. Through his thriving career as a record producer and recording artist, Maleek Berry has not only made a name for himself in the music industry but has also secured a comfortable financial standing. You can connect with him on Instagram.