“Zlatan Ibile Opens Up: The Exam Failure That Sparked My Music Journey”

According to Ireporter Online, Nigerian rapper and singer Zlatan Ibile has shared how a failed mathematics exam unexpectedly steered him toward a successful career in music.

In a recent interview with media personality Nandi Madida on Apple Music 1, the artist, whose real name is Omoniyi Temidayo Raphael, reflected on how his academic struggles became the turning point that led him to discover his passion for music. He revealed that his forthcoming album, Symbol of Hope, was inspired by his personal journey and aims to motivate individuals from humble beginnings never to give up.

Zlatan explained that long before he ever imagined becoming an artiste, he was an avid music lover who drew inspiration from musicians who rose from obscurity to stardom. “I used to listen to music before I even knew I was going to make music. I was already a fan of so many artistes and saw them as symbols — people whose lives changed from nothing to something. Now, being in this position myself, I see how my music inspires others not to give up,” he said. “That’s why I decided to call the album Symbol of Hope. It’s my way of saying, ‘If I can do it, you can too.’”

The Zanku crooner recounted that his initial plan was to pursue a university education, but his dreams were derailed after he failed to secure admission due to poor grades in mathematics and accounting. “I was supposed to go to university in 2011 or 2012, but I didn’t have my complete papers. My dad is a pastor, and I used to play drums in church, but I never thought I’d become an artiste. When I failed my exam, I started going to the studio with a friend. The first song I recorded was rubbish, but when I played it for my siblings, they made me feel like Jay-Z that day,” he recounted with a laugh.

Despite the setback, Zlatan’s determination and passion for music paid off when he participated in a rap competition and emerged the winner out of 140 contestants, an achievement that earned him a car and launched his career. “I didn’t even believe anyone could win a car through music. I was just 19, and it was only three weeks into school. That was when I started taking rap seriously. I was writing every day and night. That moment changed my life,” he revealed.

Reflecting on his artistic evolution, Zlatan also spoke about his globally recognised dance move, Zanku, which became synonymous with his brand and contributed significantly to his fame. “That’s Africa to the world. The most interesting thing is that I attached my name to it. There’s no way you’ll mention Zanku without mentioning Zlatan. Growing up, I always wanted to have my own dance move, and when it happened, it went viral globally,” he added.