Khaid Reveals His Journey From Mechanic to Afrobeats Star

 

Khaid Reveals How He Went From Fixing Cars in Lagos to Pursuing Music

Nigerian singer Khaid has opened up about the challenges he faced before finding success in the music industry, revealing that he worked as a mechanic in Lagos while holding on to his dream of becoming a musician.

The singer, whose name is Sulaimon Shekoni Solomon, told Kenyan publication TUKO.co.ke that his journey was far from easy. Before his music career took off, he also worked in areas such as painting and barbering to make ends meet.

Despite the challenges, Khaid said he never abandoned his ambition to make music.

His story offers a glimpse into the difficult beginnings that can sit behind an artist's public success.

How Sydney Talker Discovered Him

Khaid's major breakthrough came after Nigerian content creator Sydney Talker noticed his talent on social media.

That discovery opened the door to a professional music career and helped introduce Khaid to a wider audience.

His debut single, With You, attracted millions of streams, while songs such as Jolie and Anabella helped establish his name among emerging Afrobeats acts.

His collaboration with Boy Spyce on Carry Me Go also helped broaden his audience.

Khaid later earned a Rookie of the Year nomination at the 2023 Headies Awards, marking an important milestone in his rise.

From the Streets of Lagos to a Bigger African Audience

Khaid is now looking beyond Nigeria, expressing a desire to visit Kenya and perform for fans in East Africa.

The singer said he wants Kenyan listeners to experience his music and learn more about the person behind his songs.

That ambition reflects the growing movement of Afrobeats across the continent, where artists are increasingly seeking audiences beyond their home countries.

For emerging Nigerian musicians, reaching fans in other African markets can create opportunities for performances, collaborations and stronger international recognition.

Na From Grass to Grace, But the Hustle No Easy

Make we talk true: no be everybody wey get talent go blow overnight. Some people go spend years dey struggle, work different jobs and still dey hold on to the dream wey dem get.

Khaid’s story show say before the fame, there was a young man trying to make ends meet while looking for an opportunity to show wetin he fit do.

The interesting part be say, even when he dey work as mechanic and handle other jobs, he never completely abandon music.

But make we no deceive young people too: success no come only because person work hard. Opportunity, support, timing and preparation fit also play big roles.

Khaid’s experience reminds aspiring musicians to keep developing their skills while making the most of genuine opportunities when they come.

Khaid Wants to Connect With Kenyan Fans

Kenya has become an important market for African music, with listeners embracing sounds from Nigeria, South Africa and other parts of the continent.

Khaid's interest in performing there could help him build a stronger relationship with East African fans.

While a visit or concert has not been confirmed in the report, his stated ambition shows that he is interested in taking his music to a wider audience.

An Inspiring Story for Young Creatives

Khaid’s journey highlights the importance of persistence, but it also shows how being discovered by someone with a platform can change an artist’s direction.

His story may resonate with young Nigerians who are balancing work and personal ambitions while waiting for an opportunity to showcase their abilities.

For now, Khaid continues to build his music career, with the possibility of reaching more listeners across Africa.

Do you think social media has made it easier for talented young Nigerians to get discovered, or do many artists still struggle to get the opportunity they deserve? Share your thoughts.