From Nigeria To Baltimore Wátifé’s Global Sound

In today’s global music scene, Afrobeats continues to surge forward, captivating audiences far beyond the shores of Nigeria. Among the rising voices contributing to its evolution is Wátifé, an artist whose journey spans continents, cultures, and sounds.

Born Boluwatife and raised in Nigeria, Wátifé’s name is more than just a stage alias—it’s a reflection of identity and transformation. “I used to go by 3atife, but I changed it to Wátifé to mark a new chapter,” he explains. That shift in name signaled a deeper shift in his music, one that leans into authenticity and creative growth.

Since moving to the United States nearly six years ago, Wátifé has found himself navigating the unique space of being an Afrobeats artist based in Baltimore. “It’s a great city with a lot of culture,” he says, “but it’s not exactly the epicenter of Afrobeats. Placement matters when you’re trying to build momentum.” Still, his roots remain central to his sound. Fusing Afrobeat rhythms with Western influences, Wátifé’s music paints a sonic picture of migration, memory, and ambition.

For Wátifé, music is both universal and deeply personal. He draws inspiration from African percussion, from genre-defying artists, and from the flow of everyday life. “I don’t stick to one creative process. Some days it’s the beat that’s hard, other days it’s finding the words. But I always create from a place of truth.”

That truth is also reflected in his vision for the genre. He sees Afrobeats continuing to expand and evolve, and he’s determined to help shape that growth by staying innovative while honoring tradition. “Respecting the culture is important. I never want to lose that in my music.”

Wátifé credits Nigerian icon Olamide as one of his biggest influences—someone whose music soundtracked his early teen years and whose versatility still inspires him. “If I could collaborate with anyone, it’d be Olamide. And Fela Kuti, if that were still possible.”

While he’s proud of his independent journey so far, Wátifé is open to new opportunities, including traveling or relocating for the right moment. “Everything I’ve done up until now has been on my own,” he says, “but I’m always open to growing.”

For Wátifé, being an Afrobeats artist isn’t just about the sound. It’s about a lifestyle, a cultural connection, and a message. “Nigeria has so much energy and soul, even through tough times,” he says. “I want my music to reflect that the joy and the fight.”

As his journey continues, Wátifé is just getting started. His new single, “Give Me My Money,” drops this Friday, May 9th, across all streaming platforms—a track that’s sure to reflect his sharp lyricism, cross-continental influences, and relentless drive.