MI Abaga

Renowned Nigerian rap icon Jude Abaga, better known as MI Abaga, has shared the intriguing backstory behind his relentless pursuit to discover and sign the incomparable vocalist Brymo to Chocolate City Records.

During an interview on Vbyz TV Cartel, Abaga revealed that after the sweeping success of his solo work, as well as that of his labelmates Jesse Jagz and Ice Prince, expanding the roster became a strategic priority for the label.

The award-winning producer, now 42, emphasized his vision of adding a dynamic singer to complete the label’s musical diversity, stating that he was determined to find the right artist.

Abaga recalled stumbling upon Brymo’s distinctive voice, describing how it took an entire year to track him down before sealing the deal with Chocolate City.

“Our momentum was unstoppable—my album soared, Jesse Jagz followed with a hit, then Ice Prince kept the streak alive. Success demanded expansion, and I knew we needed a game-changing vocalist to elevate our sound,” he shared.

“Initially, we explored collaborations with artists like Yung6ix and Shaydee, but fate led them elsewhere—Yung6ix to Storm Records, Shaydee to EME. Everything happens for a reason,” he added.

Abaga also touched on a serendipitous encounter with a young Wizkid, whom he featured early in his career, before reflecting on the pivotal moment he first heard Brymo’s voice.

“One day, this mesmerizing tone stopped me in my tracks—I had to know who it was. The search began, and after a year of persistence, I found Brymo. The moment he joined, Chocolate City’s legacy as a powerhouse was solidified,” he stated.

Olawale Ibrahim Ashimi, professionally known as Brymo, inked a deal with Chocolate City in 2010, catapulting to fame after his standout feature on Ice Prince’s chart-topper ‘Oleku’. His tenure with the label concluded in 2013.