Damilola Akinwunmi, widely known as Dapper Damm, is a prominent Nigerian music executive and talent manager, celebrated for his significant contributions to the Afrobeats genre.
Born in 1989, Damilola’s journey into the music industry began during his university years at the University of Lagos, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Sociology. During a six-month academic strike in 2012, he co-founded Phase Media with friends, focusing on photography and talent management. This venture led him to manage artists like Dotman, marking his initial foray into the music scene.
In 2016, Damilola joined Temple Management Company, overseeing talents such as Iyanya and Adey. By 2018, he ventured into music distribution, recognizing the industry’s digital shift, and founded Dapper Music. Initially operating solo, he distributed music for various artists, laying the foundation for his company.
Dapper Music has been instrumental in promoting street-pop artists, contributing to the rise of talents like Seyi Vibez, Shallipopi, TI Blaze, and Skibii. The label’s resilience and dedication have significantly impacted Africa’s music landscape. Beyond label services, Dapper Music has established itself as a renowned music distribution company in Nigeria, releasing chart-topping songs and supporting a diverse range of artists.
Damilola’s vision emphasizes retaining African culture in music exports, ensuring authenticity in Afrobeats’ global appeal. He is committed to providing opportunities for talented artists, especially those lacking exposure, to achieve success. Under Damilola’s leadership, Dapper Music continues to shape the future of Afrobeats, bridging the gap between street music and the global stage. His innovative approach and dedication have solidified his reputation as a key figure in Nigeria’s music industry.
