Adekunle Gold & Olamide Unite On New Single “Formation”; A Long Awaited YBNL Link-Up

Nigerian music star Adekunle Gold is set to reconnect with rap heavyweight Olamide on a highly anticipated new single titled “Formation,” scheduled for release on Thursday, April 9, 2026. The collaboration marks a significant full-circle moment, as it is their first official record together since Adekunle Gold’s departure from YBNL Nation; the label where his journey to stardom first began.

Adekunle Gold’s rise in the Nigerian music scene is rooted in his time under Olamide’s mentorship. Signed to YBNL in the early stages of his career, he broke into the mainstream with his hit single Sade, a track that introduced audiences to his distinctive fusion of highlife and contemporary Afropop. While his time at the label was relatively brief, it laid the foundation for a career that has since seen him evolve into one of Africa’s most versatile and globally recognized artists.

Since going independent, Adekunle Gold has undergone a notable artistic transformation, shifting from his initial “urban highlife” persona to a more polished, experimental sound that blends Afropop, R&B, and global influences. This evolution has not only expanded his fan base but also redefined his place in the industry.

Olamide, widely respected for his influence and consistency, has remained a central figure in Afrobeats, known for shaping the careers of several successful artists through YBNL. His relationship with Adekunle Gold adds a deeper layer of meaning to this collaboration, as it brings together mentor and protégé at a different stage in their respective careers.

The excitement surrounding “Formation” stems from this history. For fans, this is more than just a collaboration. It represents growth, independence, and a return to shared roots, all wrapped into one moment. Many are eager to hear how Adekunle Gold’s refined, contemporary sound will blend with Olamide’s street-driven energy, creating a track that balances nostalgia with freshness.