Azeez Adeshina Fashola (born May 10, 1991) was born in Badagry, Lagos State, Nigeria. He is a British-Nigerian singer, songwriter, and the president of the controversial fan base called "Marlians". He is professionally known as Naira Marley. Naira Marley had aspirations of becoming an MC and a voice-over artist. However, after discovering his passion for music in 2014, he decided to pursue a career as a singer, encouraged by his close-knit group of friends. In the same year, he released his debut EP titled "Gotta Dance," featuring the track "Marry Juana" with Max Twigz.
Naira Marley gained significant recognition in December 2017 when he released the single "Issa Goal," featuring Olamide and Lil Kesh. The song became the theme song for the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, during the 2018 FIFA World Cup. A remix of the track was later released in June 2018, featuring additional vocals from Falz, Simi, and Slimcase.
His music combines elements of Afrobeats and hip-hop, and he sings in English, Pidgin, and Yoruba. Naira Marley drew inspiration from Jamaican singer Bob Marley, whom he greatly admires, and even pays homage to him through his dreadlocks.
In May 2019, Naira Marley released the song "Am I A Yahoo Boy" featuring Zlatan. However, on the same day of its release, he was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Following his release from prison, he dropped the controversial track "Soapy" in June 2019. The song garnered attention and sparked debates due to its explicit lyrics and suggestive dance moves.
In December 2019, Naira Marley released his second EP titled "Lord of Lamba," featuring a fusion of Afrobeats and hip-hop across six tracks. The EP included collaborations with artists like CBlvck, Young John, and Mayorkun. During the "Marlian Fest" held in December 2019, Naira Marley announced the launch of his record label, Marlian Records, and introduced signed acts such as CBlvck, Zinoleesky, Fabian Blu, and later, Emo Grae.
On 21 June 2021, Naira Marley revealed on his Instagram handle that he would be releasing a new album titled 'God's Timing Is The Best.' He also mentioned that the album's release would be preceded by the unveiling of the official music video for his track "COMING."
