The ancient city of Ile-Ife stood still for a moment of pride and history as the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, warmly received Afrobeats sensation Asake and his mother at the royal palace, describing the visit as a powerful homecoming rooted in culture, identity, and destiny.
In a video shared on the monarch’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the Ooni affectionately referred to the “Lonely at the Top” hitmaker as “my son,” a phrase heavy with meaning in Yoruba tradition. The moment wasn’t just ceremonial — it was symbolic. A global star returning to the soil that shaped him.
During the visit, Asake performed one of his hit songs before the Ooni and other dignitaries present, blending modern Afrobeats energy with centuries-old royalty. The atmosphere was a rare fusion of past and present — drums in the blood, fame in the air. To crown the moment, the Ooni presented the singer with a special artwork from his personal collection, a gesture signifying honor, legacy, and acceptance.
Sharing his thoughts, the Ooni expressed deep joy over the visit, emphasizing that Ile-Ife played a crucial role in Asake’s formative years. According to him, the sacred land helped mold the artist through hard work, discipline, and quiet determination — values that now echo in Asake’s music and journey.
“Today fills my heart with deep joy as I welcome my son, Asake, back home to Ile-Ife,” the monarch wrote. “This sacred land is where he spent many of his formative years… To return home after such a journey is a blessing, and I receive him with pride and open arms.”
The royal father didn’t stop there. He poured glowing praise on Asake’s mother, describing her as a steadfast pillar whose resilience and love laid the foundation for the singer’s success. In true Yoruba fashion, flowers were given where they were due — loudly and clearly.
The Ooni also acknowledged Asake’s management team, paying special tribute to Lala and the entire crew for standing firmly behind the artist. He described their loyalty and dedication as a true reflection of the Omoluabi spirit — the Yoruba ideal of good character.
In a broader cultural nod, Obafemi Awolowo University was also recognized for its role in shaping Asake, with special appreciation extended to Professor Toyin Ogundeji. The monarch described the singer as more than just a musician, calling him a cultural ambassador who has carried Yoruba heritage onto the global stage with confidence and pride.
The visit closed on a powerful note, with the Ooni declaring that a global star had returned to his roots — not as a stranger, but as a son.
It was a reminder that no matter how high the climb, the roots still matter. Fame may take you global, but home will always claim you.