Zinoleesky Reaffirms Commitment to Marlian Records Amid Ongoing Speculation

Nigerian singer and songwriter Oniyide Azeez, professionally known as Zinoleesky, has publicly reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to Marlian Records, the influential label founded by fellow artist Naira Marley. The declaration comes at a time when rumors of a potential split have circulated within the Afrobeats community, fueled by Zinoleesky's recent social media activity and the label's turbulent history.

In a series of posts shared on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) earlier this week, Zinoleesky addressed fans directly, dispelling speculation about his future with the label. "Marlian forever – that's the vibe," he wrote in one update, accompanied by archival footage from his early days with the imprint.

He further elaborated in a follow-up statement: "Loyalty isn't a phase; it's who I am. We've built this together, and we're not stopping now." The posts, which garnered over 500,000 likes and thousands of shares within hours, appear to respond to earlier concerns raised by supporters amid the label's challenges.

Zinoleesky's association with Marlian Records dates back to December 2019, when he signed with the label following a bidding war that included offers from major players like Davido's DMW. Under Naira Marley's mentorship, the 25-year-old artist rose to prominence with hits like "Kilofeshe" and "Ma Pariwo," which dominated streaming charts and solidified his status as a key figure in Nigeria's street-pop scene. His debut album, *Chrome Eccentric* (2020), marked a pivotal moment, blending Fuji-inspired melodies with sharp lyricism that set him apart from peers.

However, the label has faced significant scrutiny in recent years, particularly following the tragic death of former Marlian signee Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, known as MohBad, in September 2023. MohBad's passing sparked widespread outrage over alleged mistreatment at the label, including claims of physical intimidation and contractual disputes. Zinoleesky, who remained largely silent during the ensuing investigations, was indirectly implicated in resurfaced videos where MohBad expressed feelings of betrayal by close associates. This led to a backlash, including tour cancellations and a dip in his streaming numbers, as fans called for accountability.

Adding to the tension, Zinoleesky briefly updated his social media bio in late 2023 to reference "Zinonymous Sounds," a move interpreted by many as a subtle hint toward independence. Though he quickly reverted the change, it amplified whispers of discontent. A cryptic Instagram post from November 22, 2025 – where he alluded to feeling "taken for granted" without naming specifics – reignited debates, with some interpreting it as a veiled critique of Marlian's leadership.

Despite these hurdles, Zinoleesky's latest affirmations signal a deliberate effort to mend fences and refocus on his artistry. Industry observers note that his decision aligns with a broader trend of reconciliation in the Nigerian music space, where personal and professional ties often intersect. "Zinoleesky's loyalty to Marlian isn't just contractual; it's cultural," said music analyst Tunde Akinsanmi. "Reinstating it publicly could stabilize his brand and pave the way for new collaborations."

As Marlian Records continues to navigate its post-MohBad era – including legal resolutions and artist welfare reforms – Zinoleesky's stance may bolster the label's resilience. Fans have responded positively, flooding comment sections with messages of support and calls for fresh music. With a rumored sophomore album in the works, the "Crown Prince of Marlian Music" appears poised for a comeback, proving that in the volatile world of Afrobeats, loyalty remains a potent force.