After months of strategic teasers that kept fans guessing, legendary music producer and Mavin Records CEO Don Jazzy finally pulled back the curtain on his label’s newest signing today. The industry icon introduced 17-year-old musical prodigy Oluwakemi “Lil Koko” Adeleke during an elaborate presentation at the Mavin headquarters in Lagos, ending weeks of speculation about the identity of the mystery artist.Eyewitnesses described an electric atmosphere as the teenage sensation performed a three-song set that showcased her impressive vocal range and songwriting skills, reportedly bringing veteran industry executives to their feet. Don Jazzy, known for his golden touch in discovering talent, told reporters that he had been mentoring Lil Koko for nearly two years after discovering her through online cover videos.
Industry analysts noted the careful buildup to today’s announcement, with Mavin Records having dropped cryptic social media posts since April featuring only the young artist’s eyes and vocal snippets. The label’s marketing strategy appears to have paid off, as #LilKokoMavin immediately trended nationwide following the reveal.
Music critics who attended the private showcase praised the newcomer’s unique blend of Afrobeat rhythms with contemporary R&B influences, with some comparing her early sound to a fusion of Tiwa Savage and Ayra Starr. The latter comparison seems particularly apt, as Starr herself welcomed Lil Koko to the Mavin family during the event, signaling a potential mentorship.
Sources close to the label revealed that Lil Koko’s debut single, reportedly titled “Sugar Rush,” has already been scheduled for release next month, with plans for a full EP before the end of the summer. The signing marks Don Jazzy’s latest strategic move to future-proof the influential label, following his recent successes in developing the next generation of Afrobeat stars.
As the Nigerian music industry absorbs this latest development, all eyes remain on how this teenage talent will navigate the spotlight under the guidance of one of Africa’s most respected music impresarios.
