Zinoleesky Joins Sony Music Publishing, Expands Global Reach

By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

Lagos, Nigeria -November 8, 2026

Nigerian Afrobeats sensation, Oniyide Azeez, popularly known as Zinoleesky, has secured a new music publishing deal with Sony Music Publishing West Africa, marking another significant milestone in his musical career.

The announcement, made by Sony Music Publishing West Africa on Friday, November 6, 2026, welcomed the singer and songwriter to its growing roster, describing him as one of the standout voices in contemporary Afrobeats.

The development represents a major recognition of Zinoleesky’s songwriting abilities and growing influence in the Nigerian and international music industries.

In announcing the signing, Sony Music Publishing highlighted some of the singer’s popular records, including Ma Pariwo, Kilofeshe, Personal and Gone Far, which have contributed to his growing reputation as one of Nigeria’s prominent contemporary music talents.

The company expressed enthusiasm about working with the artiste, noting its readiness to support his creativity and future musical projects.

The Merit Newspaper reports that the latest agreement comes months after Zinoleesky parted ways with Marlian Music in April 2026, following several years with the record label owned by Nigerian singer Azeez Fashola, popularly known as Naira Marley.

Following his departure, the singer established his independent music imprint, Zinodict Music, through which he released his single, Nostalgia, signalling a new phase of independence and greater involvement in the business side of his musical career.

In another significant development, Zinoleesky expanded the operations of his label in October 2026 by signing emerging singer Waziyung as the first artiste under Zinodict Music. The signing marked his transition from being an artiste under an established record label to taking on responsibilities as a music entrepreneur and talent developer.

Born Oniyide Azeez, Zinoleesky gained prominence through social media freestyle performances before attracting wider attention in Nigeria’s music scene. His distinctive blend of Afrobeats, street-pop and contemporary sounds has helped him build a considerable following among music enthusiasts.

Over the years, he has released several successful records and projects, including Chrome Eccentric, Grit & Lust and his debut studio album, Gen Z, further strengthening his position in the Nigerian entertainment industry.

Although Sony Music Publishing has not publicly disclosed the financial terms, duration or specific catalogue coverage of the new agreement, the signing underscores the growing international recognition of Nigerian songwriters and the commercial value of Afrobeats compositions.

Unlike a conventional recording contract, a music publishing agreement generally focuses on the rights and commercial administration of musical compositions and songwriting. Consequently, the full scope of Zinoleesky’s new arrangement remains undisclosed.

With his independent label, growing catalogue and latest partnership with an internationally recognised music publishing company, Zinoleesky appears to be entering a new chapter in his career, combining his artistic ambitions with greater participation in the business of music.