Skales: From Rap Battles to Afropop Stardom

Early Life and Background

Raoul John Njeng-Njeng, popularly known as Skales, was born on 1 April 1991 in Kaduna, Nigeria.

Raised by a single mother who worked tirelessly to support him, Skales grew up with deep exposure to Northern Nigeria’s cultural blend. His passion for music began in secondary school, where he actively participated in rap battles and wrote his own songs.

He later attended the University of Jos and later transferred to Lead City University, Ibadan, where he studied Office Management.

Musical Career

Skales began his professional journey in 2000s Kaduna, performing in local competitions before moving to Lagos to chase his dream. His big break came in 2009 when he signed with Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E.), the record label co-owned by Banky W. and featuring Wizkid and Shaydee.

Under E.M.E., Skales released singles like Mukulu and Komole while featuring on the collective album Empire Mates State of Mind (2012).

After leaving E.M.E. in 2014, he launched his own label OHK Music and reinvented himself as an Afropop/dancehall artist, moving away from his rap beginnings. His 2015 debut album Man of the Year produced the nationwide anthem Shake Body.

Key Milestones

• 2009: Signed to E.M.E., releasing early singles.
• 2012: Featured on Empire Mates State of Mind compilation.
• 2014: Left E.M.E., founded OHK Music.
• 2015: Released Man of the Year album → smash hit Shake Body.
• 2017: Released The Never Say Never Guy, with songs like Booty Language.
• 2018: Released Mr. Love, featuring collaborations with African stars.
• 2020: Dropped Healing Process EP.
• 2021: Released Sweet Distractions.

Style and Influence

Skales’ music has evolved from pure rap and hip-hop to a fusion of:

• Afropop,
• Dancehall,
• Hip-hop & R&B.

His versatility allows him to jump between singing and rapping, while his lyrics often center on love, hustle, and party vibes.

Discography

Studio Albums & EPs

1. Man of the Year (2015)
   • Shake Body
   • I Am for Real
   • Je Kan Mo
2. The Never Say Never Guy (2017)
   • Booty Language (feat. Sarkodie)
   • Temper (Remix feat. Burna Boy)
   • Gbefun One Time (feat. Burna Boy)
3. Mr. Love (2018)
   • Fire Waist (feat. Harmonize)
   • Pass (feat. Yung L & Endia)
4. Healing Process (EP, 2020)
   • God Is Good
   • Badman Love
   • Done to Me
5. Sweet Distractions (2021)
   • Katapot
   • Selecta
   • N2S (Nobody to Somebody)

Selected Hit Singles

• Mukulu (2009)
• Komole (2010)
• Shake Body (2014)
• I Am for Real (2015)
• Temper (2016; Remix feat. Burna Boy)
• Booty Language (feat. Sarkodie, 2017)
• Fire Waist (feat. Harmonize, 2018)
• Badman Love (2020)

Awards and Recognition

• Winner of the Northern Nigeria talent competition (2008), which first gave him national recognition.
• Nominated for Headies Awards and Nigeria Entertainment Awards.
• Celebrated for his consistency and ability to reinvent his style in a competitive Afrobeats industry.

Conclusion

From his Kaduna beginnings to global Afropop stages, Skales has proven his versatility and resilience. Whether rapping, singing, or blending both, he continues to deliver hits that resonate with fans across Africa and beyond. His journey from E.M.E. to building OHK Music showcases his determination to carve his own path in Nigeria’s music history.