In a viral video or social media post, Portable stated that he has helped more upcoming artists in the Nigerian music industry than established figures like Olamide and Don Jazzy.

His justification typically centers around his own record label, Zeh Nation, and the artists he has been promoting and featuring since his rise to fame. He often points to:

• Direct Financial Support: He claims to give money and resources directly to street artists, a form of help he argues is more immediate and tangible.
• Features and Collaborations: He frequently features lesser-known artists on his songs, giving them a platform they might not otherwise have.
• “Street” Credibility: He frames his help as coming from the grassroots level, arguing that he is elevating his peers from the streets, just as he was elevated.

The Reality Check: Comparing Legacies

While Portable’s efforts to promote artists under his Zeh Nation imprint (like Young Duu, Money Geez, and others) are notable for his career stage, the claim that he has done more than Olamide and Don Jazzy is widely seen as factually inaccurate and a significant exaggeration.

Here’s a look at the established legacies of the industry giants he mentioned:

Olamide (Baddo)

Olamide is often called the “Talent Engine” or “King of the Streets” for his incredible track record of discovering and nurturing superstars. His influence is undeniable and spans over a decade.

• YBNL Nation Alumni:
  • Adekunle Gold: A global Afropop star.
  • Lil Kesh: A former street-pop sensation.
  • Fireboy DML: One of Nigeria’s biggest and most critically acclaimed artists.
  • Asake: A breakout global star who shattered records.
• Other Artists Helped: He has provided platforms and early career boosts for countless others, including Davido (early collaboration), Phyno, Bella Shmurda, and Zlatan.

Olamide’s model involves signing raw talent, giving them a platform on his label, and helping them mature into independent, successful artists.

Don Jazzy (Don Baba J)

Don Jazzy is a titan of the Nigerian music industry and one of its most successful producers and executives. He is the architect of two legendary record labels.

• Mo’ Hits Records (with D’Banj):
  • D’Banj: Became a continental superstar.
  • Wande Coal: Launched the career of one of Nigeria’s most vocalists.
  • Dr SID, D’Prince, K-Switch.
• Mavin Records:
  • Tiwa Savage: Became Nigeria’s leading female artist.
  • Reekado Banks: Won the Headies Rookie of the Year.
  • Rema: A global superstar with a Grammy nomination.
  • Ayra Starr: A global Afropop star.
  • LadiPoe, Johnny Drille, Magixx, Crayon.

Don Jazzy’s influence is institutional. He has built and rebuilt platforms that have consistently produced A-list artists for nearly two decades.

Analysis: Why Would Portable Make This Claim?

1. Publicity Stunt (Clout Chasing): Controversial statements generate headlines, social media engagement, and keep his name in the conversation. It’s a marketing strategy.
2. Unwavering Self-Belief: A core part of Portable’s persona is his extreme confidence and belief in his own impact. He genuinely sees himself as a force of nature.
3. Redefining “Help”: He may be defining “help” in his own terms—direct, cash-in-hand, street-level assistance—versus the more structured, long-term mentorship and label deals of Olamide and Don Jazzy.
4. Building His Brand: By comparing himself to the best, he attempts to elevate the status of his own Zeh Nation brand, positioning it as a new powerhouse.

While Portable is genuinely helping some artists from his community and building his own roster, his claim is not supported by the historical record, the scale of impact, or the number of globally successful artists launched by Olamide and Don Jazzy.

The statement is less a factual assessment and more a reflection of Portable’s unique, controversial, and highly effective approach to staying relevant in the competitive Nigerian music industry. It’s a testament to his ambition, even if the comparison itself is a stretch.

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