By Benjamin Njoku

Evado Lee, who was dubbed the ‘New Problem’ is a force to watch in the Nigerian music scene this year. The Abakpa born-rapper began his journey into music in the church, where his dedication and raw talent caught attention.

From an early stage, his commitment to music convinced many around him that he possessed the potential for a remarkable career. His transition into rap was largely influenced by Hugo P, a longtime collaborator and childhood friend. Evado frequently accompanied Hugo P and other artists to studio sessions, observing, learning, and gradually shaping his sound. These early experiences helped him develop his artistry beyond singing, establishing him as a rapper in his own right.

By 2019, Evado was already releasing music on Audiomack, a platform he later described as his favourite during Audiomack’s Home Hero documentary. In 2020, he released his debut EP “Can’t Fold”, a project that introduced him to a wider audience. Momentum continued to build with the release of “Drunk in Pain” in 2023 and its follow up, “Still Drunk in Pain”, in 2024, both of which deepened his connection with listeners and strengthened his presence in the industry.

His most defining moment arrived in 2025 with the release of the single “My Pay”. The song became a street anthem, dominating playlists across neighbourhoods and cities and firmly positioning Evado as one of the hottest artists of the year. The record’s success drew the attention of indigenous rap icon Phyno, leading to their collaboration on “Ilu Agha”, a track that went on to record impressive numbers across digital streaming platforms.