July 28, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke
Fifteen years after his untimely passing, Oladapo Olaitan Olaonipekun, popularly known as Dagrin, continues to leave an indelible mark on Nigerian music history.
The Recording Academy, the prestigious body behind the GRAMMY Awards, has paid tribute to his groundbreaking hit “Pon Pon Pon” by naming it one of the top 10 songs that have shaped the global evolution of Afrobeats.
This remarkable distinction highlights “Pon Pon Pon” as the only rap song on the list, solidifying its impact on the music industry. Released in 2009, the street anthem was more than just a hit – it was a game-changer that redefined the Nigerian music landscape.
With its gritty beats and raw Yoruba lyricism, “Pon Pon Pon” remains a cultural phenomenon, capturing the essence of Lagos life with unparalleled precision.
The song’s influence extends beyond its musical merit, as it introduced a generation to the authenticity of indigenous rap.
At a time when Nigerian mainstream music was dominated by pop melodies and foreign influences, Dagrin boldly brought the language and reality of the streets to the forefront.
The journey to preserve Dagrin’s legacy has been a meticulous one, with Digital Music Commerce and Exchange Limited (DMCE) playing a pivotal role. Under the leadership of General Manager Ezekiel Olayinka, DMCE worked tirelessly to reclaim and protect Dagrin’s musical catalog from years of exploitation and mismanagement.
Following his passing in April 2010, Dagrin’s intellectual property was scattered and largely unmanaged. DMCE stepped in, securing a letter of administration from the Lagos State Probate Registry and collaborating with the rapper’s family to ensure proper ownership and control over his work.
