Willy Paul facts for kids

Wilson Abubakar Radido, known as Willy Paul, is a popular Kenyan musician and songwriter from Nairobi. He is the boss and founder of his own music company, Saldido International Entertainment.

Willy Paul became famous after releasing songs like "Rabuka" and "Sitolia" with his mentor, Gloria Muliro. He was named the best male artist at the 2013 Groove Awards. Some of his well-known songs include "I Do" with Alaine from Jamaica, "Njiwa" and "Hallelujah" with Nandy from Tanzania, and "Nobody" with Yemi Alade from Nigeria. His song "You Never Know" helped him gain recognition and even led to a tour in the United States.

Early Life

Wilson Abubakar Opondo Radido was born in September 1993 in the Mathare slums. His father was a carpenter, and his mother was a hairdresser. In 2011, Willy Paul had to leave school because his family faced money problems. He took on various odd jobs, sometimes called "Juakali" jobs, to help his mother earn money for their family.

Music Career

Willy Paul's first big song was "Rabuka." His career really took off in 2010. He later wrote "Sitolia" with Gloria Muliro. This song shared his life story, talking about his struggles and how he found new hope.

His first music album, You Never Know, was released on December 5, 2013. The launch event was held at the KICC and featured many other famous Kenyan artists. The album included popular songs like "You Never Know," "Lala Salama," and "Kitanzi."

In 2014, Willy Paul went on a music tour in the United States. He performed in churches across 12 different states. The tour started in California in March and ended in Las Vegas, Nevada, in April.

Willy Paul won several awards, including the Mdundo Awards for Most Downloaded Gospel Artist and Most Downloaded Male Single. This was for his song "Tam Tam," which he sang with Size 8. He also worked with hip-hop artist Khaligraph Jones on "Bora Uhai" and with Alaine on "I Do."

On April 30, 2024, Willy Paul released his third studio album, called "Beyond Gifted." This album has 14 songs and mixes different music styles like Afropop, Bongo Flava, and Dancehall.

Song Success

Willy Paul's song "Jigi Jigi" became very popular. It reached the number one spot on major music charts in Kenya. This included the Mdundo Weekly Top 100 and the Top 40 Singles Chart.

Helping Others

Willy Paul started a foundation in Kenya to help people in need. Through his foundation, he has helped children get access to basic education and healthcare.

Discography