My First Song Was Total Rubbish” — Zlatan Ibile Opens Up On Humble Beginnings After Failing Exams

Rapper and singer Zlatan Ibile has shared the story of how he ventured into music after failing to secure university admission due to poor grades in Mathematics and Accounting.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking with Nandi Madida on Apple Music 1, Zlatan revealed that his early struggles shaped his musical journey and inspired his new album, “Symbol of Hope.”

“I used to listen to music before I even knew I’d make mine,” he said. “Those artists were my symbols — people who rose from nothing to greatness. Now, people tell me my music gives them hope, and that’s why I named my album Symbol of Hope — to show that if I can do it, they can too.”

The Zanku crooner recounted how failing his exams became a blessing in disguise. “I was supposed to go to university in 2011 or 2012, but I didn’t have my complete papers. My dad was a pastor, and I played drums in church. When I failed, I started going to the studio with a friend. The first song I recorded was rubbish, but my siblings made me feel like Jay-Z that day,” he said.

Encouraged by his family, Zlatan kept recording until he won a local rap competition in his first university semester — a turning point that marked the beginning of his career.

He also spoke about creating his viral dance move, Zanku (Zlatan Abeg No Kill Us), saying, “That’s Africa to the world. I attached my name to it — you can’t mention Zanku without Zlatan.”