At just 23, Babatunde Salako better known as FarrdaT is rewriting the rulebook for success in both music and tech. Born in Nigeria and driven by a passion for sound and software, his rise has been anything but ordinary.
FarrdaT’s journey began at the age of 13, when he brought his laptop to school to record and mix music during lunch breaks. “That early hustle taught me how to create with limited resources,” he says. “It sparked the drive that still fuels my career today.” That spirit of creativity would become his superpower.
Inspired by Legends, Driven by Passion
Even in his teenage years, FarrdaT had a clear vision. He drew inspiration from artists like Wizkid, Burna Boy, Chris Brown, and Mindless Behavior stars who blurred genre lines and connected with audiences around the world. Their music and bold presence showed him that he could dream bigger than his environment.
These influences helped shape FarrdaT’s sound: a unique fusion of Afrobeats and modern textures, always authentic, always evolving.
Building a Business From a Bedroom Studio
In 2019, FarrdaT turned his passion into a business, launching his mixing and production brand straight from his bedroom. Since then, he has generated over 250,000 pounds in revenue, helping countless independent artists find their sound and grow their reach.
Today, that same brand has grown into a 1 million pound enterprise, delivering high-quality production that fuels the careers of musicians racking up millions of streams globally.
Making His Mark as an Artist
FarrdaT isn’t just helping others shine he’s building his own spotlight too. In 2023, he dropped Diamonds, a self-produced single that gained over 200,000 streams worldwide. The track introduced listeners to his sound bold, raw, and full of emotional layers.
Soon after, Undercover earned him a career-defining win. It was named BBC Radio’s Record of the Week by DJ Abbie McCarthy. That moment was a major milestone, validating his years of behind-the-scenes hustle.
“That moment showed me I’m on the right path,” he says. “It proved my sound could travel and connect with people globally.”
Balancing Education and Creative Hustle
While in college, FarrdaT faced a familiar challenge balancing education with his growing career. With limited time and resources, he used every spare moment between classes to record, mix, and learn.
“The biggest challenges were time, money, and focus,” he shares. “But they taught me resilience and how to be resourceful under pressure.”
His college years weren’t just about earning grades they were about building grit.
Creative Mindset Meets Tech-Savvy Hustle
FarrdaT’s growth isn’t limited to the music scene. On AirGigs, he has collaborated with clients in both music and graphic design, generating five figures in revenue through freelance services alone.
By blending creativity with technology, FarrdaT is creating a new model of what it means to be a modern artist one who understands business, branding, and digital tools just as well as beats and lyrics.
The Power of Consistency and Adaptability
In an ever-changing industry, FarrdaT has one core belief consistency and adaptability are everything.
“The music industry constantly evolves,” he says. “So staying dedicated while embracing change has helped me deliver work that stands out.”
He’s built a strong online presence across platforms like TikTok and Instagram, sharing snippets of his process and connecting with fans on a personal level. His engaging, behind-the-scenes content offers a real glimpse into the life of a rising artist, and his numbers are growing fast.
A Bigger Vision: Music and Legacy
While many chase trends, FarrdaT is focused on legacy. His long-term goal is to elevate African music globally and inspire the next generation of creatives.
“I want to be remembered as someone who pushed boundaries, stayed real, and helped shape the sound of a generation,” he says.
That means making bold music. That means building a company that lasts. And that means mentoring young creatives who might also be producing tracks on lunch breaks with nothing but a laptop and a dream.
Advice to Young Creators
FarrdaT has some words for his younger self and for anyone chasing something big:
“Trust the process. Be patient. Success doesn’t happen overnight. Stay curious, keep learning, and never be afraid to take risks. Most of all, believe in your unique sound, even when others don’t.”
It’s more than advice. It’s the blueprint he’s followed and it’s clearly working.
Do follow him on Instagram
Read More: 5 Bears Named to 2025 Conference USA Preseason Watch List
