When you hear those infectious beats behind hits like “Fine Lady” by Lynxxx featuring Wizkid or Timaya’s “Ukwu,” you’re experiencing the musical genius of Masterkraft. This Nigerian music producer has transformed from a struggling street hawker in Ajegunle to one of Africa’s most sought-after beatmakers, working with everyone from Banky W to international superstar Jason Derulo.
Quick Profile
| Real Name | Sunday Ginikachukwu Nweke |
| Date of Birth | 28th June 1987 |
| Place of Birth | Ajegunle, Lagos State |
| State of Origin | Enugu State |
| Occupation | Record Producer, DJ, Songwriter, Pianist |
| Net Worth | $2.5 million (2024) |
| Marital Status | Single |
| Record Label | Masterkraft Nation |
Biography
Sunday Ginikachukwu Nweke’s journey reads like a proper rags-to-riches tale. Born in the bustling streets of Ajegunle, Lagos, this future music mogul faced challenges that would break many spirits. Growing up in what he describes as “abject poverty,” young Sunday found solace in the one thing that cost nothing but meant everything – music.
Picture this: a brilliant lad who topped his entire local government area in the Common Entrance Examination, earning not one but two scholarships. Yet fate had other plans. His well-meaning but uneducated parents, not understanding what a scholarship meant, turned down this golden opportunity. Instead of heading to university to pursue his dream of becoming an accountant, Sunday found himself hawking sachet water, tissue paper, and groceries on Lagos streets.
At just 11 years old, while working as a houseboy to survive, Sunday discovered his calling through the piano keys at his local Cherubim and Seraphim church (fondly called the “white garment church”). Those Sunday services became his refuge, and the piano became his pathway to hope.
“The only thing that gave me joy was music,” Masterkraft recalls. “Playing music in church gave me hope when everything else seemed impossible.”
Career Breakthrough
Masterkraft’s professional journey kicked off in 2009 when destiny connected him with Kennis Music through a Star Quest-winning friend’s group. When Kenny Ogungbe heard the first two tracks Masterkraft produced, he knew he’d found something special. That handshake moment marked the beginning of a legendary career.
The real turning point came when M.I Abaga walked into a studio and heard a Masterkraft production. Absolutely gobsmacked by the quality, M.I immediately rang Banky W, raving about this new producer. When Banky W finally connected with Masterkraft (after a few missed calls and a text message), magic happened in under 30 minutes.
“Banky came, told me about a song he was working on, and in less than 30 minutes, I was done with the beat,” Masterkraft remembers. “He was so amazed that he promised my name would be everywhere.”
True to his word, Banky W sponsored Masterkraft’s first national newspaper feature, catapulting him into the spotlight. Soon after, he became the vocal coach for emerging EME stars including Wizkid and Skales.
Masterkraft’s signature “Masterkraft on the beat” has introduced some of Nigeria’s biggest anthems:
Chart-Topping Hits Include:
- “Fine Lady” – Lynxxx ft. Wizkid (2011)
- “Ukwu” – Timaya ft. Flavour (2013)
- “Kwarikwa (Remix)” – Flavour ft. Fally Ipupa (2010)
- “Girl” – Bracket ft. Wizkid (2013)
- “Jasi” – Banky W (2012)
- “Power to Win” – Flavour (Nigeria’s 2014 World Cup anthem)
International Recognition
His “Power to Win” production didn’t just dominate Nigerian airwaves – it crossed oceans to feature on American Idol Season 14’s soundtrack in 2015. The same year, Coke Studio Africa commissioned him as a guest producer, cementing his continental reputation.
Awards and Industry Recognition
The industry has consistently recognised Masterkraft’s exceptional talent:
Major Awards Won:
- City People Entertainment Awards 2015 – Music Producer of the Year
- Nigeria Entertainment Awards 2016 – Music Producer of the Year
Notable Nominations:
- The Headies 2015 – Producer of the Year (for “Wiser”)
- Nigeria Entertainment Awards 2013 – Music Producer of the Year
- The Beatz Awards 2023 – Producer of the Year (Male) and Afro Pop Producer of the Year
Industry Rankings:
- 8th on Leadership Newspaper’s Top 10 Music Producers in Nigeria (2014)
- 7th on Nigeria Entertainment Today’s Top 7 Biggest Music Producers (2015)
- Listed among Thisday’s Top 10 Music Producers in Nigeria
Current Ventures and Business Empire
Today, Masterkraft runs his own empire through Masterkraft Nation, nurturing the next generation of African musical talent. His influence extends beyond production into artist management and talent development.
Studio Albums:
- “Unlimited (The Tape)” (2017)
- “Masta Groove” (2021)
Record Label Affiliations:
- Iroking
- MK Records
- Universal Music (PTY) Ltd.
Net Worth
With production fees reportedly starting at ₦500,000 per track (roughly $1,200), Masterkraft has built substantial wealth from his craft. Multiple sources estimate his current net worth at approximately $2.5 million as of 2024, making him one of Nigeria’s wealthiest music producers.
His success stems from diverse revenue streams including:
- Music production and beat sales
- Artist management through Masterkraft Nation
- Live DJ performances
- International collaborations
- Royalties from global hit songs
Personal Life
Despite his public success, Masterkraft maintains a relatively private personal life. Currently single and focused on his career, he’s managed to keep romantic relationships away from media scrutiny. His journey from street hawker to millionaire producer serves as inspiration for countless young Nigerians pursuing their dreams against all odds.
Legacy and Impact on Afrobeats
Masterkraft’s influence on contemporary Nigerian music cannot be overstated. His ability to blend traditional African sounds with modern production techniques has helped shape the global Afrobeats movement. From coaching early Wizkid vocals to producing anthems that soundtrack African celebrations worldwide, his fingerprints are all over the continent’s musical evolution.
With collaborations spanning from Nigerian superstars to American A-listers like Jason Derulo, Masterkraft shows no signs of slowing down. His Masterkraft Nation label continues discovering and developing fresh talent, ensuring his influence on African music will resonate for generations to come.