Skales Biography: Age, Family, and Career Comeback
When conversations start around artists who have survived different eras of Nigerian music, one name that quietly keeps appearing is Skales. His journey is not the typical overnight success story people often imagine when they think about Afrobeats stars. Instead, it is a long road filled with struggle, persistence, setbacks, and moments where giving up would have been the easy choice.
From growing up in deep poverty in Kaduna to eventually performing his hit records on international stages, Skales built his career step by step. His story carries lessons about patience, independence, and the realities behind the music industry.
Many fans know him for popular songs like Shake Body, but the full picture of his life goes far beyond a single hit record. His background, family struggles, education, label battles, and personal controversies all shaped the artist people see today.
Early Life and Background
Skales was born as Raoul John Njeng-Njeng in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Although he was born in the northern part of the country, his family roots trace back to Edo State.
His childhood was far from comfortable. Skales was raised by his mother, Martina, in a single-parent household. Life during those early years was extremely difficult. They lived in a small hut and often slept on mats on the floor.
His mother struggled to survive by doing different small jobs. At one point she operated a small cassette store, which later became an unexpected turning point in Skales’ life. Being surrounded by tapes and music recordings exposed him to different sounds and artists while he was still very young.
That small environment quietly planted the seed that would eventually grow into a music career.
Another major part of his childhood story is the absence of his father. His father, who is originally from Cameroon, left the family early in his life. Skales has openly stated in interviews that he never truly knew his father and does not even remember what he looks like.
Because of that reality, his mother became the most important influence in his life.
Education and Early Interest in Music
Skales started writing rap lyrics at a very young age. Around the early 2000s, he began experimenting with music seriously, recording freestyle verses and performing at small events.
Later, he moved to Jos for university education where he studied at the University of Jos. While in Jos, he met two important musicians who would influence his artistic direction: Jesse Jagz and Jeremiah Gyang.
That period exposed him to professional music production and helped him understand how the industry works.
During those early days he also participated in the Zain Tru Search competition, a talent discovery contest in Nigeria. Winning the North Central region of that competition gave him one of his first real opportunities in music.
He later completed his higher education at Lead City University where he studied Office Management and Technology.
Music Career and Breakthrough
Skales’ professional career took a big step forward when he joined Empire Mates Entertainment, the music label founded by Banky W.
The label also had major artists like Wizkid, and it quickly became one of the most influential music groups in Nigeria during that era.
While signed to EME, Skales released songs that started gaining attention, including:
- Must Shine
- Mukulu
- Keresimesi
Although these songs built his reputation, his real breakthrough came after he left the label.
In 2014, Skales released the single Shake Body, which quickly became a major club hit across Nigeria and other countries. The song introduced him to a wider audience and cemented his place in the Afrobeats scene.
Following the success of the record, he launched his own independent label called OHK Music, giving him full control over his music career.
Albums and Music Projects
Over the years, Skales released several albums and EPs that reflect different stages of his career.
His major albums include:
- Man of the Year
- The Never Say Never Guy
- Mr Love
- Sweet Distractions
- Martina’s Son
The album Martina’s Son carried deep emotional meaning because it was dedicated to his late mother. The project focused heavily on personal experiences, grief, gratitude, and the struggles that shaped his journey.
The emotional storytelling in that album resonated with many listeners who had followed his life story for years.
Family Life, Wife and Daughter
Family has always been a sensitive part of Skales’ story.
His mother Martina played a huge role in his life until her death. Before she passed away, Skales fulfilled one of his biggest promises by buying her a house. That achievement remained one of the proudest moments of his career.
In his personal life, Skales married Precious Hassanity, a model, after announcing their engagement publicly.
However, the relationship later attracted public attention due to a serious online conflict. During a difficult moment when his mother was ill, Skales accused his wife on social media of not supporting him.
The situation escalated into a public dispute that included emotional posts and even a diss track.
Months later, he publicly apologized and the couple reconciled for a period of time.
They welcomed their daughter in 2023, and despite relationship complications, both parents continue to be involved in raising the child.
Net Worth, Income Sources and Business
Like many mid-tier Afrobeats artists, Skales’ exact wealth has never been officially confirmed through verified financial documents.
However, entertainment industry estimates generally place his net worth between $2 million and $5 million.
His income mainly comes from:
- Music streaming revenue
- Concert performances
- Songwriting royalties
- His independent label OHK Music
Unlike some top artists, Skales is not widely known for major brand endorsement deals.
He lives in Lagos and owns property from his career earnings. He also previously purchased a house for his mother.
Controversies and Public Issues
Throughout his career, Skales has faced several controversies.
One of the earliest incidents happened during a car accident on the Lekki-Epe Expressway. The accident involved multiple victims and became widely reported in the media.
Another major issue occurred during his exit from Empire Mates Entertainment, where financial disagreements between the label and the artist became public.
The most widely discussed controversy in recent years was the public dispute involving his marriage, which generated heavy attention across social media platforms.
Despite these issues, Skales has remained active in music.
Career Comeback and Viral Resurgence
Years after the initial success of Shake Body, the song experienced a surprising global resurgence.
The track started trending again across social media platforms through dance challenges and international remixes.
It also gained unexpected attention when football players associated with FC Barcelona celebrated with the song during a major victory.
That moment introduced the record to a new generation of listeners across different countries.
Streaming numbers increased significantly, and Skales’ monthly listeners on music platforms doubled within a short period.
Combined with the emotional impact of the Martina’s Son album, this resurgence helped bring his name back into major music discussions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Skales?
Skales was born on April 1, 1991.
What does the name Skales mean?
The name stands for Seek Knowledge Acquire Large Entrepreneurial Skills.
Where is Skales from?
He was born in Kaduna State but has family roots in Edo State.
Who is Skales’ wife?
He married Precious Hassanity, though their relationship has experienced public challenges.
Does Skales have children?
Yes. He has a daughter born in 2023.
What is Skales’ biggest song?
Shake Body remains his most widely recognized hit.
