Oladapo Olaitan Olaonipekun: A Biography of Dagrin

Introduction
Oladapo Olaitan Olaonipekun, popularly known as Dagrin (25 October 1984 – 22 April 2010), was a Nigerian rapper from Ogun State, Nigeria. His life story was depicted in the film Ghetto Dreamz, released in April 2011. Dagrin is celebrated for pioneering indigenous rap in Nigeria and is regarded as one of the greatest Nigerian rappers of all time.

Early Life
Olaonipekun resided in Meiran, Alagbado, Lagos State.

Career
He debuted with his studio album Still On The Matter in 2006-07. His sophomore album, C.E.O. (Chief Executive Omoita), was released in 2009. In 2010, Dagrin received nominations at the Nigerian Entertainment Awards for Best Album (C.E.O.), Hottest Single ("Pon Pon Pon"), Best Rap Act, and Best Collaboration with vocals. C.E.O. earned the Hip hop World Award for Best Rap Album in 2010, featuring hits like "Pon Pon Pon" and "Kondo". Dagrin collaborated with numerous Nigerian artists, including Y.Q, 9ice, M.I, Iceberg Slim, Omobaba, Terry G, Ms Chief, Owen G, K01, Code, MISTAR DOLLAR, TMD Entertainment, Omawumi, Chudy K, Bigiano, and Konga. His third studio album If I Die was released posthumously, with the title track becoming notable.

Legacy
Dagrin is acknowledged as a pioneer of dialect rap, blending Yoruba and Pidgin languages in his music. Nigerian journalist Idoko Salihu of Premium Times highlighted Dagrin's revolutionary impact on the Nigerian rap scene, noting his integration of English with his native dialect.

Following his death, M.I. released the tribute "End of Time". 'Nigerian All Stars', featuring Sheyman, Ruggedman, Banky W, Omawumi, Lord of Ajasa, Tony Tetuila, and others, released "My Pain" as a tribute. In 2011, rapper Olamide released "Tribute to Dagrin".

Artists such as Olamide, CDQ, Reminisce, Oladips, and YQ cite Dagrin as an influence on their careers.

Ghetto Dreamz
A film portraying his life, Ghetto Dreamz, starring Trybson Dudukoko and Doris Simeon-Ademinokan as his girlfriend, was released in April 2011.