Diaspora Star | Lukman Olanrewaju Odunaike : Hackney’s Afroswing Prodigy Making Waves Worldwide
- Dec 29, 2025
- 2 min read
Lukman Olanrewaju Odunaike, popularly known as Not3s (pronounced “Notes”), is proving that Hackney, London, is a powerhouse of musical talent. The British-Nigerian artist, 27, has carved a niche in the global music scene with his unique blend of Afroswing, UK rap, R&B, and soul. His stage name, spelled with a ‘3’, symbolizes “money notes,” “music notes,” and a challenge to listeners: “take note of me.”
Not3s’ musical versatility defies pigeonholing. Seamlessly moving between rap verses and melodic hooks, he demonstrates lyrical finesse and vocal control that set him apart from contemporaries. He cites the late Long Beach legend Nate Dogg as a key influence, and that inspiration is evident in his smooth, memorable melodies.
His breakthrough came in 2016 with the viral hit Addison Lee, a playful homage to the London ride-sharing company that earned him a spot on the UK Singles Chart at Number 57. The song’s instant popularity made him a household name in London’s urban music scene and led to a live performance at Addison Lee’s Christmas party, cementing his rise from local talent to national recognition.
Following that, Not3s showcased his versatility with singles like Notice, Aladdin, and My Lover, the latter peaking at Number 17 on the UK charts. These tracks featured on his debut mixtape, Take Not3s, released in November 2017. He followed up eight months later with Take Not3s II, which included the hit Sit Back Down featuring Maleek Berry, further solidifying his place in the Afroswing and UK rap landscape.
Between 2019 and 2020, Not3s experienced both personal and professional turbulence. He spent time in Miami, Florida, navigating fatherhood and public challenges related to his first child. During this period, he released a handful of singles and featured on other artists’ projects, maintaining his presence in the music industry while balancing private life pressures.
In 2021, Not3s returned with renewed focus, teasing his debut studio album. 3 Th3 Album, released on August 27, 2021, marked a pivotal moment in his career, delivering a cohesive collection that showcased his growth as both a singer and songwriter. The project highlighted his ability to blend streetwise lyricism with accessible, melodic hooks.
Not3s’ appeal is not limited to the UK. His collaborations with international stars like Mabel (My Lover, Fine Line) and AJ Tracey (Butterflies) reflect a global reach, bridging African diaspora sounds with mainstream British music. He remains a figure that resonates with young diasporans, exemplifying ambition, cultural pride, and creativity.
Offstage, Not3s is grounded. A proud Hackney native and Manchester United supporter, he balances his rising international fame with a connection to his roots. For fans across the diaspora, Not3s embodies the possibilities of blending heritage, talent, and determination, a modern blueprint for success in a globalized music world.
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