When we make a list of all the hype men in the industry today, with all due respect, some of the names mentioned often perform like they learned the robes of the game on the job. But when you watch Kunle Oshodi Glover popularly known as Shody alias The Turn Up King performances, it’s always like he was born to do the job. Nutty as a fruitcake, Shody never comes out as predictable. His energy level and synergy with the audience is second to none.

Words by Sesan Adeniji

Like a child at the playground for the first time, this lad always enjoys himself to the fullest every time he’s on the stage. As one of the very few Hypeman that also doubles as a performing artist, Shody has three recorded songs credited to his name. Like Tony Stark in the Avengers movie, Shody is very inventive and always ready to do something new to wow his audience. Undisputedly, he’s among the most unique in the industry. He’s a joy to watch perform.

With an interesting ride to the top of his career, Shody always put in a shift. “I started as a radio producer/presenter and a voice-over artist. While at the university, I was privileged to hype some events even though they were not a major event. The first club I did a hype job was at Red Lounge. From the little work I did there, I got calls to come hype event for some brands. That was the take-off point in my career. Now, I’m on the world stage doing what I love doing best” -Shody

Shody is a true entertainer. “My energy and crowd control is second to none. My ability to read the crowd and give them what they want is what makes me special. A lot of people are shocked at the fact that I am a big tall guy that dances so well and moves his body like a tiny guy. Also, my background as a voice-over artist gives me a golden edge. The second you hear my voice; you know it’s me. I take my craft very seriously. I am very passionate about what I do” – Shody

Shody has an interesting perception of the evolution of hype men is noteworthy. According to him, “Hype men being backup for artists have been there for ages and will continue to be there but I have found a way to carve a niche for myself and stand out. A lot of brands have now seen the need for a hypeman who can engage the crowd and keep the energy going from start to finish especially at concerts, birthdays, wedding after-parties, product launches, etc.

Today, hype men have evolved into an informal Mc. They now have a seat at the table. You have deejays, comedians, comperes and now hype men. And I am glad to be at the forefront of the evolution. In the last couple of years, I have grown in the business and I am becoming better each day on the stage. My dream is to look back someday and be able to say to myself, we created a multi-million dollar thriving industry. I am very proud of every hype man in the industry today” – Shody