Stephen Nana, popularly known as Stevenator and former manager of Afrobeats star Asake, has shed light on the real reason behind his decision to step away from managing the fast-rising artist.
In a candid interview making rounds on social media, Stevenator—who managed Asake between 2022 and 2024—explained that the singer’s rapid rise to stardom became overwhelming, especially for someone new to the management scene.
Recounting how he got involved, he said it all began with a call from YBNL boss Olamide, who asked him to take on the responsibility.
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“Olamide called me one day and told me that he had an artiste he would want me to manage. And that was the first time I’m going into management. I don’t know anything about the job. I have been friends with Olamide for over 20 years,” he said.
Stevenator admitted that prior to that moment, he had never even heard of Asake. Yet, the singer’s rise was so explosive that it left no room for him to learn on the go. “Asake blew up so quickly that there was no time to learn the job, so it was back to back,” he added.
Beyond professional challenges, Stevenator revealed that personal reasons also influenced his decision to walk away. Juggling life on the road with family responsibilities became increasingly difficult. “The challenge was my family. At a time I had two sons and I did not have time to spend with them. I’m a family guy, I have not been able to be there for my family but still then I still have to make money so they can live a better life,” he explained.
He shared a touching moment that ultimately pushed him to reconsider his priorities: “Sometimes we are on the road for four to five months. I’m always on my phone with my kids. So I asked them to come to London and my second son refused me to carry him because he doesn’t know me.”
Balancing fame and family proved too demanding, prompting him to step down and focus on his personal life. “Asake became way too big that I have to be following him everywhere he goes. So, I’m now a family man, and I love my wife,” he concluded.
Stevenator’s revelation highlights the intense pressure behind the scenes in the entertainment industry and the tough decisions that come with managing breakout stars.

