Shake Body
Raoul John Njeng-Njeng aka Skales
Skales
Raoul John Njeng-Njeng, known professionally as Skales, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and rapper. He was born on April 1, 1991, in Kaduna State, Nigeria. His stage name, SKALES, is an acronym for “Seek Knowledge Acquire Large Entrepreneurial Skills.”
Skales developed an interest in music at an early age and began writing rap songs in 2000 while growing up in Kaduna. Between 2007 and 2008, he traveled to Jos, Plateau State, where he worked with notable musicians such as Jesse Jagz and Jeremiah Gyang, further developing his artistry and performance skills.
In 2008, Skales gained recognition after winning the North Central region of the Zain Tru Search competition. Around the same period, his debut single Must Shine received significant airplay on Rhythm FM stations in Lagos, Abuja, and Jos. His growing popularity eventually led to a recording contract with Empire Mates Entertainment (EME), where he worked alongside artists such as Banky W and Wizkid.
Following his departure from EME, Skales established himself as a solo artist with the release of his debut studio album Man of the Year in 2015. The album featured his breakout hit Shake Body, which became one of the most successful Afropop songs of the year. He later released projects including The Never Say Never Guy, Mr Love, and Sweet Distractions, producing songs such as Temper, Mukulu, and Kpakurukpa.
Known for his versatility and ability to blend Afropop, hip-hop, dancehall, and R&B influences, Skales remains one of Nigeria’s most enduring contemporary music artists.
