Babatunde Olatunji
Renowned Nigerian drummer and educator who popularized African percussion worldwide.
IPA Pronunciation
oʊ.lɑːˈtun.dʒi
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Syllables
Olatunji is a Yoruba name from Nigeria meaning 'wealth or joy has woken or arisen.' It combines 'Ola' (wealth or honor) and 'Tunji' (has awoken). Traditionally, it signifies the arrival of prosperity or happiness with the birth of a child, reflecting cultural values of joy and abundance.
Cultural Significance of Olatunji
In Yoruba culture, names are deeply significant and often reflect circumstances around birth or aspirations. 'Olatunji' embodies hope, joy, and prosperity, typically given to a child born during a time of newfound wealth or happiness. It also reflects the Yoruba people's belief in the power of names to influence destiny and communal values.
Olatunji Name Popularity in 2025
Today, Olatunji remains a popular male name among Yoruba families worldwide, including diaspora communities in the UK, US, and beyond. It is often chosen to honor heritage and cultural pride. Increasingly, it is embraced in multicultural societies for its beautiful sound and positive meaning, with parents drawn to its blend of tradition and modern appeal.
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International Variations11
OlatundeOlatunjiiOlatunjiOlatunjiyeOlatunjiwoOlatunshaOlatunjiiroOlatunjireOlatunjobiOlatunbosunOlatungun
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Similar Names You Might Love11
Name Energy & Essence
The name Olatunji carries the essence of “Joy and wealth has awoken” from Yoruba (Nigerian) tradition. Names beginning with "O" often embody qualities of openness, originality, and spiritual depth.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
In Yoruba culture, names are deeply significant and often reflect circumstances around birth or aspirations. 'Olatunji' embodies hope, joy, and prosperity, typically given to a child born during a time of newfound wealth or happiness. It also reflects the Yoruba people's belief in the power of names to influence destiny and communal values.
Olatunji Akin Euba
Nigerian composer and musicologist known for blending African traditional music with Western classical.
Olatunji Bello
Nigerian public servant and politician influential in Lagos state governance.
Babatunde Olatunji
Musician
Olatunji Akin Euba
Composer and Academic
Olatunji Bello
Politician
Tosin Olatunji
Tech Entrepreneur
Olatunji Abiola
Business Executive
Olatunji Olaleye
Actor
Olatunji Adekunle
Educator
Olatunji Lawal
Journalist
The Drumbeat ()
Yoruba Nights ()
Legacy of Lagos ()
Rhythms of Africa ()
City of Drums ()
The Heir ()
Sounds of Home ()
African Dream ()
Parents: Jamie Foxx and Kristin Grannis
Olatunji
🌐Spanish
Olatunji
🌐French
Olatunji
🌐German
Olatunji
🌐Italian
オラトゥンジ
🌐Japanese
奥拉图恩吉
🌐Chinese
أولاتونجي
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Olatunji
The name Olatunji gained international recognition partly due to Babatunde Olatunji, a famous Nigerian drummer who introduced African drumming to global audiences in the mid-20th century.
Personality Traits for Olatunji
Individuals named Olatunji are often seen as joyful, optimistic, and charismatic. They tend to be natural leaders, exuding warmth and generosity. Their name suggests a personality that uplifts others, embraces opportunities, and values family and prosperity, often driven by a strong sense of cultural identity and purpose.
What does the name Olatunji mean?
Olatunji is a Yoruba (Nigerian) name meaning “Joy and wealth has awoken”. Olatunji is a Yoruba name from Nigeria meaning 'wealth or joy has woken or arisen.' It combines 'Ola' (wealth or honor) and 'Tunji' (has awoken). Traditionally, it signifies the arrival of prosperity or happiness with the birth of a child, reflecting cultural values of joy and abundance.
How do you pronounce Olatunji?
Olatunji is pronounced (IPA: oʊ.lɑːˈtun.dʒi). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Olatunji?
Popular nicknames for Olatunji include: Ola, Tunji, Tunj, OJ, Latu, Tun, Tuni, Laji, Tunjo, Oti, Tunji-Boy, OlaT.
Who are famous people named Olatunji?
Famous people named Olatunji include: , , , Babatunde Olatunji, Olatunji Akin Euba.
Which celebrities named their baby Olatunji?
Celebrity babies named Olatunji include children of: Jamie Foxx and Kristin Grannis.
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Olatunji is a beautiful Yoruba (Nigerian) name meaning “Joy and wealth has awoken”. Olatunji is a Yoruba name from Nigeria meaning 'wealth or joy has woken or arisen.' It combines 'Ola' (wealth or honor) and 'Tunji' (has awoken). Traditionally, it signifies the arrival of prosperity ...
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