Fame has not changed me-NINIOLA

Niniola      Background

I am a singer and songwriter signed on with Drumroll Records. I am a native of Ilejemeje in Ekiti State, even though I was born and raised in Lagos State. I attended Apata Memorial Schools, Isolo and the University of Lagos, where I studied Biology Education.

I come from a very loving and caring home. My late dad was married to three women who love themselves and taught us to love each other. I really didn’t face challenges being raised in a polygamous home because my dad trained us on how to live as one family and that has helped us till date. My dad and mum unknowingly helped me choose my career path early in life. They had the best music collection I have ever come across. Growing up, I listened to my dad play almost all his records and I knew the lyrics of all the songs. He made me dance for him while he recorded with his camera. Family

 Music

I was the third runner-up in the MTN Project Fame Season 6 in 2013. Project Fame was a stepping-stone for me. It helped me hone my music skills. The hurdles prior to that time are experiences I’ll always cherish. My mum kicked against my doing music initially, but these days she is proud of me and supportive of  my career. I began my music career officially in 2014 when I released my first single, Ibadi.

 Achievements

Following the release of my breakthrough debut single, Ibadi, I was nominated in the “Most Promising Act to Watch” category at the 2015 Nigeria Entertainment Award. One of my singles, Gbowode, was one of the soundtracks in season two of the Nigerian television drama series, Gidi Up. I also created a new genre of music called Afro-House; it is a blend of Afrobeat and House music. I have worked with the Ugandan BET Award-winning artiste, Eddy Kenzo. I also featured in the remix of his hit single, MbiloMbilo.

 Inspiration 

I am inspired by the likes of Angelique Kidjo, Celine Dion, Beyonce and Dolly Parton, because they all stand for originality.

 Motivation

I owe my success to God who directs all that I do. I am motivated by God and the desire to be successful. I am a goal-getter and I never take no for an answer. I remember being turned down at the 2007 West African Idols audition and I didn’t feel bad. All I did was pick myself up, harness my skills and then, I gave the competition a second shot. I also finished third at the  X-Factor music reality show in 2013. I think my belief in my abilities and my doggedness is quite remarkable. My music is founded on these turbulent emotions and that makes for some incredible music.

 Fame

I still see myself as the same person I was before I became famous. Perhaps, the only difference may be that I now enjoy so much goodwill and love from everybody.

 Current projects

I am working on releasing new songs, new videos and my debut album.I am also busy with my scholarship foundation (Adopt-A-Child’s-Education), which I launched last year. Already,I have given two students full six-year scholarships.

 Challenges

I won’t say I have encountered any challenge aside from getting adequate financing for my projects. The Nigerian music industry is capital intensive and I only just realised this. I have been well received by everyone and I appreciate thisbecause it takes God to achieve this level of fame.

 Relationship with other artistes

I haven’t really come across a lot of artistes. However, I am friends with the few I have met. I have a lot of respect for Nigerian female artistes because it’s not easy being to be successful in the music and remaining  successful in it. Nigerian artistes are all making us proud.I like Yemi Alade,Tiwa Savage,Seyi Shay, Aramide, and basically every female act  that is doing well.

 Other interests

I love watching vampire-themed movies, cooking and chatting with my mum and friends. Recently, my team got me involved in watching soccer.

 Marriage

I am not married, but I’m in a relationship

 Style

I guess that should be anything classy and comfortable.

 Leisure

I relax by listening to music and dancing.