Ayodeji Akinde’s journey into the Afrobeats scene has been marked by resilience and determination. Hailing from Lagos, Nigeria, and the youngest of eight siblings, Ayodeji’s musical foundation was built early in life through his active participation in a Cherubim and Seraphim church.
Music was more than just a pastime . It was woven into his upbringing. From singing in the church choir to performing choreographed routines at events and playing the drums, Ayodeji developed a deep-rooted connection to music that would later shape his artistic path. Despite the hurdles along the way, it is through these struggles that his true artistic voice has emerged.
In 2016, Ayodeji Akinde relocated to the United States in pursuit of broader opportunities. It was during this time abroad that his passion for music deepened, transforming from a casual interest into a clear calling. Recognising that music was more than just a pastime, he made the bold decision to return to Nigeria and fully commit to his dream. “Music has always been in me,” he reflects. “It’s natural. The drive comes from within.”
Ayodeji Akinde dropped his debut single in 2018, marking a major milestone in his musical journey. He vividly remembers the thrill of stepping into a recording booth for the first time and hearing his voice played back — a powerful moment that affirmed his belief in both his talent and potential.
However, the road hasn’t been without its challenges. As an independent artist, Ayodeji quickly came to understand that creating music involves much more than just recording tracks. With no dedicated team, he found himself juggling every aspect of his career — from scheduling and logistics to promotion and planning.
One experience stands out: on the way to a video shoot, a flat tire left him stranded. With no crew to assist, he spent hours trying to reach the location while the director waited. The setback impacted the shoot’s quality and took a toll on him mentally and physically. “It made me realize how important having a team is,” he reflects. “Music can’t be done alone.”
Still, these setbacks have shaped him. They’ve instilled resilience and a strong work ethic. Today, Ayodeji is focused on building not just his music but also a team and structure to support his vision. His goal is to create music that inspires and motivates others, especially those navigating tough paths like his own.
“Dreams come true,” he says, confidently. “I want my story to show that with faith, focus, and hustle, anything is possible.” Through every challenge, Ayodeji is forging a place for himself in the world of Afrobeats, one step, one beat, and one breakthrough at a time.
