ÀKÀNDÁ Breaks His Silence with “MELODIZA”: An Afro House Anthem Honoring a Fallen Friend and Reclaiming the Truth

“This isn’t just music. It’s memory, truth, and resistance—for everyone Nigeria has happened to.”

LAGOS, NIGERIA — ÀKÀNDÁ, the artist formerly known as Toby K, has returned with a new name, a renewed purpose, and a powerful message. His debut single under this rebrand, “MELODIZA,” is more than a song—it’s a soulful Afro House anthem that honours a friend’s memory while challenging false narratives and social injustice.

“MELODIZA” is dedicated to Alexander Ogunniyi, a vibrant physiotherapist, MC, actor, and beloved friend affectionately known as “The Mic Therapist.” Alexander tragically lost his life after being struck by a stray bullet in an incident that rocked the University of Benin Teaching Hospital. But the pain didn’t stop there—false online reports attempted to brand him a cultist, overshadowing his truth and tarnishing his legacy.

“Alex wasn’t in a gang. He wasn’t a thug. He was the kind of person who walked into a room and lit it up. He healed people—on stage and in real life,” ÀKÀNDÁ shares. “What they did to his name broke me. So I made this record for him—and for everyone Nigeria has happened to.”

With hypnotic drums, haunting melodies, and raw vulnerability, “MELODIZA” is both movement and mourning—a song that makes you dance while it makes you feel. It’s a blend of groove and grief, sound and storytelling.

The commendation service held in Alexander’s honour paints a true picture of who he really was: peaceful, passionate, and deeply loved. ÀKÀNDÁ’s release seeks to restore that narrative.

The name ÀKÀNDÁ, which means “one of a kind” in Yoruba, marks the artist’s personal rebirth—one forged through silence, introspection, and survival.

“This rebrand isn’t just a move. It’s survival. It’s purpose. It’s the beginning of the real me.”

With “MELODIZA,” ÀKÀNDÁ is not just creating music—he’s reclaiming stories, resisting erasure, and speaking for those silenced too soon. His art transcends borders, weaving words and rhythms into a new language of healing and truth.

“MELODIZA” is available now on all streaming platforms.