Ayodeji Akinde’s Journey of Passion, Persistence, Purpose

Born and raised in the bustling city of Lagos, Nigeria, Ayodeji Akinde is the last of eight siblings, the youngest in a vibrant, close-knit family. From an early age, music was more than just a background sound in his life; it was a way of being. Raised in a Cherubim and Seraphim (C&S) church, where spiritual expression through music is a deeply rooted tradition, Ayodeji was constantly immersed in a rich atmosphere of rhythm and worship.

He grew up singing in the choir, participating in choreographed church performances, and playing instruments like the drums. These early experiences laid a strong musical foundation and sparked a natural passion that would later define his life. In 2016, Ayodeji made a pivotal move to the United States in search of greater opportunities. Like many young Africans chasing dreams beyond their borders, he was fueled by a desire to succeed.

Yet it wasn’t until he was far from home that he truly began to understand his calling. “Now that I’ve found myself and my passion,” he says, “I’m back in Nigeria to continue chasing my dreams.” What began in the heart of a church had matured into a deep commitment to making music that matters. Two years later, in 2018, he released his debut single. It was his first time recording in a professional studio. The experience was exhilarating and deeply affirming.

Hearing his own voice over polished instrumentals for the first time made him believe in his potential even more. “It felt amazing,” he recalls. “And I knew I could only get better from there.” That first session wasn’t just about recording a song; it was about discovering a voice within himself that he was ready to share with the world.

Ayodeji’s musical style is rooted in Afrobeats, but his creative range expands far beyond it. He effortlessly blends elements of Afro-fusion, trap, and global rhythms, but no matter the genre, his Yoruba heritage outstrips. “Even when I experiment with different sounds, you can still hear my roots in the delivery, the rhythm, the energy,” he explains.

The storytelling tradition and vibrant culture of his people naturally seep into his music, giving it an authenticity that resonates across borders. His time in Lagos also instilled in him a powerful work ethic—a “hustle mentality,” as he calls it. Growing up in a city that demands resilience prepared him for the challenges that come with being an independent artist.

Without the support of a major label or a dedicated team in the early stages, Ayodeji had to handle almost every aspect of his career on his own. He recalls one particularly challenging moment: a video shoot that nearly didn’t happen. On the way to the set, he suffered a flat tire. With no assistant or crew to help, he spent hours trying to fix the issue while the director waited.

The delay affected the shoot’s quality, but it taught him an important lesson: no one makes it alone. “That day made me realize the value of having a team,” he reflects. “Since then, I’ve been focused on building not just a team, but an empire.” Ayodeji’s songwriting is drawn from a blend of imagination, manifestation, deep thought, and personal experience.

Sometimes his inspiration comes from his own life; other times, he channels emotions and ideas that feel larger than him. Typically, the process begins with a melody. “Once I hear the instrumental, I let the melody guide me,” he says. “The words come after.” Despite his calm and soft-spoken demeanor, Ayodeji’s music is full of energy and inspiration. It uplifts, motivates, and carries a vibe that his growing fanbase connects with.

His music video for “Smoke,” shot in Los Angeles, offers a glimpse of this duality, calm yet dynamic, grounded yet expressive. “I think my personality reflects in my music,” he adds. “There’s a unique spirit that people feel when they hear my sound.” Currently working on a new project, Ayodeji promises fans an explosion of creativity. “Expect nothing less than fireworks,” he says confidently. “Greatness is not ahead, it’s now.” For him, the journey is about manifesting success, staying authentic, and building a legacy.

Looking five years ahead, Ayodeji envisions himself among Africa’s musical greats. He dreams of collaborating with top artists and producers, contributing to the evolution of Afrobeats, and elevating African culture on the global stage. “I speak it into existence every day,” he says. “I’m meant to be one of the greatest to ever come out of Nigeria.” For Ayodeji Akinde, music is not just a career, it’s destiny. And his story is only just beginning.