Fast-rising Nigerian singer Folarin Odunlami, better known as Fola, has opened up about his journey from financial struggle to fame, revealing how his life has changed dramatically since breaking into the music scene.
In a candid snippet from his upcoming Spotify Radar documentary, the “Alone” crooner reflected on the early days of his career when things didn’t go as planned despite his best efforts.
According to Fola, he once invested all his savings into a music project in 2022, hoping it would catapult him into the spotlight but the dream didn’t materialize immediately.
“Music matters so much to me because it’s an amazing thing that allows you to speak to and touch someone without even meeting them,” he said.
“In 2022, I can’t forget, I put all my money into a music project but I didn’t blow. Before, when I went to campus, people didn’t even recognise me. But just one year later, I can’t even enter school anymore because of fame.”
Fola’s turning point came in October 2024, when he was signed to Bella Shmurda’s record label, Dagbana Republik, a move that gave him the platform to showcase his talent to a wider audience.
His breakout single, “Alone,” became an instant hit, earning him critical praise and a growing fanbase. Since then, Fola has gone on to collaborate with Afrobeats heavyweights like Wizkid and Kizz Daniel, marking his steady rise in the industry.
Despite the fame and recognition, Fola remains grounded, describing his journey as one fueled by resilience, faith, and an undying passion for music.
“I stayed consistent even when things didn’t go as planned. Music is my life, and I’m just grateful that people are now connecting with my sound,” he added.
With his distinctive voice and heartfelt lyrics, Fola is proving to be one of the new generation acts redefining Afrobeats and his story is a testament to the power of perseverance and purpose.
