Fola, the fast-rising Afrobeats sensation, has a backstory as compelling as his music.
Real name Folarin Odunlami, he was born April 26, 1999, in Lagos State. His journey to stardom was anything but smooth. After moving to Lagos in 2018 to pursue his music dreams, Fola’s first experience was harrowing; he was arrested on arrival and spent his first night in a police station. That moment almost made him abandon his dream, but he pressed on.
RECOMMENDED ARTICLE:
MUSIC REVIEW: Wizkid’s Son Makes Bold Entrance with Debut EP ‘Champion’s Arrival’
Before Lagos, Fola worked at a bakery in Ibadan, saving money to fund his music career. His determination saw him invest everything into a music video for his single “Ginger” in 2022, which he hoped would be his breakthrough. His resilience eventually paid off.
One of Fola’s most recognisable traits is his unique four-section hairstyle. Interestingly, it wasn’t planned. While preparing for his first official video shoot, his barber accidentally styled his hair without a mirror. Fola liked the result and has kept the look ever since, turning it into a personal signature.
READ ALSO: Top 10 Highest-Paid Dead Celebrities of 2025
Fola’s musical journey started in secondary school, but financial struggles forced him to pause in 2014. He resumed in 2019, slowly building his name in the industry.
Fola’s creative process is spontaneous; he draws inspiration from cooking, watching football, or simply being in the studio. He views music as a universal language that allows him to connect with people without meeting them physically.
However, Fola’s relationship with Bella Shmurda also played a role in his rise. Through studio visits and networking, he connected with Bella’s team and eventually signed with Dangbana Republik in October 2024. From a rough start in Lagos to a billion-stream artist, Fola’s journey is a testament to perseverance and raw talent.
