What Dan Foster’s Rejection Did for Me – Niniola

Queen of Afro-House music, Niniola Apata has said that Dan Foster‘s rejection motivated her to succeed.

During a recent episode of #WithChude, the Maradona crooner discussed growing up in Nigeria, her family and career.

Before the glamour and glitz, Niniola was rejected when she went for West African Idols, by the late Nigerian-American media personality Dan Foster and Dede Mabiaku.

But the criticism of both judges inspired her and she jarred back into action. The singer’s persistence worked for her against all odds.

“When I heard about Dan Foster’s demise, it hurt me so much because I said I was going to look for him and hug him because his words were like sandpaper. They were rough but smoothened me,” Niniola said.

“Dede helped with my confidence and helped me realise and maintain that the voice is there. He said ‘You have it, don’t let anyone tell you don’t have it; all you can do is work on it, harness it’. I told myself after West African Idol that I was going to work on myself and be so good that no-one will be able to question my craft.”

Growing up in a polygamous with three mothers wasn’t easy for the singer but with hard work; she was able to stand tall.

“Hard work is very important, and it will never go in vain. Just be yourself, and the world will listen to you,” she added.

In contrast to the early wave of rejections from talent-show judges, Niniola released her debut single Ibadi in 2013. The song enjoyed massive airplay and she was nominated for Most Promising Act to Watch at the 2015 Nigeria Entertainment Awards.

Just recently, she won the female ‘Best Vocal Performance’ award at the 14th Headies awards.