Biography & Career Of Timi Dakolo

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Biography & Career Of Timi Dakolo

Timi Dakolo, born Timiebi Donald Dakolo on January 20, 1981, in Accra, Ghana, is a celebrated Nigerian singer, songwriter, and music producer.

He gained national prominence after winning the first season of Idols West Africa in 2007, securing a record deal with Sony BMG. Raised in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, by his grandmother and aunt, he developed a passion for music early on, singing in church from the age of 12 and co-founding the group Purple Love.

Known for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, Timi has released several hit songs, including There’s a Cry (2011), and albums like Beautiful Noise (2011) and Merry Christmas, Darling (2019), which features collaborations with international stars like Emeli Sandé and Kenny G.

Beyond music, he is a vocal advocate for social issues. Timi is married to Busola Dakolo, and they share three children. His legacy continues to inspire the Nigerian music scene.

Early Life & Education

Timi Dakolo was born in Accra, Ghana, on January 20, 1981. He hails from Bayelsa State, Nigeria, and is of Ijaw descent, an ethnic group predominantly found in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria.

Timi is a Christian, and his faith has played a significant role in his life and music career, as he often credits his early exposure to church music as a foundation for his talent. He was born to a Nigerian father from Bayelsa State and a Ghanaian mother.

His father, David Dakolo, passed away when Timi was young, and his mother, Norah Dakolo, also died when he was 13 years old, leaving him orphaned at an early age. There is limited public information about Timi Dakolo‘s siblings. However, it is known that he grew up in a close-knit family environment despite the loss of his parents.

After the death of his parents, Timi was raised by his maternal grandmother, Ateni, and his aunt in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. His grandmother was pivotal in nurturing his musical talent, encouraging him to sing in church. Timi began singing at 12, performing in the church choir, which helped him develop his vocal skills and passion for music.

He co-founded a music group called Purple Love during his teenage years, further honing his craft. Growing up in Port Harcourt exposed him to a vibrant musical culture, influencing his soulful and Afrocentric sound.

Timi attended the University of Port Harcourt, where he studied communications. However, his primary focus remained on music, and he eventually pursued a professional career in the industry after winning Idols West Africa in 2007.

Career

Timi Dakolo’s music career soared after he won the inaugural season of Idols West Africa in 2007, a reality TV singing competition that brought him widespread recognition across the continent.

His victory landed him a recording contract with Sony BMG, marking the start of his professional journey in the music industry. Renowned for his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, Timi has become one of Nigeria’s most celebrated artists, seamlessly blending soul, R&B, and Afrocentric sounds in his music.

Following his Idols win, Timi released his debut single, There’s a Cry, in 2011, captivating audiences with its emotional depth and powerful vocals. That same year, he dropped his debut album, Beautiful Noise, which earned critical acclaim and established him as a formidable presence in the Nigerian music scene. The album featured a rich mix of soulful ballads and uplifting tracks, showcasing his versatility as both a singer and songwriter.

Over the years, Timi has continued to release hit singles like Iyawo Mi, Great Nation, and The Vow, which have become anthems celebrating love, unity, and patriotism. His music often explores themes of love, family, and social consciousness, earning him a dedicated fan base.

In 2019, he released his second album, Merry Christmas, Darling, a festive project featuring collaborations with international stars like Emeli Sandé, Kenny G, and the Eric Benét-led group The CompanY. The album was praised for its unique fusion of Christmas classics with Timi’s signature soulful style.

Timi Dakolo has also built a reputation as a captivating live performer, headlining concerts and gracing high-profile stages across Nigeria and beyond. His dynamic stage presence and remarkable vocal abilities have earned him numerous awards and nominations, including The Headies and the Nigerian Entertainment Awards accolades.

Beyond his music career, Timi has been a passionate advocate for social causes, using his platform to highlight issues such as education and youth empowerment. He has also ventured into music production, collaborating with other artists to create meaningful and impactful music.

Personal Life

Timi Dakolo was born on January 20, 1981, making him 44 years today. He is married to Busola Dakolo (née Amupitan), a professional photographer.

The couple met at a church in Lagos and have been together for over a decade. They often share their love story as an inspiration to many. They tied the knot on March 31, 2012, in a beautiful ceremony in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria.

Their marriage has been widely admired for its strength and resilience, with Timi and Busola frequently expressing their deep commitment to each other. Together, they have three children—two daughters, Zoe Dakolo and Hallel Dakolo, and a son, Alex Dakolo. The Dakolo family is known for its strong bond, often sharing heartwarming moments on social media.

While Timi Dakolo’s exact height is not officially documented, he is estimated to be around 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall based on public appearances.

Net Worth

Timi Dakolo‘s net worth is estimated to be around $2 million as of recent reports. His wealth primarily derives from his successful music career, including album sales, live performances, and endorsement deals with brands like Airtel.

Additionally, his earnings are boosted by private performances at high-profile events and his work as a music producer. While not among the wealthiest in the Nigerian entertainment industry, Timi‘s focus on quality music and meaningful content has earned him financial stability and a respected reputation.

Discography

Albums

Beautiful Noise (2011)

His debut album, featuring a mix of soulful ballads and uplifting tracks.

Merry Christmas, Darling (2019)

A holiday-themed album with collaborations featuring artists like Emeli Sandé, Kenny G, and The CompanY.

The Chorus Leader (2024)

His most recent album, blending R&B, Afrobeat, and soulful sounds, showcasing his vocal prowess and storytelling.

Notable Singles

There’s a Cry (2011)

Iyawo Mi (2014)

Great Nation (2012)

The Vow (2015)

Wish Me Well (2015)

I Never Know Say (2018)

Everything (Amen) (2021)

Obim (2023)

Collaborations

Heaven Please (2007) featuring M.I. Abaga

Take (2015) featuring Olamide

Merry Christmas, Darling (2019) featuring Emeli Sandé

White Christmas (2019) featuring Eric Benét