FOLA, born Folarin Odunlami, is a fast-rising Nigerian singer-songwriter making a mark in the Afrobeats scene.

With over six years of honing his craft, he made his industry debut in 2022 with Ginger Me, featuring Bella Shmurda, who later signed him to Dangbana Republik.

His breakthrough came with Alone, a collaboration with BhadBoi OML, where his smooth vocals and emotional depth propelled the song to the top of the TurnTable Charts.

In 2024, FOLA released his debut EP, What A Feeling, which quickly climbed to No. 5 on Apple Music Nigeria’s Top Albums chart within hours, solidifying his reputation as a rising star blending Afrobeat rhythms with soulful melodies.

Early Life & Education

Folarin Odunlami, widely known as FOLA, is a Nigerian singer-songwriter who is celebrated for contributing to the Afrobeats genre. He was born on April 26, 2000, in Lagos State, Nigeria, to Mr. and Mrs. Odunlami.

Raised in a Christian household, FOLA grew up alongside siblings whose names he keeps private, maintaining a low profile about his family life.

FOLA is of Yoruba ethnicity, one of Nigeria’s major ethnic groups, known for its rich cultural traditions and significant influence on music and the arts.

His birthplace, Lagos State, a bustling economic and cultural hub, likely shaped his musical sensibilities, exposing him to a dynamic blend of sounds and influences from an early age.

While specifics about his formal education remain undisclosed, FOLA dedicated six years to developing his musical talents before his professional debut. This self-directed or informal training period underscores his commitment to his craft, which shone through in his first single, “Ginger Me,” released in 2022.

Career

Folarin Odunlami, known professionally as FOLA, is a rising force in the Nigerian music industry, making his mark as a singer-songwriter in the Afrobeats scene.

After six years of refining his craft, he officially debuted in 2022 with Ginger Me, featuring Bella Shmurda. The track gained significant traction, catching the attention of industry insiders and leading to his signing with Bella Shmurda’s label, Dangbana Republik—a pivotal step in his career.

FOLA’s momentum continued with his breakout hit Alone, featuring BhadBoi OML. His smooth vocals and emotional depth captivated listeners, and the song soared to the top of the TurnTable Charts, solidifying his reputation as a fresh and compelling voice in Afrobeats. His signature blend of Afrobeat rhythms and soulful melodies further endeared him to a growing fanbase.

In 2024, he took a major leap forward with his debut EP, What A Feeling, which debuted at No. 5 on Apple Music Nigeria’s Top Albums chart within hours of release. The project showcased his versatility and reinforced his status as an artist to watch in the evolving Afrobeats landscape.

Rooted in his Nigerian heritage, particularly his Yoruba background and Lagos upbringing, FOLA’s music reflects a deep cultural connection while pushing the boundaries of contemporary Afrobeats. With a blend of talent, strategic collaborations, and a distinct sound, he continues to carve a promising path in the industry.

Personal Life

Folarin Odunlami, known as FOLA, is a Nigerian Afrobeats singer-songwriter born on April 26, 2000, making him 24 years old.

FOLA is not married and has no girlfriend. He lives in Bella Shmurda apartment in Lekki, Lagos State and has his cars too.

Net Worth

Folarin Odunlami, professionally known as FOLA, is a Nigerian Afrobeats singer with an estimated net worth of $150,000.

This figure reflects his earnings from music sales, streaming platforms, and live performances, driven by successful releases like his debut single “Ginger Me” (2022), the chart-topping “Alone,” and his debut EP, What A Feeling (2024).

As an emerging artist signed to Dangbana Republik, FOLA’s net worth underscores his growing influence in the Nigerian music scene, which has the potential to increase further as his career progresses.