Fast-rising Nigerian singer Fola has reflected on his remarkable rise to fame, revealing how life has changed since leaving his former job as a Bet9ja cashier in Ibadan to pursue music full-time.
Speaking during an appearance on the Tea With Tay podcast, the singer described his journey as nothing short of life-changing. He recalled returning to Ibadan a few months after his breakthrough and being overwhelmed by the love and support he received from people who once knew him only as a betting shop attendant.
Fola explained that his passion for music began long before the spotlight found him. As a secondary school student, he was inspired by a classmate who attracted attention through music, prompting him to experiment with writing and performing. What started as youthful curiosity soon turned into a genuine passion after he received an encouraging response from classmates and teachers.
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Music, according to the singer, was already woven into his family life. Growing up in a home where singing was a regular part of morning devotions helped shape his confidence and strengthened his love for performing from an early age.
The singer also revealed that his career could have taken a different path after Bella Shmurda, founder of Dagbana Republik, introduced him to Kizz Daniel during discussions about a possible record deal. While the meeting almost resulted in him signing with the award-winning star, the arrangement ultimately did not materialise.
Despite the fast pace of the music industry, Fola said he has developed a mindset that keeps him grounded. Rather than measuring his progress against other artists, he chooses to focus on his own journey, believing that self-confidence has been key to navigating the pressures that come with success.
He credited much of that confidence to his family, particularly his mother, who constantly encouraged him to believe he was destined for greatness. Their unwavering support, including his father’s appreciation of his music, gave him the motivation to keep chasing his dreams even before the recognition arrived.
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When success finally came, Fola said one of his first major investments was dedicated to his mother. He purchased a piece of land for her in Ibadan, where she later established a church, describing it as one of the most meaningful ways he could give back to the woman who always believed in him.
Away from music, the singer briefly shared his views on relationships, revealing that he finds excessive talking to be one of the biggest red flags when it comes to choosing a partner.
From working behind the counter at a betting outlet to becoming one of Nigeria’s fastest-rising music talents, Fola’s story is one of persistence, family support and unwavering belief in his dreams.