FOLA features on Spotify’s RADAR Africa mini documentary, celebrated as an electrifying new talent in the Afrobeats scene that audiences should keep on their watch.
The 24-year-old Nigerian showcases a unique blend of Afro-pop, soul, and R&B on his deeply personal debut album, Catharsis. His career path, from initial doubt to recognition by a global platform exemplifies the vibrant musical innovation emerging from the continent.
Reflecting during the chat at Spotify’s recent Greasy Tunes Café in Lagos, FOLA shared, “if I wasn’t making music, I’d probably be on a football pitch or walking the runway.” Yet, his artistic identity is firmly anchored in Afro-pop and soul, capturing both the lively energy of Lagos and a raw emotional sincerity.
In the documentary, FOLA speaks candidly about the challenges of his early career, financial limitations, self-doubt, and the worry that his music might never gain traction. A significant turning point came in 2022 when he released Ginger Me with Bella Shmurda, a move that marked the start of his upward trajectory.
“FOLA embodies the next wave of African artistry, bold, soulful, and emotionally honest. His music captures the essence of what RADAR Africa stands for: spotlighting voices that are shaping the future of sound authentically from the continent to the world,” says Phiona Okumu, Head of Music, Spotify Sub-Saharan Africa.
His 2024 breakout single alone, featuring Bhadboi OML, established FOLA as one of Afrobeats’ most compelling soulful artists. With its laid-back percussion and vulnerable lyrics, the track struck a chord with listeners who, in his words, are “people in touch with their emotions.”
Through his debut album Catharsis, FOLA invites listeners into a thoughtful exploration of love, hardship, and renewal.
He represents a new generation of creators who value genuine emotion over commercial formulas, showing that the music emerging from Lagos continues to resonate across the globe. As he expressed at the Greasy Tunes Café, “The love from my fans keeps me going. I don’t take it for granted. My goal is simple: take Afrobeats to the next level.”
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