From Okokomaiko to the World

The road to celebrity has been a long winding one for Akinbiyi Abiola, who broke onto the music scene with the Olamide-assisted ‘Vision 2020’.

Before then, he freestyled on beats and uploaded to the internet while studying to attain a degree in History and International Relations at the Lagos State University (LASU).

Noting his rise from humble beginnings, Bella, 24, prides himself as an ambassador for his community in the Okokomaiko area of Lagos State. This sense of self has continually fueled his ambitions.

“I don’t want to go back there (Okokomaiko) empty-handed. I want to go back as an ambassador, helping others in the community,” he said in a recent chat, adding that he has a lot to prove. This, in a way, explained the pace with which he released two EPs within a year.

For his current project, he embarked on a personal journey to ascertain the impact of his sounds on the music scene. On the EP, he explores themes on self-worth, mental health and fame.

Currently signed to OneWorld Records, Bella hopes to take the music industry by storm, especially considering that he has completed his university studies. Aside from his music career, the singer also revealed plans to expand his brand by exploring the entrepreneurial path.