In Nigeria, Sola Allyson-Obaniyi is known for her soulful and spiritually uplifting music. Her distinctive fusion of folk, gospel, and soul has enthralled audiences. Allyson was born in Ikorodu, Lagos State, in the early 1970s. Her rise to fame as a musician is a result of her skill, commitment, and unshakable faith.

Early Life

After completing her elementary school at Ikorodu’s Anglican Primary School, Allyson went on to Shams-el-deen Grammar School in the same town for her secondary education. She pursued her studies at the Government Technical College in Agidingbi, Ikeja, where she obtained an NBTE Certificate in Business Studies. But the world of music was her true calling.

She started her official music studies at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, in 1997, with a voice concentration and a music technology minor. This time was crucial since Professor Oluwole Oladejo Adetiran, a key player in her musical development, provided her with priceless mentoring. Allyson successfully completed her Higher National Diploma (HND) with an Upper Credit, demonstrating her talent and perseverance.

Music Ministry

Allyson’s musical career started early in life. She was already performing as a backup vocalist as a teenager, which helped her hone her voice and get useful stage experience. She gained a solid foundation and priceless insights from this early exposure to the music business.

By working with well-known Nigerian musicians like Yinka Ayefele, Gbenga Adeboye, Pasuma, Obesere, and Daddy Showkey, she improved her abilities as a professional backing vocalist. She was exposed to a variety of musical styles, and her musical horizons were expanded by these experiences.

Her career’s pivotal moment came as a surprise. While riding a public bus, she met someone who gave her a screenplay for a movie. As a result of this fortuitous meeting, she became involved with the film project, which was originally called “Orekelewa.” A soundtrack was written and performed by Allyson for the movie, which later changed its title to “Eji Owuro.”

“Eji Owuro” was released, and it turned out to be a turning point. Acknowledging the outstanding quality of the soundtrack, the studio made the decision to create a full-length music album based on the soundtrack. When the album “Eji Owuro,” was released, it was a huge commercial and critical success. Allyson became well-known after this success, making her a budding star in the Nigerian music industry.

Allyson’s music combines complex melodies, profoundly spiritual themes, and soulful vocals in a distinctive way. Themes of love, religion, overcoming obstacles in life, and the resilience of the human spirit are frequently explored in her songs. Her music is multifaceted, skillfully fusing elements of gospel, soul, and folk to produce an enthralling and profoundly poignant sound.

Her repertoire includes a number of highly regarded albums, such as “Gbeje F’ori,” “Ire,” and “Im’oore,” all of which demonstrate her development as a performer and songwriter. Well-known songs like “Eji Owuro,” “Obinrin Ni Mi,” “Aseye,” and “Isinmi” have become anthems for many people and have a profound impact on audiences both inside and outside of Nigeria.

Allyson is more than just a musician. She is a well-known voice instructor who shares her skills and knowledge with budding vocalists. Numerous others have been inspired and mentored on their musical journeys by her dedication to developing budding talent.

She has also shown her versatility by branching out into other fields, such as consulting and counseling. She has gained the respect and confidence of people looking for direction and support because of her perceptive viewpoints and sympathetic demeanor.

Marital Status

Allyson’s life and music are greatly influenced by her beliefs. She is a devoted Christian who uses her faith as motivation to write music that is emotionally stirring and spiritually uplifting.

Allyson married her life and music partner, Toyin Obaniyi, in March 2003. With the blessing of three children—Ayobami, Mopelola, and Obafunmiwo—they have created a devoted family.

Albums

• Eji Owuro (2003)
• Gbe Je F’ori (2005)
• Ire (2007)
• Im’oore (2009)
• Adun (2012)
• Ope (2015)
• I muse (2018)
• Iri (2019)
• Isodotun (2021)
• IMISI(2022)

Extended plays

• ÌṢỌ̀ṢỌ́ (2023)
• IPIN (2024)