In a revealing episode of the Afrobeats Intelligence Podcast hosted by Joey Akan, Nigerian dancehall icon Inetimi Alfred Odon, popularly known as Timaya, took fans on a nostalgic journey through the early days of his career, recounting the modest yet pivotal deal that launched his debut album, True Story, and propelled him to stardom.
The Port Harcourt-born artist, now a veteran with nearly two decades in the Nigerian music industry, shared candid insights into the hustle, heartbreak, and triumphs that shaped his rise, offering a rare glimpse into the gritty realities of breaking into the Lagos music scene.
Timaya, often hailed as the “Egberi Papa 1 of Bayelsa,” revealed that his first album, True Story, released in 2007, was sold for a modest ₦500,000 to a marketer in Lagos’ bustling Alaba market, a hub for music distribution in Nigeria’s early 2000s music scene.
At the time, the sum was a lifeline for the then-up-and-coming artist, who was eager to break into the competitive Lagos market. “It was a big opportunity,” Timaya said, reflecting on his hunger for a breakthrough. “I was just coming up, and I needed that chance to get my music out there.” The deal, though modest by today’s standards, marked the beginning of a transformative chapter for the dancehall star.
Timaya’s reflections on the podcast highlight the evolution of Nigeria’s music industry, from the days of physical CD sales in Alaba market to today’s streaming-dominated landscape.
His journey mirrors the grit and hustle of an era when artists relied on grassroots distribution and word-of-mouth to break through. Yet, it also underscores his enduring relevance.
With a career spanning nearly two decades, Timaya has crafted a legacy built on unforgettable street anthems like “Ukwu,” “Bum Bum,” and “Cold Outside,” blending dancehall’s raw edge with highlife’s melodic charm and hip-hop’s swagger.
His influence extends beyond music, inspiring a new generation of artists like Patoranking and Runtown, who have cited him as a mentor.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
As Timaya continues to evolve, with recent releases like his 2024 album Gladiator earning critical acclaim, his reflections serve as both a celebration of his journey and a reminder of the hustle that defines Nigeria’s music industry.
ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM VERILY NEWS
