Timaya

Inetimi Alfred Odon, better known by his stage name Timaya, hails from Sampou in Bayelsa State. Born on November 29, 1977, this Nigerian artist carved a unique path by fusing local pop sensibilities with the high-energy beats of dancehall, hip-hop, and soca. His sound often reflects an Afro-Caribbean influence that set him apart in the early 2000s music scene. Beyond performing, he established DM (Dem Mama) Records Limited to manage his creative output and support emerging talent. Timaya launched his solo career in 2005 with the single "Dem Mama," a track addressing the tragic Odi massacre that quickly gained traction. The following year, he dropped his debut album True Story, which solidified his presence in the industry. He continued to build momentum with his second studio effort, Gift and Grace, released in 2008. His third project, De Rebirth, arrived as a collaboration with Black Body Entertainment and featured the hit song "Plantain Boy." Later, he worked with his group Dem Mama Soldiers to release the album LLNP (Long Life N Prosperity) in 2011. In 2012, he followed up with the project Upgrade. These releases helped him secure four Headies Awards, two AFRIMMA Awards, one Nigeria Music Award, and one NEA Award throughout his career.[edit]