Niniola


Niniola Apata, known professionally as Niniola, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter. She participated in the sixth season of Project Fame West Africa in 2013. After releasing her debut single "Ibadi", she was nominated for Most Promising Act to Watch at the 2015 Nigeria Entertainment Awards.

Early life and education

Niniola was born and raised in Lagos State. She attained her primary and secondary school education at Apata Memorial High School. Moreover, she earned a bachelor of education certificate from the University of Lagos.

Career

Niniola participated in several social activities and competitions while attending secondary school. She finished third runner-up in the sixth season of Project Fame West Africa. During the competition, she performed a live rendition of "Limpopo" with Kcee and her Cobhams Asuquo-produced track "Itura". She has cited Dolly Parton, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, The Cranberries, Madonna, Beyoncé and Angélique Kidjo as her key musical influences.
Niniola released her debut single "Ibadi" on 19 March 2014. Produced by Sarz, the song received positive critical reviews, topped national music charts and gained extensive airplay. Her singles "Ibadi" and "Gbowode" were included in the soundtrack for season 2 of Gidi Up. NotJustOk included her on its list of the 15 Artists to Watch in 2015. Niniola was nominated in the Most Promising Act to Watch category at the 2015 Nigeria Entertainment Awards.
Niniola released the Sarz-produced single "Maradona" in 2017. The song spent 13 weeks on South Africa's Metro FM chart, retaining the number 1 position for 6 weeks.
Niniola earned nominations at the 2018 BET Awards and SAMAs for "Maradona". She received nods from Canadian rapper Drake and American record producer Timbaland.
In 2019, elements of "Maradona" were sampled in "Find Your Way Back", a song from Beyoncé's soundtrack album . Niniola is also credited as one of the track's songwriters and composers. In April 2020, she received her Grammy nomination certificate for her work as a composer on The Lion King: The Gift.

Artistry

Niniola describes her style of music as Afro-house, a blend of Afrobeat and house music.

Personal life

Niniola is the older sister of singer Teni.

Discography