Nigeria's Bayanni was born Oladokun Abimbola Elijah in Alagbado- a bustling settlement between the borders of Lagos and Ogun state. He is the third of five children, and the son of a university bursar and a schoolteacher. He and his siblings were first introduced to music in church as a way to keep them from mischief, which first piqued his interest in crafting songs.
After rising through a series of early releases, Bayanni was signed to influential label Mavin Records after a life-changing DM from CEO Don Jazzy, and a subsequent stint and the prodigious Mavin academy. Less than a year since signing with Mavin, Bayanni had a wide-reaching cross-over song in 2022 with "Ta Ta Ta", featuring Jason Derulo on the remix. Bayanni doubled down on his sultry street-pop formula in 2024, releasing infectious, vibrant songs like "Finish Me", "Goddess" (ft. Ruger) and more.
Earlier this year, Bayanni returned with new four-track EP titled Love & Hustle, his first extended release since his self-titled debut. As its title suggests, Love & Hustle centers on the dual forces that often define young adulthood: the pursuit of meaningful relationships and the ongoing pressure to succeed. The EP blends these themes with Bayanni’s signature afropop sensibilities, expanding his sound without abandoning its core.
The opening track, "Princess Treatment", is a smooth, melodic ode to softness and care, continuing Bayanni’s focus on music that resonates with- and celebrates- feminine energy. The mood shifts with "Hustlers Anthem", a potent, enticing collaboration with Mavin Records founder Don Jazzy. It's a spirited track about ambition and resilience, offering a lyrical nod to the everyday realities of chasing dreams in an unforgiving world. The electrifying, uplifting bounce of "For Where?", with Zerrydl, close out the project with a vivid, powerful sound.
With Love & Hustle, Bayanni doesn’t so much reinvent himself as he sharpens the themes he’s already been exploring- balancing introspection with lively rhythms, and storytelling with sleek style. We sat down with Bayanni to discuss his early musical influences, journey with Mavin Records, his recent EP Love & Hustle, and more.
Can you tell us about your upbringing and what it was like growing up?
Growing up for me was bittersweet. I didn’t come from a rich background; I’d say I came from a vulnerable family. I’m the third of five boys, so I was always right in the middle of everything.
I grew up in a very musical household. Music was everywhere: piano sounds in the morning, church three times a week. That environment pulled me closer to music. By age six or seven, I was already learning instruments, and by 12 or 13, I could play about seven: drums, piano, violin, trumpet, saxophone, trombone, bass, and guitar. Later, at Deeper Life High School, I picked up even more.
At what point did you discover your love for music?
From a very young age. All my brothers had musical knowledge, but for me, it was different. I love the feeling of music . Music wasn’t just sound, it was food for the soul. It could heal, it could transform. That’s what made me fall in love with it.
When did you decide to pursue music professionally?
That happened around 20 or 21, when I was done with school. By then, I knew it was time to take music seriously, not just as something I loved, but as a career.
What role did your environment and background play in shaping your sound?
I grew up listening to almost every kind of music. That’s why my sound is so versatile. You can hear the streets, the struggle, love, R&B, and pop all fused together. I don’t stick to one direction or method. That mix is what makes my sound unique.
How did you first come across Mavin Records, and what was the journey like to joining the label?
I’d always known about Mavin Records. Don Jazzy has always been a legend. I had visions of joining the label even before it happened. Then in 2019, Don Jazzy sent me a message on Instagram. That was a huge milestone. From that moment till now, it has been a journey .
Let’s talk about your latest project, Love and Hustle. What inspired it?
Love and Hustle was inspired by Lagos. When I moved here in 2019 after Don Jazzy reached out, I began to see Lagos differently. Growing up, I wasn’t really “outside,” but now I was experiencing the real city, the love, the hustle. Lagos has both love and struggle, and I wanted to capture that duality.
It’s also a reflection of my adult life. Two things have been constant for me: love and hustle. After my debut EP, which introduced me as a versatile artist, this project became more personal.
Where do you usually draw inspiration for your songwriting?
Honestly, it comes from different places. Most times it’s my personal experiences, sometimes it’s a story I imagine, and other times it’s just random inspiration. I don’t have a set source. I don’t listen to someone else before recording. I just dig deep and create.
What’s your creative process like? Do you start with melodies, lyrics, or emotions?
It depends. Sometimes it starts with the beat, like “Ta Ta Ta” from my debut EP. Other times it begins with a melody, like my recent release Namipa. That melody just came to me, and I immediately called my producer so we could lock it in. There’s no fixed formula. It just flows differently each time.
Looking back, what challenges did you face while breaking into the industry, and how did you overcome them?
Most of my challenges were personal. I had to push myself, break mental barriers, and create something fresh that people hadn’t heard before. Thankfully, I’ve always had the support of my family and friends, so the biggest battles were internal.
What does it feel like being part of Mavin Records and releasing music on this scale?
It feels amazing. It reassures me that I’m on the right path, doing the right thing.
Who are some of your biggest influences?
Musically, my biggest influence is Michael Jackson. I grew up studying him: his voice, his moves, his stage presence. Watching him showed me how powerful music can be, how it can move people to the point of fainting.
On a personal level, I don’t have a human role model. Everyone is flawed. If I look up to anyone, it’s Jesus Christ.
How does Love and Hustle connect to your personal journey?
Moving to Lagos as an adult was eye-opening. I had to sort out rent, finances, and responsibilities while also navigating love and relationships. That’s where Love and Hustle comes from. It’s my life in music form.
What do you want listeners to take away from the project?
Just relate to it. Life is about balance, hustle is important, but so is love. At the end of the day, you need both, because life will life at the end of the day.
Outside of music, what keeps you grounded?
I’m a bit of a loner. I love movies, cooking, gaming, just simple things that keep me refreshed and balanced.
What’s next for you?
More music, more projects. Pop, soul, dance, feel-good sounds. I’m always working, so listeners should stay tuned.
