Award-winning singer Niniola Apata has opened up about her decade-long journey as an independent artist, revealing why she turned down numerous record label offers to stay true to her sound.
In a recent interview with Hip TV, the All Eyes On Me crooner stated that her decision was driven by a strong desire to maintain her artistic freedom, particularly in her signature genre—Afrohouse, a vibrant fusion of African rhythms, house beats, and her own creative flair.
“I have been an independent artist for 10 years now, and it has its pros and cons,” Niniola shared. “After I released my debut single Ibadi in 2014, several record labels reached out, but I was skeptical because I didn’t want anyone to take away my creative freedom.”
She explained that at the time, mainstream labels didn’t widely embrace Afrohouse, and she worried that signing a deal would pressure her into conforming to commercial trends.
Instead, she partnered with her former manager to launch their own label, allowing her to chart her own course in the industry.
“Even over the years, some deals have come, but I haven’t been comfortable with them,” she added.
Now recognized as one of Nigeria’s most dynamic performers, Niniola’s decision to go independent is widely regarded as a bold move that has helped shape the soundscape of modern African music.
