Shola Allyson

Shola Allyson-Obaniyi, popularly known as Shola Allyson, is a Nigerian soul and folk singer, and song-writer. She came into limelight with the hit album Eji Owuro (2003), which was the soundtrack album for a film of the same name. After Eji Owuro, she released other albums like Gbe Je F'ori and Im'oore. Her popular songs include: "Eji Owuro", "Obinrin Ni Mi", "Aseye", "Isinmi", amongst others. Apart from being a singer, she is also a voice coach, counsellor and a consultant.

Early life and education

Allyson was born in Ikorodu, Lagos State in the early 1970s. She had her primary education at Anglican Primary School, Ikorodu, after which she attended Shams-el-deen Grammar School, Ikorodu for her secondary education. She subsequently attended Government Technical College, Agidingbi, Ikeja, where she studied Business Studies and obtained an NBTE Certificate.

In 1997, she gained admission into The Polytechnic, Ibadan to study Music Technology, majoring in Voice and minoring in Music. She acquired a Higher National Diploma (HND) degree with a Upper Credit.

Career

Allyson started her career as a back-up singer in the late 1980s, when she was only thirteen. She later became a professional back-up singer and worked with musicians such as: Yinka Ayefele, Gbenga Adeboye, Pasuma, Obesere and Daddy Showkey. The opportunity to make her first album Eji Owuro, came when she met a man with a movie script in a public bus. The man initiated a conversation with Allyson, telling her about a film shoot he just concluded, titled "Orekelewa". Allyson was eventually called to sing a soundtrack for the film, which led to the change in the title of the film to "Eji Owuro". When Eji Owuro the film, was released, the studio decided to make a full music album for the film. The album, upon release, became a huge success commercially and critically, launching Allyson into the music industry.

Personal life

Allyson got married in March 2003. She met her husband, Toyin Obaniyi in the church choir. Together, they both have 3 children: Ayobami, Mopelola and Obafunmiwo.

Discography

Albums

• Eji Owuro (2003)
• Gbe Je F'ori (2005)
• Ire (2007)
• Im'oore (2009)
• Adun (2012)