In this exclusive interview, emerging Nigerian-American artiste Timilehin Akinsola opens up about her journey in music, cultural identity, and plans to connect with her roots. Born and raised in Los Angeles, California to parents from Okitipupa, Ondo State, Nigeria, Timilehin represents a new generation of artists bridging the gap between the African diaspora and contemporary Afrobeats. Despite never visiting Nigeria, she has cultivated a unique sound that blends smooth R&B, Neo Soul, and Alternative Afrobeats, while staying true to her heritage.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND HOW YOU STARTED MUSIC.
I grew up in a household where music was always playing. My siblings were always singing, so naturally, I gravitated towards music. When I was younger, I joined Ocherasta to learn how to play the piano, and that deepened my love for music. Later, I joined the choir, where I developed my singing ability. I also picked up a few other instruments like the guitar and participated in musical theatre to refine my voice.
My parents played a significant role in shaping my musical influences. I was raised on legendary artists like Bob Marley and Michael Jackson, so music became an essential part of my life. Eventually, I realized that I wanted to turn my passion into a career.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO INCORPORATE AFROBEATS INTO YOUR SOUND?
Afrobeats is in my blood. I want to stay true to myself while creating a unique sound that hasn’t been heard before. One of my biggest inspirations is Fela Kuti—his artistry and impact inspire me a lot. Among contemporary artists, I admire Tems; her style and originality push me to explore new dimensions in my music.
HAVE YOU BEEN TO NIGERIA BEFORE?
No, I’ve never been to Nigeria.
HOW DO YOU STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR NIGERIAN ROOTS?
One of the major ways I stay connected is through family. My parents play a big role in ensuring that I remain grounded in my Nigerian heritage. Even though I don’t speak Yoruba fluently, my parents speak it to my siblings and me. I also stay connected by listening to Afrobeats and engaging with the Nigerian community around me.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR SOUND?
I would describe my sound as a fusion of smooth, soft R&B with Afropop, Neo-Soul, and Alternative Afrobeats. I try not to confine myself to one genre—my music is very dynamic. While Afrobeats remains a core influence, I love exploring different subgenres and experimenting with diverse instruments.
WALK US THROUGH YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS. HOW DO YOU WRITE AND PRODUCE YOUR SONGS?
I let the music come to me organically—I don’t force it. If there’s too much pressure, the creative flow gets blocked. I draw inspiration from different forms of art, especially painting. Being in nature also sparks my creativity. I see myself as a vessel for music—it flows through me rather than me creating it.
Usually, I hum melodies first, and once I find something that resonates, I start building lyrics based on my emotions and experiences at that moment.
WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU AIM TO CONVEY THROUGH YOUR MUSIC?
I want to spread positivity and healing through my music. I believe I was born to be a healer, and my music is my way of spreading love, joy, and peace. My songs are inspired by biblical principles, particularly the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, and so on. Even when I sing about heartbreak, I aim to put a positive spin on it, reminding people that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
WHAT CHALLENGES DO YOU FACE TRYING TO BREAK INTO THE NIGERIAN MARKET AS AN AMERICAN-BASED ARTISTE?
It’s been very challenging. Sometimes, I feel disconnected from the original source of Afrobeats. While there is a Nigerian community here, it’s much smaller compared to being in Nigeria. Navigating the industry, networking, and finding like-minded creatives has been tough.
Another challenge is identity—I sometimes feel like I’m not “Nigerian enough” because I wasn’t born and raised there. However, I am embracing my uniqueness and finding my space within the industry.
HOW DO YOU BALANCE STAYING TRUE TO YOUR SOUND WHILE MAKING MUSIC FOR A NIGERIAN AUDIENCE?
I don’t make music with an audience in mind—I create the kind of music I enjoy. My philosophy is that those who resonate with my sound will naturally gravitate towards it. There are people like me who will connect with my music, and I focus on reaching them.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN MAKING MUSIC PROFESSIONALLY?
I officially started my music career in 2019, so it’s been about six years now.
WHAT STRATEGIES HAVE YOU USED TO PROMOTE YOUR MUSIC TO A NIGERIAN AND AFRICAN AUDIENCE?
To be honest, I’m still figuring that out. I’m still learning how to navigate social media and digital promotion. Marketing and audience growth are areas I’m actively working on improving.
ARE YOU CURRENTLY SIGNED TO A LABEL?
No, I’m independent.
HOW IMPORTANT IS COLLABORATION TO YOU, AND WHICH ARTISTS WOULD YOU LOVE TO WORK WITH?
Collaboration is very important to me. So far, I’ve worked with two American-based artists. For my upcoming project, I collaborated with Nigerian music legend Mike Okri, which was an incredible experience.
My dream collaboration, however, is with Kendrick Lamar—I admire him so much. On the Nigerian scene, I’d love to work with Rema. His sound is unique, and I believe we could create something special together.
WHAT ARE YOUR LONG-TERM GOALS FOR AFROBEATS AND YOUR CAREER AS AN ARTISTE?
My goal is to introduce a fresh sound to Afrobeats and contribute to its global expansion. Afrobeats is already taking over the world, and I believe I have a role to play in making it even more universal. On a personal level, I aspire to be among the greats and make a lasting impact on the industry.
HOW DOES YOUR MUSIC BRIDGE THE GAP BETWEEN AFRICANS IN THE DIASPORA AND THOSE BACK HOME?
As a Nigerian-American, I feel like I exist in the middle of both worlds. Many Nigerian-Americans feel a sense of separation from their culture, and I want to represent them by helping them embrace their heritage through music. Even though I haven’t been to Nigeria yet, I still feel deeply connected to the culture, and my music reflects that dual identity.
ARE THERE PLANS TO VISIT NIGERIA SOON?
Absolutely! I’m planning to visit Nigeria for Detty December this year. I can’t wait to experience it firsthand!
Instagram: @misstimilehin
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
