Timaya

Inetimi Alfred Odon, professionally known as Timaya, is a renowned Nigerian singer and songwriter, celebrated for his distinctive fusion of dancehall, reggae, and Afrobeat. Born on August 15, 1980, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, Timaya has carved out a unique lane for himself as one of Africa’s most influential and enduring music icons.

Early Life

Timaya hails from Odi, a riverside community in Kolokuma/Opokuma LGA, Bayelsa State, and belongs to the Ijaw ethnic group. He was raised in a large Christian household as the youngest of 15 children. His father was a banker, and his mother, a resourceful trader, both of whom instilled in him discipline, resilience, and independence.

Growing up in Port Harcourt, Timaya was shaped by the environmental and political struggles of the Niger Delta—realities that would later influence his socially conscious music. His early exposure to reggae and dancehall music, particularly the works of Bob Marley, Shabba Ranks, and Beenie Man, helped define his musical taste and passion.

Education

Timaya began his education at Assemblies of God Nursery and Primary School and attended Nkpolu Oroworukwo Secondary School, both in Port Harcourt. He later transferred to Ikeja Grammar School in Lagos to complete his secondary education.

In a bid to satisfy family expectations, he enrolled in Banking and Finance at the University of Port Harcourt, but left after one semester to pursue music. Determined to succeed, he moved to Lagos and began working as a backup singer for Eedris Abdulkareem, gaining valuable industry insight.

Music Career Overview

Breakthrough and Debut (2005–2007)

Timaya’s professional journey began with the breakout single “Dem Mama” (2005), a bold recounting of the 1999 Odi massacre. Produced by K-Solo, the song was raw, emotional, and politically charged, earning him underground credibility and setting the tone for his debut album True Story (2007).

National Stardom (2008–2010)

His sophomore album Gift and Grace (2008) elevated him to national fame, earning multiple Headies Awards, including Best Reggae/Dancehall Album. Songs like “Plantain Boy” showcased his gritty storytelling and vibrant sound.

Mainstream Consolidation (2010–2014)

Albums such as De Rebirth (2010) and Upgrade (2012) delivered mainstream hits like “Bum Bum”, “Sexy Ladies”, and “Malonogede”. He also featured on Kefee’s “Kokoroko”, which won Best Collaboration at The Headies.

His 2014 album Epiphany featured global collaborations (including Sean Paul) and viral tracks like “Sanko” and “Ukwu”, cementing his place as a dancehall heavyweight.

Mentorship and Evolution (2015–2020)

Timaya founded DM Records Limited, signing artists like Patoranking and King Perryy, helping shape the next generation of Afro-dancehall acts.

He released the Chulo Vibes EP (2019), featuring “Balance” and collaborations with Burna Boy, Alikiba, and Machel Montano. His 2020 album Gratitude offered introspective and spiritually themed songs like “Gra Gra”, “Born to Win”, and “Don Dada”.

Continued Relevance (2021–Present)

Timaya’s hit single “Cold Outside” ft. Buju (BNXN) (2021) marked a new era, appealing to a younger audience. “Sweet Us” (2022) became a dance anthem, and in 2024, he released his eighth studio album, Gladiator, inspired by life’s trials and victories.

Musical Style and Legacy

Timaya’s music blends:

• Reggae & Dancehall rhythms
• Afrobeat & Nigerian highlife
• Street slang & Social commentary

His lyrical themes include:

• Poverty & survival
• Political injustice
• Gratitude & spirituality
• Love, sensuality & betrayal

He is credited with pioneering Afro-dancehall in Nigeria and inspiring artists like Burna Boy, Runtown, and Patoranking.

Honours and Awards

The Headies

• 2008: Best Reggae/Dancehall Album, Best Single (Dem Mama)
• 2009: Album of the Year (Gift and Grace)
• 2011: Best Collaboration (Good or Bad)
• 2018: Best Reggae/Dancehall Single (Bam Bam)

Other Awards

• 2008: Nigeria Music Awards – Best Reggae/Dancehall Album
• 2010, 2017: City People Entertainment Awards
• 2011: Named United Nations Peace Ambassador
• 2017: AFRIMMA – Dancehall Artist of the Year

Major Nominations

• MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMA)
• Channel O Music Video Awards
• Nigerian Entertainment Awards (NEA)
• SoundCity MVP Awards Festival

Discography

Studio Albums

1. True Story (2007)
2. Gift and Grace (2008)
3. De Rebirth (2010)
4. Long Life N Prosperity (2011, with Dem Mama Soldiers)
5. Upgrade (2012)
6. Epiphany (2014)
7. Gratitude (2020)
8. Gladiator (2024)

EPs

• Chulo Vibes (2019)
• [Upcoming Project Expected in 2025]

Hit Singles

• Dem Mama, Plantain Boy, Bum Bum, Sanko, Ah Blem Blem, Cold Outside, Sweet Us, My Moto

Videography Highlights

From raw visuals like “Dem Mama” (2005) to polished international productions like “Bum Bum Remix” (feat. Sean Paul) and “Cold Outside” (feat. BNXN), Timaya’s videography reflects his artistic evolution and global ambition.

Directors like Clarence Peters, TG Omori, and Unlimited L.A have played key roles in creating visually compelling music videos that match his sonic brand.

Tours

• 2017: Timaya US Tour
• 2018: Live in Canada
• 2019: Chulo Vibes Europe Tour
• 2021: US Tour

Personal Life

Timaya is the father of four children (three daughters and a son) from different relationships. He has spoken candidly about how fatherhood transformed his life, making him more disciplined and introspective. Though unmarried, he maintains healthy co-parenting relationships and advocates for emotional peace over societal expectations regarding marriage.

He lives a lavish lifestyle, with luxury cars, mansions in Lagos and Port Harcourt, and a fashion-forward public image. Despite his reputation as a “bad boy,” Timaya is deeply spiritual, often expressing his gratitude to God through both his music and interviews.

Since 2020, he has adopted a healthier lifestyle, sharing his fitness journey and transformation with fans. He’s also known for avoiding public feuds, instead choosing diplomacy and respect—qualities that have earned him the enduring title “Egberi Papa 1 of Bayelsa.”

Controversies

Timaya, the Nigerian dancehall artist, has been involved in several controversies throughout his career. Here are some notable incidents:

1. Strategic Use of Controversy

In a 2024 interview, Timaya admitted that he initially adopted a controversial persona to gain media attention. However, he later acknowledged that this approach backfired, leading to negative publicity and personal challenges. He stated, “My being controversial was a strategy, but the press took it too far; they wanted to kill me.”

2. Public Dispute with Actress Empress Njamah

Timaya’s relationship with actress Empress Njamah ended contentiously, with reports that he retrieved a car he had previously gifted her. This incident attracted significant media attention and public scrutiny.

3. Allegations of Unpaid Royalties

In 2024, fellow Nigerian artist Terry G accused Timaya of failing to pay agreed-upon royalties for a song he produced. Terry G expressed his frustration on social media, highlighting issues of exploitation within the music industry.

4. Controversial Social Media Post

In March 2025, Timaya sparked controversy with a social media post addressing the destruction of farmlands in Bayelsa State by herdsmen. His use of the term “Aboki” in the post was criticized by some as ethnically insensitive.

5. Arrest Over Alleged Hit-and-Run Incident

In March 2022, Timaya was reportedly arrested following allegations of a hit-and-run incident that left a woman hospitalized. The incident was widely reported in the media, though details about legal proceedings remain limited.

6. Remarks About Nigerian Women

A video surfaced in April 2025 showing Timaya expressing a reluctance to date Nigerian women, which led to backlash on social media. Many criticized his comments as disrespectful and perpetuating negative stereotypes.

7. Accusation Against Apostle Johnson Suleman

In August 2024, Timaya made a cryptic tweet accusing Apostle Johnson Suleman of dishonesty, stating, “Apostle Sulaiman too LIE.” The lack of context led to widespread speculation and debate online.

8. Controversies and Scandals Involving Timaya: From Strategic Publicity to Unfounded Rumors

Timaya, the Nigerian Afro-dancehall artist, has been involved in several controversies throughout his career. Notably, he admitted that his early use of controversy as a publicity strategy backfired, leading to unintended consequences. In a 2024 interview, he stated, “My being controversial was a strategy, but the press took it too far; they wanted to kill me” .

One significant incident was his highly publicized breakup with actress Empress Njamah, during which he retrieved a car he had previously gifted her. Additionally, he had a public dispute with music producer Nico Gravity and was accused by fellow musician Terry G in 2023 of owing music royalties.

In 2024, Timaya faced allegations of song theft from the cultural music group United Boys Culture, who claimed he sampled their songs without permission .

Regarding his relationship with actor Jim Iyke, there have been longstanding rumors suggesting a romantic involvement between the two. However, these claims remain unsubstantiated. In a 2018 interview, Jim Iyke described Timaya as “the brother I never had,” emphasizing their close friendship . In 2024, they were seen together in Lagos, with fans noting their strong bond and shared fashion sense .

As of now, there is no credible evidence to support the rumors of a romantic relationship between Timaya and Jim Iyke.

Despite these controversies, Timaya has continued to maintain a successful music career, often addressing personal growth and transformation in his work.

Estimated Net Worth

As of 2025, Timaya’s estimated net worth is between $20 million to $30 million, amassed through music, touring, endorsements, and real estate investments, making him one of Nigeria’s wealthiest and most influential music figures.

Conclusion

From the troubled streets of Port Harcourt to international acclaim, Timaya’s story is one of resilience, originality, and growth. A pioneer of Afro-dancehall, a mentor to rising stars, and a symbol of authenticity, he continues to inspire millions across Africa and beyond.

His music echoes the heartbeat of the streets—raw, honest, and alive. As his legacy deepens, Timaya remains a cultural force, proving that realness, faith, and hustle can indeed take you to the top—and keep you there.

References

• • Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). Timaya. Wikipedia. Retrieved April 30, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timaya
  • Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). The Headies Award for Best Pop Single. Wikipedia. Retrieved April 30, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Headies_Award_for_Best_Pop_Single (The Headies Award for Best Pop Single)
  • Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). The Headies Award for Artiste of the Year. Wikipedia. Retrieved April 30, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Headies_Award_for_Artiste_of_the_Year (The Headies Award for Artiste of the Year)
  • Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). The Headies 2020. Wikipedia. Retrieved April 30, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Headies_2020
  • Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). The Headies. Wikipedia. Retrieved April 30, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Headies (The Headies)
  • Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). The Headies Award for Best Collaboration. Wikipedia. Retrieved April 30, 2025, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Headies_Award_for_Best_Collaboration (The Headies Award for Best Collaboration)
  • Timaya. (n.d.). Instagram profile. Retrieved April 30, 2025, from https://www.instagram.com/timayatimaya/

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