If you’ve been scrolling through timelines, streaming playlists, or just talking to friends about new music, there’s a name you can’t escape right now: FOLA. Whether it’s on TikTok, Twitter, or Spotify, the buzz is real, and it’s not slowing down. Our Gen Z admin has been vibing to his tracks for weeks, and after diving deeper, we found there’s a lot more to FOLA than just catchy hooks.
From his early releases to dominating charts in 2025, FOLA has steadily built a career that’s impossible to ignore. His music doesn’t just play, it lingers, sticks in conversations, and invites listeners to sing along. If you’ve been wondering why everyone seems to know his songs, it’s because FOLA isn’t just a rising star; he’s becoming a movement. Here’s everything we found out about him, in five points you need to know.
1. He’s Signed to Bella Shmurda’s Dangbana Republik
One of the first things we learned about FOLA is that he isn’t walking this path alone. In October 2024, he signed a major recording deal with Dangbana Republik, the record label owned by Bella Shmurda. This isn’t just any label, it’s one of the platforms that has been instrumental in shaping Afrobeats’ new wave. Bella Shmurda’s backing has given FOLA access to experienced producers, strategic guidance, and collaborations that amplify his sound.
Being part of Dangbana Republik also means FOLA isn’t limited to solo projects. His features and co-productions are carefully curated, making each release feel like a calculated step toward building a sustainable, long-term career. Simply put, he’s positioned himself not just as another Afrobeats artist but as someone with the infrastructure and mentorship to make big moves. In 2025, this deal clearly paid off, giving him both visibility and credibility in a crowded music scene.
2. “Ginger Me” Was His Real Breakout Moment
FOLA’s rise didn’t happen overnight. While the world is buzzing about his 2025 releases, his journey actually started in 2022 with “Ginger Me”, featuring Bella Shmurda. This song introduced his unique voice and style to a broader audience, mixing catchy melodies with lyrics that resonate.
After “Ginger Me”, FOLA kept the momentum with a string of releases like “Cool Me Down”, “Beholder”, and his first solo track, “Bella”. By the end of 2022, it was clear that FOLA wasn’t just experimenting; he was steadily building a catalog that showcased his versatility. Unlike artists who fade after a single viral hit, FOLA laid the groundwork early, proving he could sustain attention and grow his fan base organically. These early tracks were his foundation, setting the stage for the explosive recognition that would come later.
Read: The New Faces of Afrobeats: Inside the Rise of Rema, Tems, Asake & Ayra Starr
3. His Debut EP Showed He’s More Than a One-Hit Wonder
In December 2024, FOLA released his debut extended play, What a Feeling, and it did more than satisfy fans, it confirmed his artistry. The EP features appearances from Bella Shmurda, Magixx, Bnxn, and BhadBoi OML, blending different styles while keeping a cohesive sound that’s distinctly FOLA.
Critics praised the project for enchanting storytelling, soulful melodies, and thoughtful lyrics. TooXclusive called it a testament to his potential, while Album Talk highlighted how FOLA tells relatable stories of love, desire, and heartbreak that feel genuine. Unlike many debuts, this EP didn’t rely on flashy production alone, it showcased his heartfelt writing and unique sonic identity, setting him apart from peers chasing the next viral moment. For listeners, it was clear: FOLA isn’t just releasing songs; he’s building a musical world you want to spend time in.
4. 2025 Was the Year Everything Exploded
If 2024 was about building momentum, 2025 was when FOLA truly exploded. This was the year he went from rising artist to chart-dominating phenomenon. He released collaborations with heavyweights like Zlatan “Get Better”, Kizz Daniel, Bnxn, and even shared the stage virtually with Wizkid on DJ Tunez’s “One Condition”.
Tracks like “Alone” and its remix featuring Bnxn charted at number 1 on Nigeria Official Streaming Songs and peaked in the top 10 of the UK Afrobeats charts. His single “You” became an instant fan favorite, while “Dangbana Riddim” with Bella Shmurda cemented his status in the street and digital music circuits alike.
The strategy is clear: FOLA doesn’t just drop songs; he creates momentum. Every release adds to his presence on charts, playlists, and social conversations, making him impossible to ignore. By mid-2025, whether you’re in Lagos, London, or New York, there’s a good chance you’ve heard a FOLA track blasting somewhere.
5. Apple Music Named Him the Face of 2025 Afrobeats
This isn’t just a trophy; it’s a clear signal of influence. FOLA’s music resonates widely, and the numbers confirm it. Beyond streaming, he also announced his first headline concert in December at the Balmoral Event Centre in Lagos, and tickets sold out within minutes. This shows that his appeal isn’t just digital, it’s live, tangible, and growing rapidly. Fans are not only listening; they’re showing up. And as Afrobeats continues to expand globally, FOLA’s style, consistency, and emotional authenticity position him as a leader in this next wave of artists.
Read: Adekunle Gold Makes History as First Headliner of the Renovated National Theatre
FOLA Isn’t Just the Next Big Thing, He’s the Now
FOLA’s journey shows a combination of talent, strategy, and cultural timing. From signing with Dangbana Republik to releasing a debut EP, dominating charts, and being crowned the face of Apple Music’s Best of 2025 Afrobeats Hits, everything points to one fact: FOLA isn’t just rising, he’s here to stay.
So, as you wrap up your first work week of the year, we recommend you press play on FOLA. Whether it’s “You”, “Paparazzi”, or “Ginger Me”, his tracks are made to vibe to, reflect on, and sing along with. And since we’re curious, what’s your favorite FOLA track? Let us know. We’re currently hooked on “You” and “Paparazzi”.
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