Ayoinmotion is a Mindful Afrobeat musician whose music landed him as a featured artist on the Essence Fest music stage in 2019, the Apple Music series concerts, and an interview by the Grammys. Ayo's work in music, mental health, and community keep him at the forefront of rising Afrobeat stars on a conscientious level.

With an engaged and in tune following Ayoinmotion is known for pouring into his community through music- such as his concert at the University of Michigan and most recently performing in South Africa at the Nwali Festival in support of those speaking out against Gender-Based Violence.

Forward-thinking and on the heels of his recently debuted single, Omí, which has a steady and growing viewership on YouTube, Ayoinmotion has taken not only his music but mental wellness into new heights. His lyrics remind us to ease our minds as he raps "I know life is heavy. But sometimes it's light too, you just have to put away that anxiety & stress and just flow like water."

While Ayoinmotion continues to use his music to promote Black mindfulness by curating events like Good Vibes in the Park- a gathering that creates safe spaces, centers mental health, and affirms joy in a time of social injustice, his ethos is rooted in fueling the mind and soul. Raine sits down with Ayoinmotion to take a look into his world.

1. What was the initial spark of creative inspiration that led you to pursue a career in music?

For me, it was always the need to speak toward what was happening in my environment. I grew up during a military dictatorship in Nigeria where freedom of speech, especially against the government, was heavily frowned upon. I held opinions about this, and had a voice, even as a kid. Soon the voice began to find its way into my poetry, and subsequently, my music. It is as if art is the vessel that carries my voice and powers my purpose; this is what music is for me.

2. Tell us three interesting facts about yourself as a musician

I am incredibly persistent, and almost everyone I have worked with can tell you this. I love performing live on stage. It feels like it's a sacred conversation between myself and my fans. I never release a song until I believe I am really done with it. For example, my latest single Omi went through at least 10 versions before the final song came out. Speaking of Omi, I am so excited to see the rave reviews the song and video have received so far. 16k views and counting, and really looking forward to even more people seeing it and adding it to all their streaming playlists.

3. What challenges has your creative journey as a musician presented? What would your best advice to readers be in terms of tackling these issues?

There are many challenges, but the main one is understanding that talent seldom goes forward without a great work ethic to complement it. And many at times people value your art and music more than they value you, so speak up and advocate for yourself..you should always be your biggest cheerleader.

4.Congrats on your South African performance at the Nwali Festival, that's a pretty big deal....tell us more about it?

It was truly an opportunity of a lifetime in more ways than one. I remember telling my Creative Director back in December while I was in Kenya how I wanted to perform in South Africa this year and I had no idea it would happen so quickly. I really enjoyed performing in South Africa and the vibe of the people there towards my music was further validation that this sound of mine and the message within it can really resonate globally! I also mixed things up, so part of my set featured my more energetic songs like Peculiar Mess and Gbesoke, but I also hipped them to my latest single, Omí.

5. When can those in America catch you next? Any live performances or releases coming up?

Very soon. I have something coming up either later in April or May but I can't announce it yet. Before anyone finds out, I always tell my fans, family and friends first through my email list...you can sign up here and you will be the first to know.

6. And collaborations?

Yes I do, one or two people you all might know, but I can't share them right now. Keep following me on Instagram and Spotify/Apple Music especially, and be the first to know! But for now, go watch Omí and follow me on Instagram so you don't miss it when I announce the big news.

7. How has your music evolved throughout your career?

In so many ways. I started out as a poet that really crafted my early sound, especially as I transitioned into hip-hop and incorporated Afrobeat(s). Soon I began to explore sounds from all over the world and really got into house music, especially when I worked with a friend and producer who I met on tour in Europe. Looking through my discography, listening to my songs, the evolution as well as range is pretty evident.

8.What do you think Afrobeat as a genre offers as a unique selling point for both musicians and listeners?

It's sonically addictive and infiltrates listeners with a vibe that is spiritual, and at the same time seductive. It's also further introducing people to the sights and sounds of the African continent, especially those around the world who weren't already familiar. Its appeal is raw, sonically seductive and unadulterated. That's its key selling point.

9. How has the global footprint of the Afrobeat genre expanded throughout your career?

It's been great to see, especially as it goes from one big song blowing globally once a year, to now having multiple. So much has happened in the last 4 years, but I honestly believe that the best is yet to come and I very much plan to be part of that "best".

Rising Afropop star Ayoinmotion takes us on a journey through his career