Niniola is undoubtedly one of the best female vocalists in the Nigerian music industry, with a soulful, sensual voice. Her voice is comparable to the sirens of Greek mythology. It takes one on a willful journey into the sensations and vibes of music, getting under your skin. Her voice and melody take control of your senses.
Niniola’s Musical Prowess
Niniola came to public attention after finishing as the third runner-up in the sixth season of Project Fame West Africa in 2013. She stamped her name in the Nigerian music industry with the release of her debut hit single “Ibadi.”
Self-dubbed the queen of Afro-house, Niniola is known for her dexterity in mixing Nigerian afrobeat elements with popular South African house music and amapiano.
Niniola excels in her niche, collaborating with South African music powerhouse, the “qgom queen” Busiswa. This has helped her gain wide acceptance in South Africa. Her song “Maradona” achieved Gold certification in 2021 and Platinum status in January 2023 by the Recording Industry of South Africa (RISA).
Furthermore, she was also nominated for the Best African Artist Album category at the South African Music Awards in 2018. In addition, she has embarked on media tours and performed at events like the SA Music Carnival in South Africa.
She is the sister of Nigerian afrobeat artist Teniola, She has also received nods from global music powerhouses like Drake, DJ Snake, and record producer Timbaland. Additionally, Beyoncé’s soundtrack album “The Lion King: The Gift” also sampled “Maradona” in the song “Find Your Way Back.”
Niniola’s Break Into R&B
In effect, Niniola has carved a niche for herself in Afrohouse, Amapiano, and Afrobeats, but she demonstrated her versatility with R&B in her extended play album “6th Sense.” This 5-track work of art delves into themes of love won, lost, and won again, showcasing her emotional depth.
The One
“The One” opens the EP with Niniola expressing her feelings to “the one” she loves. She acknowledges the hostility towards their love and laments the person’s obliviousness to her advances. She ends on a strong note by affirming that he is “the one” for her. This track resonates with the increasing vocalization of women about their sexuality and attraction to men.
6th Heaven
The title track, “6th Heaven,” is rich with sexual innuendos, painting vivid images of sensual, slow lovemaking. Niniola asks her lover to give her the “best time of her life,” taking her to the 6th heaven, with an electric guitar solo epitomizing her abrupt climax.
Promise
“Promise,” the third track, explores the heartbreaking side of romance. While Niniola uses her siren-like voice to express her pain at losing her lying, cheating man to another, she promises him that he “will never find someone as loving and peaceful” as her. After all, she maintains a strong energy, asserting she will pull through and is the best a man can have.
Baby
In “Baby,” Niniola tells her “baby” how he makes her feel, causing her to “shayo” and “shack her brain.” She shares how she waited for someone like him to rescue her from her unloved state, brightening her day, illustrating the intoxication love can bring after the heartbreak of “Promise.”
Ryde
The EP concludes with “Ryde,” showing the playful side of love. Niniola’s love interest expresses his devotion, showering her with attention. He does crazy things including washing her panties and paying her medical bills. Her words highlight the extent of his devotion: “Wetin you do for me Romeo no fit do am for Juliet.”
Final Words
The “6th Sense” album is definitely worth enjoying repeatedly for anyone who loves Niniola and R&B. She should continue to branch out, delivering musical orgasms to her teeming fans and everyone who loves music. The sky is just the beginning for her.
