Yinka Ayefele – Gospel Singer
| Stage Name: | Yinka Ayefele |
| Real Name: | Olayinka Joel Ayefele MON |
| Occupation: | Gospel Artist |
| Date Of Birth/Age: | 1st February, 1968 (55 years old) |
| Place of Birth: | Lagos State |
| Gender: | Male |
| Nationality: | Nigerian |
| Marital Status: | Temitope Ayefele (Wife) |
| Education: | Ondo State College of Arts and Science |
| Known for: | Something Else |
Early Life and Education
Born on February 1, 1968, in Ipoti-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria, Olayinka Joel Ayefele MON, popularly known as Yinka Ayefele, is a renowned Nigerian music producer, gospel singer, radio presenter, and the visionary behind the Fresh and Blast FM network of radio stations spanning across southwestern Nigeria. His early education took place at Our Saviours Anglican Primary School in Ipoti-Ekiti, and later at Ondo State College of Arts and Science in Ikare Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria.
Career Beginnings and Musical Journey
Ayefele’s career kickstarted with a brief stint as a journalist and broadcaster at the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria in Ibadan. During this time, he also crafted jingles and musical works for radio. However, a life-altering event occurred in 1997 when he was involved in a car accident, resulting in damage to his spinal cord and confinement to a wheelchair.
During his nine-month hospital stay, a friend encouraged him to channel his experiences into music. This suggestion led to the release of his debut album, “Bitter Experience,” in 1998, followed by “Sweet Experience.” The titles of these albums mirrored the challenges he faced and the sweetness that followed adversity.
Subsequently, Ayefele continued to produce several albums, including “Something Else,” “Divine Intervention,” and “Life after Death,” a tribute to the late Gbenga Adeboye. His music, published by different outfits over the years, has resonated with audiences, reflecting his resilience and deep connection with gospel themes.
Awards and Honors
Yinka Ayefele’s contribution to the music industry has been widely acknowledged, with over 200 awards to his name. Notable among these is the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) award conferred by President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan in 2011. Additionally, he has received the Ekiti Cultural Ambassador Award.
Radio Stations and Entrepreneurship
A multifaceted individual, Yinka Ayefele is the proud owner of Fresh FM, a network of radio stations across southwestern Nigeria. The Ibadan arm of Fresh FM, established in 2015, was licensed by the Nigerian National Broadcasting Commission. Subsequent arms have been opened in Abeokuta, Ado Ekiti, Akure, Osogbo, and Lagos. Unfortunately, Ayefele faced a setback when the Oyo State Government demolished Ayefele’s Music House, which housed Fresh FM, in 2018, citing a violation of town planning regulations.
Discography
Yinka Ayefele’s musical journey is documented through a diverse discography, showcasing his versatility and ability to navigate various genres. Some of his albums include “Bitter Experience” (1998), “Sweet Experience” (1999), “Life after Death” (2003), “Gratitude” (2007), “Upliftment” (2015), and “Manifestation” (2021), among others.
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Achievements and Controversy
In addition to his musical accomplishments, Yinka Ayefele received the Officer of the Order of the Niger award. However, he faced controversy when sued by the Awujale of Ijebuland for alleged defamation, a legal challenge that unfolded in the Oyo State High Court.
Wife and Kids
Yinka Ayefele is married to his wife, Temitope, and they have three children.
Net Worth
His estimated net worth is $1,000,000, solidifying his position as one of the wealthiest gospel artists in Nigeria. You can connect with him on Instagram.
