Toyin Sokefun-Bello, widely known as TY Bello, was born on January 14, 1978, in Ogun State, Nigeria. Growing up in a creative environment, with her father, Remi Sokefun, being a renowned TV producer, TY Bello was naturally inclined towards the arts. She pursued a degree in Economics at the University of Lagos, where she developed a passion for music and photography, setting the stage for her multifaceted career.
Music Career
TY Bello's musical journey began in earnest with the gospel band Kush, an acronym for Kinetically Ushering Salvation into Hearts and Homes. The group, which included Lara George, Dapo Torimiro, and rapper Emem Ema, gained popularity in the early 2000s with their hit single "Let's Live Together." Despite their success, Kush eventually disbanded, prompting TY Bello to embark on a solo career.
In 2008, she released her debut album, "Greenland," which earned her accolades, including a Nigeria Music Award and a Sound City Award. The album, produced by Mosa Adegboye, is a reflection of her personal journey and experiences, with themes revolving around love, family, and national pride. The title track, "Greenland," became an anthem of hope and inspiration for many Nigerians.
Her second album, "The Future," released in 2011, continued to solidify her reputation as a powerful voice in the Nigerian music industry. The lead single, "The Future," encouraged Nigerian youth to strive for positive change. The album's promotion included a compelling music video directed by Kemi Adetiba, featuring notable personalities like Tara Fela-Durotoye, Sound Sultan, and Banky W.
In 2014, TY Bello released "The Morning Songbook," a collection of songs available for free digital download. This album, featuring tracks like "Yahweh" and "Thirsty," further showcased her talent and commitment to uplifting and inspiring her audience.
Her subsequent albums, including "Africa Awake" (2021), "We Are Fire" (2022), and "Heaven Has Come" (2023), along with the anticipated "The Spirit of Light" (2024), reflect her evolving artistry and dedication to her craft.
Photography Career
While TY Bello's music career was flourishing, she also made significant strides in photography. She started focusing on photography after Kush disbanded, at a time when the profession was not widely recognized in Nigeria. Her talent and unique perspective quickly earned her recognition, leading to roles such as the official photographer for former President Goodluck Jonathan and contributions to Thisday fashion magazine.
Her work often blends portrait, documentary, and conceptual photography, capturing the essence of her subjects with a distinctive style that evokes strong emotional responses. One of her most notable photography projects involved the discovery of Olajumoke Orisaguna, a bread seller who inadvertently walked into a photo shoot with British rapper Tinie Tempah. TY Bello's keen eye and compassionate nature helped transform Olajumoke's life, propelling her into a successful modeling career.
Beyond her artistic endeavors, TY Bello is a dedicated philanthropist. She organizes annual photography exhibitions to raise funds for orphans in Nigeria and serves as the director of Link-a-Child, an NGO focused on creating awareness and securing sponsorships for orphanages. Her humanitarian work also includes advocating for women's rights and fighting against gender-based violence. In 2011, she participated in an anti-rape campaign video by the Nigerian Ministry of Youth Development, highlighting the issue of sexual violence in the country.
Awards and Recognition
TY Bello's contributions to music, photography, and humanitarian causes have earned her numerous awards and nominations, including:
Best New Act of the Year at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards (2008)
Best Female Video at the Sound City Video Awards (2009)
Most Creative Personality of the Year at the SRAF Awards (2017)
TY Bello's journey is a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and compassion. Through her evocative music, striking photography, or tireless philanthropic efforts, she inspires and uplifts countless individuals across Nigeria and beyond. Her work is a vivid reminder of the profound impact that art and humanity can have on society.
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