Entertainment
Niniola Explains Why She Chose to Stay Independent as an Artist
Nigerian singer Niniola has shared her reasons for remaining an independent artist, despite numerous offers from record labels.
Niniola revealed that her decision was rooted in her awareness of the music business and her commitment to preserving her creative freedom.
In a recent interview with TVC, Niniola reflected on her decade-long journey as an independent artist.
She acknowledged that while signing with a record label has its advantages, such as financial backing and wider promotion, it also comes with significant drawbacks.
According to her, labels often dictate artistic direction, which could compromise her unique style and identity.
Recalling the early days of her career, Niniola disclosed that she was approached by a record label shortly after releasing her debut single, Ibadi.
However, she turned down the offer, fearing that signing a deal might force her to change her sound.
At that time, Afro-house—a genre blending African rhythms with house music—was not widely explored in Nigeria, and she was determined to stay true to her style.
“Being an independent artist allows me to control my creativity,” Niniola explained.
“I’ve seen the business side of music, which many artists overlook.
They focus solely on making music, but there’s more to it. I wanted the freedom to make decisions about my art without interference.”
She admitted that remaining independent comes with challenges, including managing her career, finances, and promotion without the support of a major label.
Beyond her career choices, Niniola shared a personal side of herself.
She described herself as an introvert who often prefers solitude, but her passion for music brings out a more outgoing version of her.
“Music makes me an extrovert. It’s where I feel most alive and expressive,” she said.
The long-awaited trial in the murder case of legendary rapper Tupac Shakur has reached a major development, with Duane “Keffe D” Davis sentenced to 40 years to life in prison on October 13, 2026.
Davis was convicted of first-degree murder in August 2026 for his role in orchestrating the 1996 killing. Tupac was shot in a drive-by attack in Las Vegas on September 7, 1996, and died six days later.
During the sentencing, the judge addressed Davis, rejecting his claims that he had changed his life and moved on from his past. “Mr. Davis, for three years, I’ve heard you say some variation of the same thing to law enforcement, [in interviews], in your book, and it’s something like, ‘Yeah, I was involved in this, but I’m different. I’ve moved on. I got out of Compton. I’m a grandfather now.’ I’m here to tell you that’s not how this works,” the judge said.
She continued “You don’t get to take a man from his family. You don’t get to take his very life, his whole future from him, and just walk away from it. Especially when that man is Tupac Shakur.
“The world never forgot about him and his death, and neither did Las Vegas. It took us 30 years, but at this time, you are going to face justice for what you did on Sept. 7, 1996.”
Nollywood actor Timini Egbuson has reflected on how his perception of YouTube movies has changed over the years. The actor recalled that there was a time when he looked down on movies released on YouTube.
However, he now appreciates the opportunities they have provided for his career and joked that he might have struggled financially if he had continued to dismiss them.
Sharing his thoughts in a post on X, Egbuson wrote “Can’t believe I was looking down on YouTube movies at some point. Hunger go don kpai me by now.”
Nigerian singer Timi Dakolo has advised young people who are still living with their parents not to rush into moving out because of peer pressure.
The singer encouraged young people to focus on their personal circumstances rather than compare their lives with those of others. He noted that there is no need to leave their parents’ homes simply because they want to feel independent.
Sharing his advice, Dakolo said “No hurry, leave your papa house because of peer pressure. Forget all that, ‘I don’t have my freedom here.’”
Judge Tells Duane Davis He Must Face Justice for Tupac’s Murder
Timini Egbuson Reflects on Embracing YouTube Movies in Nollywood
