Afrobeats singer Folarin Odunlami, popularly known as Fola, said that he spent his first night in Lagos at the police station.
For many up-and-coming artists, relocating to Lagos is seen as a gateway to success, but the city gave him a harsh welcome that nearly ended his career before it began.
Speaking during an interview on The Beat 99.9 FM Lagos, the Alone singer shared that upon his arrival in the city, he was arrested and had to spend his very first night in a police cell.
The experience, he said, was disheartening enough to make him question whether he should continue pursuing music.
“I relocated to Lagos in 2018 to pursue my music career. It has been rough but… I wasn’t born here, so it was so hard at first but I have adapted to both the living conditions and the hustle. The very first day I came to Lagos, I was arrested. I slept at the police station. It was a long story. I don’t want to remember it. I almost gave up,” he recalled.
Despite the rocky start, Fola noted that he has since found his footing in the bustling city. Though the adjustment wasn’t easy, he credits his persistence for helping him push through the early struggles.
“I have adapted. At first it was tough. But now I understand the hustle, the pressure, and the lifestyle. You have to be strong if you want to survive here,” he said.
In 2024, things took a positive turn for the singer after he secured a record deal with Dagbani Republik, the label founded by Bella Shmurda. The signing in October 2024 marked a new chapter in Fola’s journey, expanding his fan base and earning him recognition for his sound and lyrical depth.
