Early Life

Iyanya was born on Palm Street in Calabar, Cross River State. His mother was a headmistress, and his father worked as a forester. He described his mother as the strict disciplinarian in the household, while his father was the more lenient one. Tragically, both of his parents passed away in 2008, and his older brother also died around the same time.

Iyanya’s grandfather was a clergyman, and it was in his church that Iyanya first developed his love for music. He joined the church choir and became the choir master for the children’s choir at the age of five.

Iyanya completed his primary and secondary education in Calabar, and he later graduated with a degree in business management from the University of Calabar.

Career

After graduating from the University of Calabar, Iyanya worked in a hotel and managed a local bar, where he regularly performed karaoke.

It was at bars like Fiesta Fries, Mirage Nite Club, and West-Life that he fine-tuned his vocal skills. Inspired by artists such as Craig David and R. Kelly, Iyanya was motivated to pursue a music career after seeing the success of 2Face Idibia and Olu Maintain. Initially rapping under the name “Lofty,” Iyanya later transitioned to singing.

In 2008, Iyanya won the MTN Project Fame competition, defeating many talented contestants. This victory marked the start of his career, setting him apart from other competition winners who struggled to maintain success. Following his win, he began working on his debut album, My Story, released by CN Media Imprint.

During a visit to his hometown in Calabar, Iyanya was inspired by the local Etighi dance and decided to create a song that would help popularize it.

He teamed up with producer DTunes to create “Kukere,” which became a major hit, not only in Nigeria but also in Ghana and the UK. The success continued with the release of “Ur Waist,” featuring Emma Nyra.

In October 2013, Iyanya secured a lucrative endorsement deal with Solo Phones Nigeria, worth $220,000, which included a Toyota Prado. He also signed a $300,000 deal with Zinox Computers, becoming the brand’s ambassador. To expand his reach, Iyanya shifted from R&B to Afrobeat, gaining a wider audience. That same year, he embarked on an international tour, performing in London and Manchester.

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