In this post, Platinum Times Nigeria chronicles the life story and net worth of popular music artist, Timaya.
Timaya, whose real name is Inetimi Alfred Odon, is a prominent Nigerian singer, songwriter, and performer known for his unique blend of Afrobeat, dancehall, and reggae music.
He is the founder of DM (Dem Mama) Records Limited, which he is also signed to.
Profile summary
Name: Inetimi Alfred Odon
Date of birth: 15th August, 1980
State of origin: Odi, Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Education: University of Port Harcourt
Relationship status: Single
Career: Music artist
Background
Born on August 15th, 1980 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State but originally hails from Bayelsa State.
Timaya grew up as part of a large family, the youngest among fifteen children.
His father was a banker, and his mother was a trader.
He had his early education at the Assemblies of God Nursery and Primary School before attending Nkpolu Oroworukwo in Port Harcourt.
Owing to his stubborn behavior and frequent violation of house orders, he was sent to Lagos where he completed his secondary education at the Ikeja Grammar School.
He returned to Port Harcourt to earn a degree in Banking and Finance from the University of Port Harcourt but dropped out to pursue his musical career.
Music career
He began his career as a backup vocalist for Eedris Abdulkareem, another music artist for three years.
In 2005 he reeleased the solo single, “Dem Mama” which highlighted the Odi massacre, this was followed by his debut album, True Story.
Ever since, he has released several albums and singles which have earned him lots of public recognitions both locally and internationally.
Timaya’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish his own record label, Dem Mama Records Limited, where he nurtured his unique musical style and released his iconic songs.
He has also signed several contracts with top companies such as; MTN, Globacom, Hennessy and Moniepoint.
He is the CEO of Chulo Brand, a fashion clothing line which is inspired by his popular nickname Papi Chulo or Chulo.
Songs
Over the years, Timaya has released several successful albums and singles that have topped music charts and earned him numerous awards and accolades.
Some of his most popular songs include;
- Sexy Ladies
- Malonogede
- Dem Mama
- Bam Bam
- Kom Kom
- Balance
- I Can’t Kill Myself
- 2 Stoopid
- Cold Outside
- Tomato
- Ukwu
- Bum Bum etc.
His music albums includes;
- De Rebirth (2010), in partnership with Black Body Entertainment.
- LLNP Long Life N Prosperity (2011), in collaboration with Dem Mama Soldiers
- Upgrade (2012)
- Epiphany (2014)
- Chulo Vibes EP (2019)
- Gratitude (2020)
Personal life
The star musician has had several past relationships that did not end in marriage.
He often talks about not being ready to commit to one lady at the expense of his career.
Despite being single, he has four children from his past relationships.
His first baby mama is the realtor and business lady Barbara Fumnaya Nwaokolo.
They both were together from 2014 to 2017 and together, they have two beautiful girls.
He got his first son Emmanuel with entrepreneur Tamar Décor in 2018.
Timaya’s third baby mama is the visual studio producer Dunnie Onasanya, and they welcomed a daughter, Maya in 2020.
Timaya’s influence extends beyond music, as he is regarded as a trendsetter and style icon in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
His dynamic personality, fashion sense, and positive outlook on life have endeared him to fans of all ages.
Net worth
Timaya has accumulated a net worth of $14 million over the years and this can serve as a testament to his extraordinary talent, relentless work ethic, and entrepreneurial vision.
Awards
Album of the Year for True Story at the Nigeria Music awards in 2008.
Best Reggae/Dancehall Album for True Story at the Headies award in 2008.
Best Reggae/Dancehall Album for Gift and Grace in 2009.
Best Collaboration, “Good or Bad” (with J. Martins and P-Square) in 2009.
Best Collaboration, “Kokoroko” (with Kefee) in 2010.
Best Afro-Dancehall song, ” Plantain Boy” at the Afrotainment-Museke Online African Music Awards in 2011.
Dancehall Act of the year at the AFRIMMA awards in 2017.