Fast-rising Nigerian singer and songwriter, Ayorinde Mafoluku, popularly known as Ayo Maff, has shared how his childhood experiences in Bariga, Lagos, deeply influenced his music and inspired his debut album, Prince of the Streets.

In a recent chat, the 19-year-old artiste—who turns 20 on July 18—opened up about how growing up in Bariga played a big role in shaping his sound and storytelling.

“Yeah, growing up in Bariga helped me—and I would even say it influenced my music in lots of ways,” Ayo Maff said. “It allowed me to sing the reality—where I’m from and the genuine lifestyle. I can’t sing like I’m 30 when I’m still in my young age, so I don’t sing about things I don’t know. All the things I do sing about, people are also facing; so it’s all a reality check.”

Speaking about his new project, Prince of the Streets, the young star described it as a very personal body of work that took more than a year to complete.

“I’m really excited about this project. Prince of the Streets is my first studio album—and I used to say this is the album the world is missing—the youth, everyone!” he said. “Each song talks about a different phase of my life from the beginning all the way to where I am today.

 There’s growth, more experience, and more new things I’ve come to realise. I’d like to say it’s a continuation of my story and the world’s story as well.”

Signed to Empire Distribution, Ayo Maff already has two music projects to his name: his EP Maffian and the album Prince of the Streets, which continues to capture the realities of street life, ambition, and youthful dreams.