Timaya
- Born
- 1980-08-15 (age 45)
- Birthplace
- Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
- Occupation
- Singer, Songwriter, Entertainer, Entrepreneur, Musician, Record Producer, Music Producer, Music Executive, Hip-hop Artist, Cultural Ambassador, Backup Singer
- Alma Mater
- Assemblies of God Nursery and Primary School, Port Harcourt; Nkpolu Oroworukwo Secondary School, Port Harcourt; Ikeja Grammar School, Lagos; University of Port Harcourt
- AKA
- Egberi Papa 1 of Bayelsa
Biography
EARLY LIFE
Inetimi Alfred Odon, professionally known as Timaya, is a renowned Nigerian singer and songwriter, celebrated for his distinctive fusion of dancehall, reggae, and Afrobeat. Born on August 15, 1980, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, Timaya hails from Odi, a riverside community in Kolokuma/Opokuma LGA, Bayelsa State, and belongs to the Ijaw ethnic group. He was raised in a large Christian household as the youngest of 15 children. His father was a banker, and his mother, a resourceful trader, both of whom instilled in him discipline, resilience, and independence. Growing up in Port Harcourt, Timaya was shaped by the environmental and political struggles of the Niger Delta—realities that would later influence his socially conscious music. His early exposure to reggae and dancehall music, particularly the works of Bob Marley, Shabba Ranks, and Beenie Man, helped define his musical taste and passion. Timaya began his education at Assemblies of God Nursery and Primary School and attended Nkpolu Oroworukwo Secondary School, both in Port Harcourt. He later transferred to Ikeja Grammar School in Lagos to complete his secondary education. In a bid to satisfy family expectations, he enrolled in Banking and Finance at the University of Port Harcourt, but left after one semester to pursue music. Determined to succeed, he moved to Lagos and began working as a backup singer for Eedris Abdulkareem, gaining valuable industry insight.
CAREER
Timaya’s professional journey began with the breakout single “Dem Mama” (2005), a bold recounting of the 1999 Odi massacre. Produced by K-Solo, the song was raw, emotional, and politically charged, earning him underground credibility and setting the tone for his debut album True Story (2007). His sophomore album Gift and Grace (2008) elevated him to national fame, earning multiple Headies Awards, including Best Reggae/Dancehall Album. Songs like “Plantain Boy” showcased his gritty storytelling and vibrant sound. Albums such as De Rebirth (2010) and Upgrade (2012) delivered mainstream hits like “Bum Bum”, “Sexy Ladies”, and “Malonogede”. He also featured on Kefee’s “Kokoroko”, which won Best Collaboration at The Headies. His 2014 album Epiphany featured global collaborations (including Sean Paul) and viral tracks like “Sanko” and “Ukwu”, cementing his place as a dancehall heavyweight. Timaya founded DM Records Limited, signing artists like Patoranking and King Perryy, helping shape the next generation of Afro-dancehall acts. He released the Chulo Vibes EP (2019), featuring “Balance” and collaborations with Burna Boy, Alikiba, and Machel Montano. His 2020 album Gratitude offered introspective and spiritually themed songs like “Gra Gra”, “Born to Win”, and “Don Dada”. Timaya’s hit single “Cold Outside” ft. Buju (BNXN) (2021) marked a new era, appealing to a younger audience. “Sweet Us” (2022) became a dance anthem, and in 2024, he released his eighth studio album, Gladiator, inspired by life’s trials and victories. Timaya’s music blends Reggae & Dancehall rhythms, Afrobeat & Nigerian highlife, Street slang & Social commentary. His lyrical themes include poverty & survival, political injustice, gratitude & spirituality, love, sensuality & betrayal. He is credited with pioneering Afro-dancehall in Nigeria and inspiring artists like Burna Boy, Runtown, and Patoranking. From raw visuals like “Dem Mama” (2005) to polished international productions like “Bum Bum Remix” (feat. Sean Paul) and “Cold Outside” (feat. BNXN), Timaya’s videography reflects his artistic evolution and global ambition. Directors like Clarence Peters, TG Omori, and Unlimited L.A have played key roles in creating visually compelling music videos that match his sonic brand. Tours: 2017: Timaya US Tour; 2018: Live in Canada; 2019: Chulo Vibes Europe Tour; 2021: US Tour. As of 2025, Timaya’s estimated net worth is between $20 million to $30 million, amassed through music, touring, endorsements, and real estate investments, making him one of Nigeria’s wealthiest and most influential music figures. From the troubled streets of Port Harcourt to international acclaim, Timaya’s story is one of resilience, originality, and growth. A pioneer of Afro-dancehall, a mentor to rising stars, and a symbol of authenticity, he continues to inspire millions across Africa and beyond. His music echoes the heartbeat of the streets—raw, honest, and alive. As his legacy deepens, Timaya remains a cultural force, proving that realness, faith, and hustle can indeed take you to the top—and keep you there.
PERSONAL LIFE
Timaya is the father of four children (three daughters and a son) from different relationships. He has spoken candidly about how fatherhood transformed his life, making him more disciplined and introspective. Though unmarried, he maintains healthy co-parenting relationships and advocates for emotional peace over societal expectations regarding marriage. He lives a lavish lifestyle, with luxury cars, mansions in Lagos and Port Harcourt, and a fashion-forward public image. Despite his reputation as a “bad boy,” Timaya is deeply spiritual, often expressing his gratitude to God through both his music and interviews. Since 2020, he has adopted a healthier lifestyle, sharing his fitness journey and transformation with fans. He’s also known for avoiding public feuds, instead choosing diplomacy and respect—qualities that have earned him the enduring title “Egberi Papa 1 of Bayelsa.” Timaya, the Nigerian dancehall artist, has been involved in several controversies throughout his career. In a 2024 interview, Timaya admitted that he initially adopted a controversial persona to gain media attention, but acknowledged it backfired. His relationship with actress Empress Njamah ended contentiously, with reports that he retrieved a car he had previously gifted her. In 2024, fellow Nigerian artist Terry G accused Timaya of failing to pay agreed-upon royalties. In March 2025, Timaya sparked controversy with a social media post addressing the destruction of farmlands in Bayelsa State by herdsmen, with his use of the term “Aboki” being criticized as ethnically insensitive. In March 2022, Timaya was reportedly arrested following allegations of a hit-and-run incident that left a woman hospitalized. A video surfaced in April 2025 showing Timaya expressing a reluctance to date Nigerian women, which led to backlash. In August 2024, Timaya made a cryptic tweet accusing Apostle Johnson Suleman of dishonesty. There have been longstanding unsubstantiated rumors suggesting a romantic involvement between Timaya and actor Jim Iyke, which Jim Iyke dismissed as a close friendship. In 2024, they were seen together in Lagos, with fans noting their strong bond.
Filmography
No filmography available for this person yet.
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Popularity Score
Top 99% of African actors
