Liya Biography, Net Worth, And Career Achievements

Liya, born Abdulsalam Suliyat Modasola on April 4, 1999, is a Nigerian Afrobeat singer, songwriter, and performer. She rose to prominence after becoming the first female artist signed to Davido Music Worldwide (DMW), the record label owned by Nigerian music superstar, Davido. Since her signing in 2020, Liya has become one of the most promising talents in the Nigerian music industry, known for her smooth vocals, Afrobeat fusion, and ability to blend African rhythms with contemporary sounds. Though her career is still relatively young, Liya has already made significant strides in establishing herself as a key player in the Afrobeat genre.

Early Life and Background

Liya was born in Lagos, Nigeria, into a Muslim family, where she developed an interest in music at an early age. Growing up in the vibrant city of Lagos, she was influenced by the rich diversity of sounds, from traditional African music to contemporary genres like Afrobeat and Afropop. Her passion for music started as a child, and she often participated in school performances and church choirs, where she honed her vocal skills.

Liya attended the University of Ilorin in Kwara State, where she studied Linguistics. During her time at university, she continued to pursue her music interests, performing at various school events and local shows. Her talent for singing and songwriting began to attract attention, and it became clear that she was destined for a career in music. After completing her university education, Liya decided to focus on music full-time, a decision that would soon pay off when she caught the attention of Davido.

Career Beginnings and Breakthrough

Liya's big break came in 2020 when she was discovered by Davido, one of the most influential artists in the African music scene. After hearing her music, Davido was impressed by her talent and quickly signed her to his record label, Davido Music Worldwide (DMW), making her the first female artist to join the label. This was a significant milestone, not only for Liya but also for DMW, as it marked the label’s commitment to promoting female talent in the Nigerian music industry.

Shortly after signing with DMW, Liya released her debut single, Melo, in December 2020. The song, which means "How Many?" in Yoruba, was an Afrobeat-infused track that showcased her vocal prowess and unique sound. Melo received positive reviews from fans and critics alike, with many praising her ability to blend traditional Afrobeat rhythms with modern sounds. The accompanying music video, directed by Dammy Twitch, also gained significant attention, further solidifying her presence in the Nigerian music scene.

Music Style and Influence

Liya's music is a fusion of Afrobeat, Afropop, and traditional African rhythms. Her sound is characterized by smooth, soulful vocals, catchy melodies, and rhythmic beats. While Afrobeat forms the core of her musical style, she also incorporates elements of other genres like R&B and soul, giving her music a modern and versatile appeal.

Liya has cited several artists as her musical influences, including Beyoncé, Tiwa Savage, and Asa. These influences are evident in her music, as she combines the empowering themes of these artists with the distinctive Afrobeat sound that has put Nigeria on the global music map. Her ability to connect emotionally with her audience through her lyrics and melodies has made her a standout artist in the Afrobeat genre.

Career Achievements

First Female Artist Signed to DMW: Liya’s signing to Davido Music Worldwide (DMW) in 2020 was a historic moment for her career. As the first female artist on the label, she has paved the way for other female musicians who aspire to make a mark in the Afrobeat industry. The signing not only boosted her career but also placed her in the spotlight, with the entire Afrobeat community watching her every move.

Debut Single - Melo (2020): Liya's debut single, Melo, was a major milestone in her career. Released under DMW, the song gained significant traction both in Nigeria and across Africa. Melo was a catchy Afrobeat track that showcased her unique vocal ability and set the stage for future releases. The song’s success helped introduce her to a wider audience and solidified her presence in the Nigerian music industry.

Debut EP - Alari (2021): In August 2021, Liya released her debut extended play (EP) titled Alari. The EP consisted of six tracks and included collaborations with Davido, her label boss. Alari, which means "She that is so separate" in Yoruba, was well-received by fans and critics. It further showcased Liya’s versatility and ability to blend different sounds, from the more traditional Afrobeat to R&B-infused tracks. The EP’s lead single, Adua, was a fan favorite, and her collaboration with Davido on the song Lakiriboto was also a standout track.

Critical Acclaim: Since her debut, Liya has gained recognition for her talent and potential. Her smooth voice, combined with her ability to create memorable melodies, has earned her praise within the Nigerian music industry. She has been recognized as one of the leading voices in the new generation of female Afrobeat artists, standing out for her distinctive sound and versatility.

Stage Performances and Collaborations: Liya has performed at several high-profile events and has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in Nigerian music. Her ability to hold her own in these settings has demonstrated her growth as an artist. She has also been involved in various collaborations, including her work with Davido on Lakiriboto, further cementing her place in the industry.

Net Worth

As of 2024, Liya’s estimated net worth is between $300,000 and $500,000. While she is still relatively new to the music industry, her signing to DMW and the success of her releases have contributed significantly to her growing wealth. Her income sources include music sales, streaming revenue, performances, and endorsement deals.

As her career progresses and she continues to release more music, it is expected that her net worth will continue to grow, especially with the backing of a label like DMW and her ever-expanding fan base.

Future Prospects

Liya’s future in the Nigerian and global music industry looks bright. With a distinctive voice, a unique sound, and the support of a strong label like DMW, she is well-positioned to achieve even greater success. As Afrobeat continues to gain international recognition, Liya has the potential to become one of the genre’s leading female voices on the global stage.

Fans can expect more singles, collaborations, and possibly a full-length album from Liya in the coming years. Her growth as an artist, both in terms of her sound and her performance skills, will likely continue to evolve, making her one to watch in the Afrobeat scene.

Conclusion

Liya’s journey from a young girl in Lagos to becoming the first female artist signed to DMW is a testament to her talent, hard work, and perseverance. With hit singles like Melo, a successful EP, and several high-profile performances under her belt, Liya has established herself as a rising star in the Afrobeat genre. As she continues to grow and evolve as an artist, there is no doubt that Liya’s influence in the Nigerian and global music scene will only increase.