Behind every successful artist is a manager who brings their vision to life, and for Tems and Omah Lay, that person is Muyiwa Awoniyi.
The music industry thrives not only on talent but also on the strategic minds working tirelessly behind the scenes. Behind every successful artist is a team dedicated to bringing their vision to life.
One such force is Muyiwa Awoniyi, better known as Donawon—a visionary talent manager and music executive whose sharp business acumen and strategic insight continue to shape the industry.
From managing global stars to launching initiatives that support independent artists, here are 10 interesting facts about him:
1. He Runs an Independent Talent Management Agency
He is the founder of BSB Agency, an independent talent management firm overseeing some of Nigeria’s biggest artists, including Tems and Omah Lay. His agency focuses on artist development, branding, and the business side of music.
2. He Once Considered a Career in Banking
Before finding his true calling in the music industry, he nearly pursued a career in finance and banking. However, his passion for music led him down a different path, where he has since made a lasting impact
3. He Launched Faceless Distribution to Support Independent Artists
Recognizing the struggles of independent musicians, he founded Faceless Distribution, a platform that provides artists with tools and opportunities to distribute their music effectively.
4. He Made TurnTable’s List of Nigeria’s Top 30 Music Executives
In December 2022, his contributions to the music industry earned him a spot on TurnTable’s Power List, which highlights the most influential music executives in Nigeria.
5. He Had a Background in Video Production
Before stepping into talent management, he initially worked in video production. His creative background has influenced his approach to branding and storytelling in the music business.
6. Tems Personally Asked Him to Be Her Manager
His journey with Tems started with a long conversation about music and artistic integrity. After months of building a friendship, Tems eventually asked him to manage her—a decision that helped shape her rise to global stardom.
7. He Founded an Initiative to Educate Upcoming Music Professionals
In 2023, he launched Insights by Muyiwa Awoniyi, an initiative designed to provide industry knowledge through panel discussions, networking sessions, and mentorship for aspiring music executives, A&Rs, and creatives.
8. He Previously Managed Nonso Amadi
Before working with Tems and Omah Lay, he was instrumental in the early career of Nonso Amadi, managing the R&B star during the success of his hit song Tonight.
9. He Hosted a Podcast Featuring Top Industry Names
From 2020 to 2022, he hosted The Donawon Pod, engaging music industry insiders and artists like Naeto C, Sarz, and Oxlade in insightful conversations on topics ranging from intellectual property to mental health.
10. He Was Arrested in Uganda in 2020
In 2020, he was arrested in Uganda alongside Tems and Omah Lay for allegedly violating COVID-19 restrictions after a performance. Their brief detention sparked a social media outcry, leading to their release after two days and a later apology from the Ugandan government.
