Ayo Maff has quickly made his mark in the music scene within a year of going mainstream. But do you know all there is to know about the rising star?
Ayo Maff, born Ayorinde Mafoluku Ayodele, is one of the rising teenagers in Afrobeats, quickly establishing himself as one of Nigeria’s most captivating new voices. He blends Afrobeats, street pop, and raw storytelling into a distinctive sound that’s capturing attention across the industry. His breakout single, Dealer featuring Fireboy DML, showcased his depth and authenticity, marking his arrival in the industry. Raised in the heart of Lagos, Ayo Maff’s journey is one of struggle, hustle, and ambition—working odd jobs like tailoring and at a printing press before music became his path to success.
His songs, shaped by real-life experiences, resonate deeply with listeners, offering vivid portrayals of the streets, sacrifice, and relentless pursuit of dreams. In a genre where themes of wealth and success are often explored, Ayo Maff’s music aligns with tracks found in our Top Afrobeats Songs About Money, while also capturing the raw, emotional depth seen in our Top Depressing Afrobeats Songs. Both aspects of his storytelling—ambition and vulnerability—are at the core of his authenticity.
Here are 10 things you probably didn’t know about Ayo Maff.
1. His Stage Name Is a Clever Abbreviation of His Real Name
Ayo Maff didn’t just choose a random alias—his stage name is a sleek abbreviation of his full name, Ayorinde Mafoloku Ayodele. In an interview with Max FM, he shared how he crafted the name to keep a personal connection to his identity while making it more memorable for fans.
2. Ayo Maff Is Younger Than You Think
Despite his seasoned sound and street-savvy lyrics, Ayo Maff is only 19 years old. In interviews, he has mentioned that many assume he’s older due to the depth of his music. Born in 2006, his rapid rise in the industry is even more impressive given his age.
3. Before Music, Ayo Maff Learned Tailoring
Before dedicating himself to music, Ayo Maff explored other skills—including tailoring. At just 15, he began learning the craft but never completed his training. While tailoring was an option, music was always his true passion.
4. His High School Nickname Was “Omo Owo”
During his secondary school days, Ayo Maff was known as “Omo Owo,” a Yoruba phrase meaning “child of wealth.” The nickname reflected his reputation among classmates, though whether it was due to his style, confidence, or actual wealth remains a mystery.
5. His First Paying Job Was at a Printing Press
Before stepping into the spotlight, Ayo Maff earned his first paycheck working at a printing press, collating papers for a daily wage. It was just one of several side hustles he took on to make ends meet, but deep down, he always knew music was his true calling.
6. Ayo Maff “Left Home to Feed Home” at Just 15
Ayo Maff’s song 8 Days offers a glimpse into his reality—leaving home at just 15 to hustle and provide for his family. Growing up watching his mother and four siblings struggle pushed him to take risks, even venturing into cyber fraud (yahoo yahoo), a harsh reality for many seeking a way out of poverty in Nigeria.
7. He Lost His Dad at a Tender Age
Ayo Maff faced hardship early in life, losing his father at a young age. This loss played a significant role in shaping his resilience and drive, pushing him to take on responsibilities beyond his years to support his family.
8. Ayo Maff is an Introvert
Despite his bold presence in music, Ayo Maff is naturally reserved. In an interview with Max FM, he revealed that he prefers solitude, often spending time indoors or with a tight-knit circle of friends. While his lyrics speak loudly, he’s most comfortable away from the spotlight.
9. His Love for Bandanas is a Tribute to His Street Roots
Ayo Maff’s signature bandana isn’t just a fashion choice—it’s a nod to his upbringing in the streets of Bariga. He sees it as a symbol of resilience and identity, a constant reminder of where he came from. Whether in music videos, performances, or public appearances, he’s often draped in bandanas of various colors, making them an unmistakable part of his style.
10. His First Trip Abroad Was to Perform at London’s O2 Arena
For many artists, performing at the O2 Arena is a dream come true, and for Ayo Maff, it marked his first trip outside Nigeria. In September 2024, he shared the stage with Asake during his second O2 Arena concert—after Asake’s first 02 Arena concert in 2023. Ayo Maff described the experience as surreal, never imagining such an opportunity would come so soon.
