"I was warned playing talking drum might affect my fertility" - Ara

Aralola Olamuyiwa, widely known as Ara, the renowned talking drummer and cultural ambassador for the Ooni of Ife, has shared her experiences of overcoming discouragement to pursue her passion for the talking drum.

As Africa’s first female talking drummer, Ara revealed that she was warned playing the drum might affect her ability to have children.

In the latest episode of the ‘Terms And Conditions’ podcast, she discussed her journey:

“There are certain drums women are traditionally not allowed to play. I began with traditional drums but gradually expanded to instruments like the bass guitar, keyboard, and set drums. Eventually, I wanted to explore something unique, which led me to the talking drum. Initially, people were hesitant to teach me because of my gender, so I taught myself.”

Ara admitted feeling fearful at times due to the cultural warnings,

“They said I might not be able to have kids, but I defied that belief.”

She has since had a son with her estranged husband, Prince Nurudeen Olalekan Saliu.