Modola – Nigerian artist carving her path with distinctive sound

By Iyoha Harrison

The last few months have been a rollercoaster for 20-year-old Modola. A freestyle she posted on TikTok while freestyling in 2024 has thrown her into the spotlight. Having premiered the music video for her debut single “Talk” a few months ago, Modola has raked in over a million streams, and counting.

Modola may be soft-spoken, but she’s direct when talking about her music. She speaks with unwavering resolve about making her dream a reality, doing everything within her power to bring to life the vision she’s carried with her since childhood.

Born Temidola “Modola” Awosika and also known as sheismodla during her TikTok days, she has undergone a remarkable transformation in her music career. Modola’s journey into the music industry began unexpectedly. In 2020, she enrolled in music classes in Milan to hone her vocal skills.

However, her path unexpectedly shifted when she found herself working as a dancer and stage actress in plays. Despite this early exposure to the entertainment world, pursuing music professionally wasn’t yet on her radar. That changed in late 2024 when she posted a freestyle on TikTok that went viral, sparking the drive to take her music career to the next level. Aside from growing up in Milan, Modola was also involved in the dance community in Milan from an early age. She performed in a musical theater program where she learned tap, ballet, and also how to speak multiple languages. She acted and danced for years, due to his excellent dancing skills and involvement in competitions. She was constantly traveling, but she is originally from Ogun State, Nigeria.

Her transition from TikTok freestyles to becoming “Modola,” a chart-topping artist, was far from easy. It involved uncovering her distinct sound, defining her artistic identity, and committing to countless hours of solo practice and self-discovery. This period of growth reflected her dedication to refining her craft. As her music began to gain traction, Modola’s international presence expanded, with her sound resonating strongly in places like Tanzania and Kenya, blending infectious rhythms with heartfelt lyrics that embody her unique artistry. The name “Modola” is more than a stage name; it’s a creative fusion of her musical identity and her given name, Temidola, symbolizing the seamless link between her artistry and her roots.

Her first official single, “Talk,” released in 2025, was a turning point in her career. It showcased her versatility and vocal range, challenging the perception that she was solely a laid-back songstress. Before Talk, she had released some freestyles and covers of notable singles.

Modola’s breakout hit ”Talk” achieved remarkable success since its release early this year, topping multiple charts, earning her performances, and receiving recognition at major music award shows.

In addition to its chart success, “New Light” has achieved remarkable feats on other platforms. The project recently crossed over 2.2 million streams globally within a few days of its release, a feat attributed to its widespread appeal and the curiosity it has sparked among listeners.

In 2024, Modola took a bold step in her career by signing a recording deal with PG Records and Base World Entertainment, a label that offers a safe space for creative-minded artists who have what it takes. The label has empowered countless creatives to find their voice and accept their true selves.

Modola’s rise is part of a larger trend of Nigerian artists gaining international recognition, further solidifying Afrobeats as a dominant force in the global music industry. As “Modola” continues to climb charts and captivate audiences, Modola’s trajectory suggests a promising future ahead. Her music is rooted in percussive Afropop rhythms, transformed from extended minutes of dance tracks into catchy, radio-friendly songs. While R&B forms a key part of her sound, she also weaves in elements of house and dancehall.

For fans and new listeners alike, “New Light” is available on all major streaming platforms. Its success underscores the global resonance of Nigerian music and the universal language of compelling storytelling through song.