DI’JA : A VISUAL ART OF BEAUTY AND TALENT

Di’Ja, whose full name is Hadiza Blell-Olo, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and visual artist. Her multicultural background has influenced her music, which blends different genres and cultural elements.

She started her music career in 2008 but gained prominence after signing with Mavin Records in 2014, one of Nigeria’s top record labels. Her debut single under the label, “Yaro”, it infuses Hausa and Krio dialects in honour of her Nigerian and Sierra Leonean roots, the song garnered attention and introduced her unique sound to a wider audience. She quickly established herself as a talented artist with her distinct blend of Afro-pop, R&B, and reggae influences.

Her breakthrough came with the release of the hit single “Awww” in 2014, which became a chart-topper in Nigeria and across Africa. The song showcased Di’Ja’s soulful vocals and relatable lyrics, and it earned her several award nominations, including the Nigeria Entertainment Award for Best Collabo.

Since then, Di’Ja has released a string of successful singles, including “Rock Steady”, “Adaobi” (ft Marvins), “Take Kiss”, “Air”, “Omotena”. She recently released an 8-track EP entitled “Aphropop Vol.2” ft Portable, Lyandra, and Tonye. Her music often reflects her personal experiences and addresses social issues, love, and empowerment. Her versatility as an artist allows her to experiment with different sounds and collaborate with artists from various genres.

In addition to her music career, Di’Ja is also involved in visual arts. She studied Fine Arts at the University of Jos in Nigeria and has showcased her artwork at exhibitions. Her passion for visual arts and storytelling often manifests in her music videos, which are visually captivating and thought-provoking.

Di’Ja’s contributions to the Nigerian music industry have earned her recognition and accolades. She has been nominated for several awards, including The Headies, All-Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), Nigerian Entertainment Awards, Beat Music Awards, and many others. Her talent and unique style have made her a favourite among fans of Nigerian music, both at home and internationally.

Outside of her musical endeavours, Di’Ja is known for her humanitarian work. She is involved in various charitable initiatives, focusing on education, health, and the empowerment of women and children in Nigeria.

Di’ja was born on August 14, 1989, in Kaduna, Nigeria, to a Sierra Leonean father and a Nigerian mother. She earned a joint degree in Biology and Psychology, and she also earned two degrees from different universities in the United State of America.

Di’Ja continues to create music, collaborate with other artists, and use her platform to promote positive change. Her artistry, versatility, and commitment to making a difference have solidified her as one of Nigeria’s notable music acts.

Delia Nyadi