Muis Ajao Oyindamola, better known by his stage name MUIS, is a rising star in Nigerian Afrobeats.
His latest single “Saati Ramoni” has brought him to the limelight and we journey from his early beginnings to his emergence on this week’s Artist Focus.
Hailing from Lagos, Nigeria, Muis is a multi-talented musician who can sing, write and play the violin.
Muis’s musical journey began at 11 when he auditioned for a talent show in his secondary school. It was during this time that he discovered his passion for music and picked up the violin.
For three years, Muis honed his violin skills and became an integral part of his school band. Together, they achieved notable success, securing second place twice in the prestigious Les Enfant Music Competition in 2013 and 2014.
In 2018, Muis decided to take his musical aspirations to the next level and embarked on a professional music career. This decision came during his third year of studying Medicine and Surgery at the University of Lagos.
Despite pursuing a demanding academic path, Muis was determined to follow his passion for music.
His debut single, “Vibe,” gained significant popularity within his school, earning him the affectionate nickname “Vibe man.” This initial success encouraged Muis to continue pursuing music alongside his studies.
His talent and dedication did not go unnoticed, as he signed a management deal with Chase Music in 2021, further solidifying his commitment to his music career.
One of the highlights of Muis’s journey was his inclusion in the extended playlist titled “The Chase EP.” Released in collaboration with Chase Music, the EP debuted at number one on the Apple Music Nigerian pop album charts, showcasing Muis’s growth.
Furthermore, his collaboration with Jinmi Abduls on the track “Want You” received recognition by being featured on the “Best Song Of The Week” playlist on Audiomack.
Muis’s breakthrough moment arrived with his hit song “Pon my mind,” which resonated strongly with his fans and earned praise from renowned Afrobeats journalist Joey Akan.
Recognising Muis’ talent and potential, Joey Akan described the song as “one of my hardest records so far this year” and commended the artist’s ability to deliver a unique and nostalgic sound.
Muis draws inspiration from several artists, including Michael Jackson, Usher, Chris Brown, Burna Boy, Style Plus, Wande Coal, Wizkid, and Davido. By blending elements from these influential figures, Muis has developed an experimental yet nostalgic sound that sets him apart in the AfroFusion genre.
With a clear vision, Muis aims to build his artistry and create a distinctive brand that resonates with his audience. He understands the value of social currency and seeks to increase his influence through his music.
Muis’ ultimate goal is to continue developing his artistry, cultivate a dedicated fan base, and propel his sound to new heights of popularity within Nigeria and on the global stage.
As Muis continues to make waves in the Nigerian music industry, he represents the bright future of Afrobeats and showcases the talent and versatility of young Nigerian artists. With his passion, dedication, and unique sound, Muis is poised to become one of the biggest Afrobeats exports, captivating audiences worldwide with his infectious music.
