Bella Shmurda

**Bella Shmurda** (born Abiola Ahmed Akinbiyi on January 27, 1996) is a prominent Nigerian singer, songwriter, and recording artist. He is recognized as a leading voice in the Afrobeats and Street Pop genres, known for his distinctive blend of conscious lyrics and energetic vocal delivery.Early Life and Education Abiola Ahmed Akinbiyi was born and raised in Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria. His musical journey began during his time as a student, where he started developing his sound. He attended Lagos State University (LASU), furthering his education while simultaneously pursuing his burgeoning music career.Career Progression and Achievements Bella Shmurda officially began his professional music career around 2017. He gained significant national recognition in 2019 following the release of his breakthrough single, "Vision 2020." The song's success was amplified by a follow-up remix featuring Nigerian music superstar Olamide. This exposure firmly established him in the Nigerian music scene and led to his signing with the record label Dangbana Republik, where he also serves as a community leader for a collective of creatives. His style is characterized by a blend of Afrobeats, Street Pop, Afro-fusion, and World music, often reflecting on societal issues and personal struggles. His rapid ascent is attributed to his prolific output and ability to connect with a large youth audience through authentic storytelling.Notable Works Bella Shmurda’s discography includes several notable EPs and singles. His debut EP, *High Tension*, was released in 2020, followed by *High Tension 2.0* in 2021, showcasing his growth as an artist. Key notable singles that have defined his career include: * "Vision 2020" (2019) * "Cash App" (2020) * "Triumphant" (featuring Olamide) (2020) * "Rush" (2021)Current Status Bella Shmurda remains one of Nigeria's most influential contemporary artists, consistently releasing music and collaborating with other prominent figures in the African music industry. He continues to operate under the Dangbana Republik imprint, focusing on expanding his global reach within the Afrobeats and Afropop movements. His work often transcends mere entertainment, using his platform to address community issues, maintaining his status as a key figure in modern Nigerian street culture and music.