Iyanya

**Iyanya** (born Iyanya Onoyom Mbuk on October 31, 1986, in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria) is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and performer who is a prominent figure in the Afropop, Afrobeats, and R\&B genres. He gained initial recognition as the winner of the first season of the reality TV music competition, *Project Fame West Africa*. **Early Life and Education** Iyanya was born and raised in Calabar, where his father worked as a forester and his mother as a headmistress. His childhood included involvement in music, beginning at the age of five when he started leading the children's choir at his grandfather's church and eventually joined the main choir. Mbuk completed his primary, secondary, and university education in Calabar, graduating with a degree in Business Management from the University of Calabar. Prior to achieving fame, he worked in a hotel and honed his performance skills by singing karaoke at local establishments like Fiesta Fries Bar, Mirage Nite Club, and West-Life. Initially, he pursued music as a rapper under the stage name Lofty. **Career Progression** Iyanya’s professional career breakthrough came in 2008 when he was convinced by fellow artist KCee to audition for the maiden season of *Project Fame West Africa*, which he ultimately won. Following his victory, he released his debut studio album, *My Story*, in October 2009, featuring singles such as "No Time" and "Love Truly." A significant turning point in his career occurred in 2011 when he co-founded the record label Made Men Music Group (MMMG) alongside Ubi Franklin. Under MMMG, Iyanya released his second studio album, *Desire*, in 2013, which spawned the massively successful international hit "Kukere." The song popularized the Etighi dance and cemented his status as a major artist. He subsequently released his third studio album, *Applaudise*, in 2015. In 2016, Iyanya announced his departure from Made Men Music Group. He signed a management deal with Temple Management Company and later signed a record deal with Mavin Records, which he eventually left. **Major Achievements and Notable Works** Iyanya is celebrated for successfully blending Afropop, Afrobeats, and R\&B into his music. His major hits include "Kukere," "Ur Waist," and "Le Kwa Ukwu." His albums include *My Story* (2009), *Desire* (2013), and *Applaudise* (2015). Throughout his career, Iyanya has received several accolades, including: * **The Headies:** Best Pop Single (2012) for "Kukere," and Artist of the Year (2013). * **City People Entertainment Awards:** Musician of the Year (Male) (2013). * **Ghana Music Awards:** African Artiste of the Year (2013).**Current Status** Iyanya continues to be active in the Nigerian music industry, operating under his own independent ventures and management. He has continued to release music, including his fourth and fifth studio albums, *Once Upon a Cat* (2024) and *The Forester’s Son* (2025).