Inetimi Alfred Odon (born 15 August 1980), known by his stage name Timaya, is a Nigerian singer-songwriter. He is from Sampou, Bayelsa State, Nigeria.Timaya is known for combining Nigerian pop with elements of dancehall, hip-hop and soca, as well as Afro-Caribbean/Dancehall music. He is the founder of DM (Dem Mama) Records Limited.
Timaya's solo career began in 2005 with the release of the single "Dem Mama," which is about the Odi massacre. His debut album, True Story, was released the following year, and his second album, Gift and Grace, was released in 2008. His third studio album, De Rebirth, was released in collaboration with Black Body Entertainment and featured the single "Plantain Boy". He collaborated with Dem Mama Soldiers on the album LLNP (Long Life N Prosperity), released in 2011. In 2012, Timaya released Upgrade. To date, his work has earned him four Headies Awards, two AFRIMMA Awards, one Nigeria Music Award, and one NEA Award.
Early life
Inetimi Alfred Odon was born on 15 August 1980, in Port Harcourt City, Rivers State, Nigeria. He grew up as the youngest of 15 children in a large family. His father worked as a banker, while his mother was a trader. For his early education, Timaya attended Assemblies of God Nursery and Primary School.
