By Moses Nosike
Nigerian-born Juju musician Sayo Ojofeitimi aka Mr Doxology has marked a major milestone in his career, celebrating 25 years on stage alongside his birthday, in a journey he describes as one defined by resilience, faith, and cultural pride.
Reflecting on his path in the music industry, the Canada-based artist revealed that his rise has been anything but easy. According to him, the journey has been “tough and strained,” shaped by heartbreak, betrayal, and professional challenges. Despite these setbacks, he credits divine intervention for his endurance and success, noting that his story remains one of gratitude and perseverance.
Sayo’s musical journey began at an early age when he joined his local church choir at just eight years old. As the youngest member, he quickly developed a passion for music, nurtured within the spiritual and communal environment of the church. A major influence during his formative years was his late uncle, Ajanaku Ojofeitimi, a professional musician and choir leader based in Ibadan. His live gospel band performances, which he frequently attended in Ilesa, played a pivotal role in shaping his interest in music.
His venture into professional music began in 2000 when he started performing live as the lead vocalist of Eternal Live Evangelical Ministries (ELEM). However, a turning point came following an undisclosed incident within the church, prompting him to chart a new course. This led to the formation of Alade Ogo Music, which initially started as a prayer group before evolving into a full musical outfit.
By 2007, after acquiring his own musical equipment and formally launching the group, Sayo began gaining recognition within his local community. This period marked the beginning of his steady rise in the music industry and eventually paved the way for his relocation to Canada.
Like many independent artists, he faced significant challenges while building his career. Limited access to quality musical equipment posed a major obstacle, with rented instruments often proving unreliable. In addition, he encountered intimidation from more experienced musicians and internal setbacks within his band. Nevertheless, he said these challenges ultimately strengthened his determination to succeed.
A defining moment in his career came in 2022 when he won the Best Band of the Year award at the Leads Award in Canada. The recognition, he noted, stands as one of his proudest achievements and a testament to years of dedication and hard work.
Now based in Toronto, Sayo has continued to promote Juju music while embracing his role as a cultural ambassador. He emphasized the importance of preserving Yoruba culture, even while living in the diaspora, describing it as a core part of his identity.
He also highlighted the strong support for African music within the Nigerian community in Canada, noting that audiences remain deeply connected to their roots despite living abroad. According to him, live performances continue to serve as a powerful link between culture and community.
Sayo observed that Juju music has evolved significantly over the past two decades. While earlier generations required extensive instrumental skills and faced numerous barriers, advancements in technology have made it easier for emerging artists to enter the industry. He pointed to social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube as key tools for promoting music and preserving cultural heritage on a global scale.
Toronto’s multicultural environment has also influenced his sound, exposing him to diverse genres including Afrobeats, reggae, gospel, and R&B. This blend of influences, he said, has enriched his music while allowing him to remain rooted in traditional Juju rhythms.
Beyond music, he has been actively involved in promoting African culture through initiatives such as the Ankara Festival in Canada. The event celebrates African fashion, music, and dance, while providing a platform for artists and fostering unity within the community.
As he celebrates his dual milestone, Sayo described the moment as deeply meaningful, offering an opportunity to reflect on his journey, appreciate his supporters, and reaffirm his purpose.
Looking ahead, he expressed a desire to leave a legacy centered on faith, family, and cultural promotion. He also encouraged young musicians to remain dedicated, believe in their talent, and stay connected to their cultural roots.
With new projects and events already in the pipeline, Sayo’s journey appears far from over, as he continues to inspire audiences and promote African heritage through music on the global stage.
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