Early Life and Family Background
Opeyemi Babatunde Rahim, professionally known as Lyta, was born on July 4, 1998, in Ajegunle, Lagos State, Nigeria. He hails from Kwara State and was raised in a Muslim household. Growing up in the vibrant and culturally rich environment of Ajegunle, Lyta developed an early interest in music. He participated in “Ile Kewu,” a music group at his local mosque, where he honed his vocal skills and performance abilities.
Education
Details about Lyta’s formal education are not extensively documented. However, his active involvement in local music groups during his formative years suggests a balance between his educational pursuits and his passion for music.
Music Career Trajectory
Initial Breakthrough with YBNL Nation
Lyta’s professional music career took a significant leap forward when he signed with YBNL Nation, a record label founded by Nigerian rapper Olamide, on February 3, 2018. His debut single under the label, “Time,” featuring Olamide, was released on February 14, 2018. The song received positive reviews and marked his entry into the Nigerian music scene.
Departure from YBNL Nation
In 2019, Lyta departed from YBNL Nation due to contractual and personal disagreements. He revealed that he did not have a formal contract with the label and felt misunderstood by Olamide. This period was challenging for Lyta, as he expressed feelings of depression and uncertainty about his career’s direction.
Collaboration with Doro Musik Gang and “Monalisa”
Following his exit from YBNL Nation, Lyta signed with Doro Musik Gang. On July 12, 2019, he released the single “Monalisa,” produced by Killertunes. The song gained significant attention, and its music video garnered over 500,000 views within a month of its release. Impressed by the track, Nigerian superstar Davido collaborated with Lyta for an official remix, further boosting Lyta’s prominence in the industry.
Association with Marlian Records
In 2020, Lyta joined Marlian Records, a label owned by Nigerian artist Naira Marley. Under this imprint, he released the single “Hold Me Down (Omo Gidi)” on August 14, 2020. The accompanying music video drew attention for its striking resemblance to K-pop group GOT7’s “Just Right,” leading to accusations of plagiarism. Lyta and his team addressed the controversy by acknowledging the inspiration drawn from K-pop visuals.
Major Influences
Lyta’s musical style is deeply rooted in Afrobeats and pop, reflecting the rich musical heritage of Nigeria. His early involvement with “Ile Kewu” at his local mosque suggests an influence of traditional and religious music, which he has adeptly fused with contemporary sounds to create his unique style.
Significant Contributions to the Entertainment Industry
Lyta has made notable contributions to the Nigerian music scene through his melodious tracks and collaborations with prominent artists. His songs, characterized by catchy hooks and relatable lyrics, have resonated with a broad audience, further enriching the Afrobeats genre.
Controversies and Challenges
Throughout his career, Lyta has faced several challenges:
- Departure from YBNL Nation: His exit from YBNL Nation was accompanied by public disagreements and feelings of being misunderstood, leading to a temporary period of depression.
- Plagiarism Accusations: The music video for “Hold Me Down (Omo Gidi)” faced criticism for its similarities to GOT7’s “Just Right,” sparking discussions on originality in artistic expressions.
- Personal Life Disputes: Lyta’s relationship with his child’s mother, Kemi Ayorinde, has been tumultuous. She publicly accused him of not fulfilling his financial responsibilities towards their son, leading to social media confrontations.
Personal Life
Lyta is a father to a son named Aari, born in 2020. His relationship with Aari’s mother, Kemi Ayorinde, has been in the public eye due to their disputes over co-parenting responsibilities. Despite these challenges, Lyta has expressed his commitment to personal growth and being present in his son’s life.
Discography
Extended Plays (EPs)
- Id (2019): A 5-track debut EP showcasing Lyta’s versatility and lyrical prowess.
Selected Singles
- “Time” featuring Olamide (2018)
- “Monalisa” (2019)
- “Monalisa Remix” featuring Davido (2019)
- “Worry” (2019)
- “Hold Me Down (Omo Gidi)” (2020)
Awards and Nominations
In 2019, Lyta received several nominations:
- The Headies: Nominated for Next Rated and Best Street-Hop Artiste.
- City People Music Awards: Nominated for Most Promising Act of the
