Ayo

Biography

Joy Olasunmibo Ogunmakin, better known by her stage name Ayọ, was born on September 14, 1980, in Frechen, Germany. This talented singer, songwriter, and actress has garnered international acclaim for her unique blend of musical styles. Ayọ’s debut album, *Joyful*, launched in 2006, achieved remarkable success, earning Double-Platinum status in France and Platinum in Germany and Poland, along with Gold certifications in Switzerland, Italy, and Greece. The album's U.S. release followed on November 20, 2007, under Interscope Records.

Ayọ’s early life was marked by challenges; she was the fourth child of a Nigerian father and a German-Sinti mother. Following her parents' divorce and her mother's struggles with addiction, she spent time in foster care and a children’s home, where she cultivated her musical talents by learning violin and piano. At 15, she penned her first song, using music as an outlet for her tumultuous childhood experiences.

In her twenties, Ayọ moved to London, then Paris, where her artistry began to shine. She opened for notable soul artists like Omar and Cody Chesnutt and eventually signed with Polydor Records.

In 2009, she was appointed a patron of UNICEF by then-president Jacques Hintzy, advocating for children's right to education. That same year, a documentary titled *Ayo Joy* chronicling her life was produced by MK2. Ayọ currently resides in Brooklyn, New York, with her two children, Nile and Billie-Eve.