The household name “TY Bello” is a force to reckon with by first, every Nigerian, and also internationally. If you’re also like me, I got to know this woman that’s a beacon of hope with her song titled “Greenland” in 2008. But not too fast, we will talk about the song later on. Let’s get to know who TY Bello is.
Toyin Sokefun-Bello, which is TY Bello for short, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, photographer and philanthropist. TY was born in Ogun State, Nigeria. She attained a degree in Economics from the University of Lagos, and briefly practiced journalism before venturing into photography.
TY emerged onto Nigeria’s musical landscape as a member of the defunct group called KUSH, an acronym for Kinetically Ushering Salvation into Hearts and Homes. Other members of the group included Lara George, Dapo Torimiro and rapper Emem Ema. Kush gained popularity in the early 2000s with the single “Let’s Live Together”, and released an album before disbanding.
It was in 2008 that TY Bello released her debut studio album Greenland. It earned her an award at both the Nigeria Music Awards and Sound City Award. The lyrical contents of the album explores themes of love, family, and nation. Its title track becomes an inspirational song written to motivate Nigerians to liberate themselves from a place of despair to a place of hope.
Till date, the weight and sound of this timeless piece, still has its initial effect on people. Her ability to also infuse her faith in a song that pertains to the nation is also noteworthy. You should quickly peep into part of the lyrics again:
“I see it now, I understand, I know
So I embrace it
Dance once again it’s time for me to grow
For every prayer and everything I’ve sown
The Lord of the harvest knows
I’m reaping joy a hundred-fold
The land is green, it’s green, oh-oh
The land is green, it’s green, can’t you see?
The harvest is ready
‘Cause the Lord of the harvest told me so
It’s green, it’s green for me.”
Watch The story behind the song Green Land here
Other albums of TY Bello (that you should know about) which are both vast and impactful:
The Future (2011): A call to action, inspiring listeners to envision a brighter tomorrow.
The Morning Songbook (2014): Released on the same day she welcomed her twin boys, this album is a blend of personal joy and musical exploration, a journey of faith and perseverance.
Africa Awake (2020): A celebration of African heritage and unity.
We Are Fire (2022): A collaborative project igniting spiritual fervor.
Heaven Has Come (2023): A 20-track masterpiece featuring collaborations with gospel heavyweights like Tope Alabi and Dunsin Oyekan.
Other awards she has received are: Best Female Video for “Ekundayo” at the SoundCity Music Video Awards (2009); Honored in the “RedHot” documentary series by Communication For Change (2011).
Beyond music, TY Bello is a celebrated photographer. Her portraits are not just images; they’re stories captured in a frame. She’s had the honor of photographing three sitting Nigerian Presidents and numerous celebrities, showcasing her ability to connect with subjects on a profound level. Her work with the photography collective, Depth of Field, further cements her status in the visual arts realm.
TY’s compassion extends beyond the arts. She founded “Link-a-Child,” an NGO spotlighting orphanages in Nigeria and seeking sponsorships on their behalf. Her annual photography exhibitions raise funds for these causes, blending her artistic talents with philanthropy.
In essence, TY Bello is more than an artist; she’s a storyteller, a visionary, and a beacon of hope. Her journey inspires many, reminding us that with passion and purpose, we can touch lives and make a difference.
Can you celebrate the household name called TY Bello?!
In the comment section, let her get to read how her life, faith, and work has inspired you.
