Ayo Maff (b. 2005) is a Lagos-born, Empire-backed Afrobeats artist whose street-centric authenticity resonates with youth and everyday hustlers.
From early singles to a platinum collaboration with Fireboy DML, a powerful EP (Maffian), and his debut album (Prince of the Street), he’s crafting a modern legend rooted in street poetry and global ambition.
Ayo Maff Biography
Ayorinde Mafoluku Ayodele (born July 18, 2005), professionally known as Ayo Maff and styled as the Prince of the Street, is a Nigerian singer-songwriter celebrated for raw storytelling and a unique blend of Afrobeats, dancehall, and street-pop.
His rise from Somolu’s Bariga neighborhood to mainstream fame marks him as one of Gen‑Z’s most authentic voices in Afro-fusion music.
Early Life & Education
The Prince of the Street was born and raised in Somolu, Bariga, Lagos State, Ayo Maff spent his childhood immersed in the vibrant culture of the township. He attended local schools, where exposure to community hardships shaped his artistry.
In interviews, Maff recalls leaving home at around 15, juggling odd jobs like tailoring and working at a printing press to support his family; a theme of survival that floods his music.
Musical Career
Debut & Early Releases (2023–2024)
His artistic journey officially began in 2023 with the single “Jama Jama”, a gritty street anthem that quickly resonated online and charted on Apple Music and Shazam Nigeria. In January 2024, he followed up with a two-track project, STREET ANTHEM / 7 DAYS, the latter addressing police brutality and street survival.
Breakthrough with “Dealer”
The big breakthrough came with “Dealer” (2024), featuring Fireboy DML, whose industry support and funding for the music video helped catapult the track to the top of Nigerian charts. Within months, the video surpassed 2.5 million YouTube views and earned praise and co-signs from artists like Davido and Olamide.
Debut EP: ‘Maffian’ (Aug 2024)
He released his debut EP, Maffian, on August 15, 2024, through Empire Distribution. The seven-track body of work featuring songs like “A Beautiful Song,” “Last Week,” and “Are You There?” explores themes of mortality, ambition, resilience, and street ambition, cementing his artistic identity.
Debut Album: ‘Prince of the Street’ (June 2025)
On June 26, 2025, Ayo Maff released his debut studio album, Prince of the Street. The 13-track LP features high-profile collaborators such as Chike, BNXN, Seyi Vibez, Jazzworx, and Thukuthela.
With stand-out singles “Lazy Baby” and “Panic,” the album showcases his growth in blending Afrobeats, Amapiano, and highlife with vivid street storytelling.
Style, Influence & Recognition
Ayo Maff’s music is defined by authentic storytelling, fusing Afrobeats, dancehall, Yoruba slang, and Yoruba-English wordplay.
Though young, critics like Naijashimadun see him as one of the most compelling voices in street-pop. His Maffian EP was hailed as a “Rookie of the Year” contender, praised for its honesty and versatility.
He earned a nomination at The Headies 2024 for Best Street-Hop Artiste with “Dealer”.
Net Worth & Label Affiliation
Signed to Empire Distribution in 2024, Ayo Maff’s estimated net worth stands around $150k–$300k as of mid‑2025 earning from streaming, digital sales, performances, and sync placements.
He has built a significant social media presence, including over 1.8M monthly Spotify listeners as of June, 2025.
Personal Life & Relationships
Currently unmarried and with no public record of long-term relationships, Ayo Maff keeps his personal life private. His lyrics touch on social struggles tied to his upbringing, including coping with the early loss of his father; a reshaping influence in his streetwise perspective.
Ayodele is known for his hunger to grow, he shared in Punch News his ambition to collaborate internationally with artists like Justin Bieber, SZA, or BTS emphasizing he’s driven by aspiration, not comfort.
Cultural Impact & Future Outlook
In just two years, Ayo Maff has transformed from a teenager hustling in Bariga to a breakout Afrobeats star.
He brings a fresh, candid voice to the Nigerian music landscape, and with his debut album out, international co-signs, and global ambitions firmly in his vision, he’s positioned for major growth in 2025 and beyond.
