Iyanya Onoyom Mbuk (born October 31, 1986), known by his mononym Iyanya, is a Nigerian recording artist, singer, songwriter, and performer best known for winning the 2008 MTN Project Fame West Africa as well as for his song “Kukere”. He is the co-owner of Made Men Music Group, a record label home to artists such as Emma Nyra, Tekno, Selebobo and Baci. Iyanya sings in English and Efik. He released his debut studio album, My Story, in 2011. It was supported by the singles “No Time” and “Love Truly”. Iyanya vs. Desire, his second studio album, contained the singles “Kukere”, “Ur Waist”, “Flavour”, “Sexy Mama”, and “Jombolo”. He won the Artist of the Year award at the 2013 The Headies.
Iyanya was born on Palm Street in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. His mother was a head mistress and his father was a forester. Iyanya has described his mother as the household disciplinarian, while his father was the gentler of the two. His parents died in 2008, his mother, 42 years-old, and his father, 50 years-old. Iyanya’s elder brother died around the same time of his parents’ death Iyanya’s grandfather was a clergyman. Iyanya used to sing in his church’s choir and was the choir master for the children’s choir at age 5. Iyanya completed his primary, secondary, and university education in Calabar. He is a Business Management graduate from the University of Calabar.
In 2008, KCee from KCee Presh group convinced Iyanya to partake in MTN’s first ever Project Fame singing competition. Iyanya emerged the winner of the competition after battling numerous people who had the same aspirations as him. The 2008 MTN Project Fame Competition was the beginning of Iyanya’s musical career. Unlike many people who dwindle after a major competition, Iyanya’s success had just begun.
List Of Songs Released
Le Kwa Ukwu
She Can Get It
My Room