Fast-rising Nigerian artist Ayo Maff has credited Fireboy DML for playing a pivotal role in his breakout moment. In a recent interview on Trending, Ayo Maff opened up about how featuring Fireboy on the remix of his hit single Dealer became a major turning point in his career.
“Without Fireboy, there will be no Ayo Maff because he gave me that thing I want. So thank God and thank you to Fireboy,” he said, expressing deep gratitude for the collaboration. The remix of Dealer not only skyrocketed in popularity but also became the biggest song on Spotify Nigeria in 2024.
Since then, Ayo Maff has enjoyed a rapid rise to mainstream fame, earning a spot as one of the key new voices shaping the future of Nigerian street pop. His music draws from raw, lived experiences, tackling themes like police brutality, poverty, and survival in tough environments.
Ayo Maff revealed that he never expected Fireboy to jump on the track, and the collaboration came as a complete surprise. But that unexpected feature proved to be the game-changer that earned him industry recognition and a nomination for the coveted Headies Next Rated award.
He also spoke about his surreal experience performing at London’s O2 Arena, where he opened for Afrobeats superstar Asake. According to him, it was a moment he had envisioned long before it became a reality.
Now named one of Spotify’s emerging artists to watch in 2025, Ayo Maff is preparing to release his debut project titled The Prince of The Street, an album expected to further cement his place in the fast-evolving landscape of Nigerian street music.
You can catch his full interview on Trending for more on his journey, dreams, and what comes next.
