Marvelous Ojo Obanijesu, professionally known as Bela., the creator, was born as the first child of Olumuyiwa and Olukemi Ojo.
He was raised in Ibadan, Nigeria, in a family that placed high value on education and creativity. Growing up with siblings Covenant, Holiness, and Purity, Bela. naturally assumed the role of a leader from an early age. Encouraged by his parents’ unwavering support, he gained the confidence to explore his artistic interests and chart a path that goes beyond conventional expectations.
Education
Bela. attended Miracle International Nursery and Primary School, Ibadan, before moving on to Living Miracle High School. His passion for literature and performance was evident from a young age, which eventually led him to study English and Literary Studies at Anchor University, Lagos, graduating in 2024. In 2025, he began his NYSC year, initially posted to Kaduna, but redeployed to Ogun State, balancing national service with music and fashion work.
Musical Career
Beginnings
Bela.’s musical instincts came alive in adolescence, often experimenting with lyrics, rhythms, and raw performance. Those formative years in Ibadan shaped his creative depth, which later sharpened in Lagos’ fast-paced environment. As he often says, his growth has been both personal and collaborative, especially with Oluwarominiyi Owolabi, known professionally as Rómi, a close creative partner with whom he has crafted much of his catalog.
Releases and Growth
Bela.’s breakthrough came in December 2024 with the joint mixtape “Lagos & IB.” created with Rómi. The project bridged two energies, with Rómi representing Lagos’ restless drive and Bela. embodying Ibadan’s rooted soul. Its success led to a deluxe edition in 2025, further cementing their synergy.
In July 2025, Bela. and Rómi released “Songs That’ll Never Drop”, a surprise 10-track project that resonated with fans for its intimacy and refusal to play by industry rules.
On August 25, 2025, Bela. appeared as a collaborative act on “PRE$$URE” with JaceBen, a single that amassed 5,000 streams in its first 4 days, marking another significant milestone.
Beyond these highlights, Bela. has collaborated with peers including Davzee, J.T.R, Bambe, and Babsss (formerly known as Loverboy XO). These partnerships reflect his commitment to building with artists who share his vision of authentic expression.
Artistic Style and Influences
Bela. is more than just a performer; he is also a songwriter who loves hearing others voice out his words. His creativity often shines brightest in songwriting, where his ability to morph into different styles allows him to write for diverse voices and sounds. His music sits at the intersection of Afrobeats and Alternative Afrobeats, with deliberate experimentation. His English degree influences his songwriting, which is layered, poetic, and emotionally sharp. His sonic choices reflect admiration for artists like Fireboy DML (for lyricism), Burna Boy (for reinvention and depth), and Ye (for artistic risk-taking). He is uninterested in chasing algorithms; instead, he crafts songs for listeners who want to feel part of his evolving family.
Collaborations and Notable Partnerships
One of the most defining moments of Bela.’s journey came in December 2024, when he joined Tiwa Savage on Instagram Live. After an impromptu performance, Tiwa praised him with the words “You made my day” and gifted him ₦1 million. The exchange, which lasted nearly half an hour, also drew in prominent acts like Poco Lee, solidifying Bela.’s presence as an artist to watch.
Other Creative Pursuits and Interests
Bela. is also a creative director who has overseen music videos, visual content, and projects that stretch beyond Nigeria, shaping stories through a global lens. Alongside music, he is deeply involved in fashion. His Alté-inspired aesthetic blends streetwear with bold experimentation. He collaborated with ANTGN, a fashion label owned by Rómi, and even co-designed their debut release. He is currently developing his own brand, Blox., a project that reflects his vision for blending style with storytelling.
Personal Life
Now in his early twenties, Bela. balances artistry with service during his NYSC year. He remains closely connected to his family while carving a life between Ibadan and Lagos. His audience sees him not just as a performer but as Bela., the creator, a figure committed to building a creative universe across music, fashion, writing, and culture.
Discography (Selected)
• Lagos & IB. – Mixtape (Dec 2024) [Joint with Rómi]
• Lagos & IB. (Deluxe Edition) (2025) [Joint with Rómi]
• Songs That’ll Never Drop – Project (July 13, 2025) [Joint with Rómi]
• PRE$$URE – Single (with JaceBen) (Aug 25, 2025)
Media Coverage and Public Image
Bela. has been covered in multiple lifestyle and music outlets as an emerging force in Nigeria’s Alté and Afrobeats scene. His mix of music, fashion, songwriting, and collaborative ethos sets him apart as an artist who values community over competition. His online presence, especially through @thatbela on Instagram and X (Twitter), is an extension of his creative identity, where music and fashion meet.
Future Prospects
With upcoming projects like “This Might Confuse You” (slated for late 2025) and continued collaborations with Rómi, Bela. is positioned as one of the most compelling young voices pushing Nigerian music and style forward.
