This young lady is not only talented, she’s got the passion to push through and be reckoned with. I could attest to this because of how persistent she was for weeks to make me listen to her music, which by the way was beautiful. She also made sure I put out an editorial on her, which was rightly deserved. Her latest single tiled ‘Irin Ajo’ (The Journey) is gradually gaining momentum despite her still shuffling with schooling. As a 400 level student of University of Benin studying Political Science, she started music professionally as a backup singer for a band before deciding to go solo to release her debut single ‘Cold World’ in 2013. Okal is putting in the shift; she will be reckoned with very soon.

“Okal means Omobosola Karimat Alaka. I’ve been making use of the nickname since Primary School. I am from Oyo State Ibadan to be precise. I was given birth to in Ogun State but have lived in Lagos all my Life. I am the 3rd born in my family and the only girl. I started music in 2012 and also started learning how to play the guitar. My genre of music can be described as Afro Soul Highlife inspired by the likes of Orlando Owoh, Ebenezer Obey, Beautiful Nubia, Tracy Chapman, Taylor Swift and so many others.

“I made a Refix of ‘Pana’ by Tekno as at last year, which brought a lot of attention towards my brand. Everyone suddenly realized I got talent and that I am not playing about taking my music to the next level. Since then, I have several singles but my most recent project is ‘Irin Ajo’. This single is personal to me and I know a lot of music audience will connect to it.” –Okal.

IG and Twitter @iamokal

– Sesan Adeniji

Culled from the latest Mystreetz Magazine ( Photo Tale edition )