Nigerian-born recording artist and producer Tommyphyll is steadily rising as a notable voice in Canada’s music scene, captivating audiences with his genre-defying sound and dynamic live performances. Based in Winnipeg, the multi-talented musician born Tomiwa Omolayo is gaining attention for his innovative fusion of Afrobeats, 80s synth-pop, and soulful orchestral elements, a style he calls “Afrodiem.”

Known for creating music that uplifts and empowers, Tommyphyll describes his songs as “feel-good empowerment anthems” for people navigating life’s many battles whether emotional, spiritual, or personal.

“Everyone is either fighting to become something, fighting for something, or fighting against something,” he explains. “My music is meant to serve as a guide or a weapon to help listeners through those battles.”

Tommyphyll’s musical journey formally began in 2018, when he recorded his first vocals using GarageBand on his iPhone. That moment, he says, sparked a realization about his creative potential and commitment.

“If I could consciously spend this many hours trying to perfect something, then I would most definitely be successful at it,” he recalls. “That was the beginning of everything.”

Music had always been part of his life, though. Growing up in Lagos, Nigeria, he was surrounded by a rich soundscape from his mother playing Yinka Ayefele’s gospel music to family road trips filled with ABBA, D’banj, and Wande Coal. But a key turning point came when he discovered Jon Bellion’s The Human Condition, which inspired him to begin releasing his own music after studying Bellion’s self-production techniques.

While building his music career, Tommyphyll also pursued higher education. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Global Political Economy and a minor in Marketing from the University of Manitoba. During his time in university, he also worked as the Artist Relations and Event Manager at the St. Norbert Arts Centre, a role that helped him connect with Winnipeg’s creative community while honing his organizational and leadership skills.

In 2020, he independently released his debut album ART OF DREAMS, written, produced, and mastered entirely by himself. Most recently, he dropped a 4-track EP titled LOVE ME LIKE THE FIRST DAY in April 2024, which has received strong support from fans and peers.

Tommyphyll has performed at major music festivals across Canada, including Rainbow Trout, Blurfest, Soul Supreme, and Afroswitch. In June 2024, he delivered a solo performance at the Winnipeg Sea Bears’ halftime show at the Canada Life Centre, playing to a crowd of over 7,000. He has also shared the stage with acclaimed artists such as Kizz Daniel, Ruger, NSG, BXXN, Odumodublvck, Azanti, L.A.X, and even entertainment icons like Basketmouth, AY the Comedian, and Rotimi.

His performances, however, are deeply personal. “I always pray before I start any song,” he says. “I don’t own music — God does. So it makes sense to ask the owner for permission and guidance.”

Outside the spotlight, Tommyphyll plays an active role in supporting other artists. He currently serves as the Black Professionals in Music Manager at Manitoba Music, where he helps empower both emerging and established Black musicians in the province. In 2024, he collaborated with Acoris Liquors to produce an original song for the national release of their flagship product, VIOLET.

His recent accomplishments have also earned him two major nominations, firstly at the Western Canadian Music Awards, secondly the America’s Next Top Hitmaker and Afrobeats Artist of the Year.

When asked about future collaborations, Tommyphyll dreams big, listing artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, Jon Bellion, Hans Zimmer, Tems, Adekunle Gold, and Rema. He also has brand ambitions involving Arsenal FC, Nike, Dr. Martens, and Nigerian designer Mai Atafo.

With upcoming performances on the horizon, Tommyphyll continues to focus on growth, both musically and professionally. And while he embraces the internet as a democratizing force in music, he also voices concern about the pressure for instant virality at the expense of artistic development.

“There is no music industry without the people who make music yet they’re the least valued,” he says. “I’d change how artists are treated and seen both in the industry and in society.”

From recording his first songs on a phone to headlining arena stages and mentoring the next generation of talent, Tommyphyll’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, purpose, and relentless self-belief.

“If the whole world believes in you but you don’t believe in yourself, nothing will change,” he reflects. “But if you have unshakeable belief in yourself even when the world doesn’t you’ll be unstoppable.”