Guide Note

Ayo is a German-born singer/songwriter with a unique style consisting of folk, blues, soul and world music influences.

Fast Facts

1. Birth Name: Joy Olasunmibo Ogunmakin
2. Born: September 14, 1980
3. Birthplace: Cologne, Germany
4. Is of Romani and Nigerian descent
5. Genre(s): Folk, Soul, Reggae
6. Years Active: 2001-Present
7. Record Labels: Interscope Records, Universal/Polydor
8. Began as a violin player before moving to piano and guitar

At the age of six Ayọ played the violin, then turned to the piano and later taught herself to play the guitar. When her father, who worked part-time as DJ while studying engineering in Germany, discovered her singing talent he helped her record her first demo tape and allowed her to drop out of school at the age of 18.

At 21 Ayọ moved to London and later lived in Paris. During her time in Paris she signed a contract with Polydor Records. In January 2006 Ayo recorded her first album in Sony's New York studio in five days.

• 2006: Joyful