Ayo. is the stunning artist signed to Polydor France. Her new album ‘Joyful’ has reached platinum status in France and will be released in the UK in August 2007.With her Nigerian father and Romanian Gypsy mother, it’s not surprise Ayo.’s music is a cultural hot pot. Her roots define her and threads of soul, folk, afro beat and reggae weave through her songs. It is no wonder she calls herself an African Gypsy. Ayo., whose name means ‘Joy’ in Yoruba, is an artist with a magnetic character. Her album ‘Joyful’, recorded in New York and produced by Jay Newland, tells stories of gypsy life and heart break. The record draws on influences as diverse as Pink Floyd, Fela Kuti and Prince Suni Ade all favourites of her occasionally DJing father - and mixes words in Pidgin, the street language of Lagos, with the seductive sound of the B3 organ and slide guitar.The powerful single ‘Down on My Knees’ will be the first track released from the album. Ayo. strips her soul bare, admitting feelings others might be wary to voice.
These personal lyrics stand tall and make an evocative package alongside the melodic guitar and percussion.