Terry Apala, born Terry Alexandar Ejeh, is a pioneering Nigerian artist celebrated for revitalizing the traditional Apala genre by blending it with contemporary Afrobeat and hip-hop. His distinctive deep vocals and innovative sound have solidified his status as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s music scene, earning him widespread acclaim and a loyal following.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Terry Alexandar Ejeh |
| Date of Birth | 27 July 1988 |
| Place of Birth | Mushin, Lagos State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| State of Origin | Isoko, Delta State, Nigeria |
| Occupations | Singer, Songwriter, Performer |
| Labels | Nelson Jack Music (formerly), Independent |
| Net Worth | $100,000 (estimated) |
Early Life and Education
Born on July 27, 1988 (some sources cite October 31, 1988), in Mushin, Lagos State, Terry Apala hails from the Isoko ethnic group in Delta State. Raised in Lagos, he was immersed in Nigeria’s diverse musical traditions from childhood.
His passion for music began in church, where he honed his skills as a drummer and guitarist.
During his school years, he frequently participated in talent shows and competitions, using makeshift instruments like empty cans to practice rhythms, which laid the foundation for his future career.
Career
Terry’s professional journey started with the R&B group Mezo Soprano, where he served as lead vocalist. The group gained prominence after winning a competition at the Kanu Heart Foundation launch in 2000, performing alongside veteran musician Orlando Julius.
After the group disbanded, Terry transitioned to a solo career, developing his signature “Apala Fusion” style, which merges Yoruba Apala rhythms with modern beats.
His breakthrough came with the 2017 hit single Champagne Shower, produced by Sess, which catapulted him into the mainstream. That same year, his cover of Ed Sheeran’s Shape of You earned him the “Best Music Cover of the Year (International)” award at the City People Music Awards.
He has since released numerous singles, collaborations with artists like Burna Boy, CDQ, and Niniola, and projects such as the 2020 EP Major Vibes and the 2022 album Ààrẹ, which further showcase his genre-defying artistry.
Personal Life
Terry Apala maintains a private personal life, with no public information available about his romantic relationships, spouse, or children. He identifies as Isoko by ethnicity (from Delta State) but was raised in Lagos.
Terry Apala Net Worth
His estimated net worth is approximately $100,000, primarily accrued through music royalties, performances, and collaborations.
Discography
Key Releases:
- Champagne Shower (2017)
- Shape of You (Cover, 2017)
- Joosi, Kamba, Modernize
- Igboro (feat. Burna Boy)
- No Sege (feat. CDQ)
- Apala Wifi, Bad Girl, Palongo
- Lock Up (feat. Niniola)
- Baca, Feel Me, Number One
- Mo Popular, Depression
- Adis Ababa (feat. MI Abaga)
- EP: Major Vibes (2020)
- Album: Ààrẹ (2022)
Awards and Nominations
- Winner: Best Music Cover (International), City People Music Awards (2017)
- Recipient: Special Recognition Award for Best Indigenous Act
- Nominee: Rookie of the Year, The Headies (2016)
- Nominee: Most Promising Act, Nigeria Entertainment Awards (2016)
- Honored: Next Rated Artist, Nigerian Hype Awards (2018)
- School/Local Awards: Multiple accolades for promoting indigenous music
Terry Apala remains a dynamic force in Nigerian music, bridging cultural heritage with modern innovation to redefine the Apala genre for new generations.
