Ara Reflects on Exploitation and Abuse in Her Music Career
Aralola Olamuyiwa, popularly known as Ara, Nigeria’s foremost female talking drummer, has opened up about the challenges she faced during her journey to stardom. From exploitation and abuse to isolation, the musician shared her story during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) to mark her 50th birthday.
A Painful Chapter in Her Career
Ara revealed that a six-year contract with a record label from 2000 to 2007 subjected her to harrowing experiences. She alleged that the label’s leader exploited her sexually, isolated her from her family, and manipulated her into enduring years of mistreatment.
“I was isolated from my family; my parents were not allowed to see me, nor were my fellow artists. At one point, I was sexually exploited when the owner of the record label started dating me, lying about his marital status,” she recounted.
Despite her success, Ara said she was left with no assets or savings after the contract ended. “At the end of the six years, I had no house, no car, no money—just the official car they took back because I refused to renew the contract.”
The Financial Toll
Under the contract, Ara was entitled to 30% of the revenue while the label retained 70%. However, she revealed that her earnings were disbursed in small amounts, leaving her without full control over her finances.
She compared her experience to that of the late Mohbad, describing how depression led her to leave the country when offered a job by Professor Wole Soyinka.
Silver Linings Amid Challenges
Although the period was tumultuous, Ara acknowledged the opportunities it brought her. “While on the contract, I performed with legends like Wyclef Jean, Stevie Wonder, and Wesley Snipes. I’m not ungrateful for those achievements,” she said.
Advocating for Change
Now the Governor of the Lagos chapter of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), Ara is using her platform to call for a safer and more inclusive entertainment industry. She emphasized the need for leaders to prioritize the well-being of aspiring artists, ensuring they are protected from exploitation.
Reflecting on her past, she advised against signing contracts without proper legal counsel or family input.
Personal Growth and Resilience
Ara revealed her struggles with isolation and denial, which were coping mechanisms during her challenging years. “I intentionally worked on myself to forget some experiences to keep my sanity,” she said.
She also shared her thoughts on marriage, explaining that while she values the institution, she is taking her time for personal growth. Despite having been legally married before and raising a 16-year-old son, Ara remains hopeful about finding the right partner.
Celebrating Milestones
Marking her golden jubilee, Ara expressed gratitude for her achievements over her 25-year career, which includes the release of over 40 songs. She described herself as more of a performing artist than a recording one, adding that her journey, though rough, has strengthened her resolve.
Her story serves as a testament to resilience and the power of speaking out, inspiring others in the entertainment industry to demand better standards and accountability.
