Nigerian Afrobeats rising star Ayox has returned with a powerful new single, “MANDEM,” featuring genre-blending vocalist DeCarlo. The track fuses vibrant Afrobeats and Afro-Pop rhythms, continuing the artist’s mission to push sonic boundaries while delivering emotionally driven storytelling.
Released via Cinq Music, a GoDigital Music company, the single is now available to stream globally across major digital platforms.
A Celebration of Individuality
On “MANDEM,” Ayox explores themes of identity, self-expression, and the way society perceives those who don’t conform to traditional expectations.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the song, Ayox explained that it was written for people who feel misunderstood or excluded because they don’t fit conventional norms.
“Mandem is a song inspired by the misconceptions of people who are naturally different. People who don’t fit into the normal way of life. People that feel like they’re outcast.”
The track ultimately acts as an anthem for individuality—encouraging listeners to embrace their uniqueness while challenging the labels often placed on them.
Ayox’s Rising Global Momentum
Born Ayomide Bakare Iyanuoluwa, Ayox is quickly becoming one of the most exciting voices emerging from Nigeria’s thriving Afrobeats scene. The singer-songwriter, who was born in Akure in Ondo State, began recording music at just 12 years old before later relocating to Lagos to pursue his career full-time.
His breakthrough came in 2023 after releasing a viral cover of “People” by Libianca. The performance caught the attention of global music figures including Akon, Chris Brown and Don Jazzy, helping catapult the young artist onto the international stage.
Since then, Ayox has steadily built momentum with releases like “Walking Dead,” which marked his first appearance on the Billboard charts, as well as the standout track “Cocaina.” His debut EP Last Son of a Widow further showcased his genre-blending sound and lyrical depth.
Blending Tradition With Modern Sounds
Ayox’s music draws on a diverse mix of influences, blending Afrobeats, Fuji, Highlife, R&B, hip-hop, and soul. His sound is shaped by legendary Nigerian artists such as King Sunny Ade and Orlando Owoh, alongside contemporary global acts like Burna Boy, Fireboy DML and Justin Bieber.
In 2025, he continued expanding his artistic reach with the EP When Nobody Is Watching, which featured collaborations with Ghanaian star Lasmid, Nigerian rising talent Qing Madi and gospel icon Yinka Ayefele.
A Mission Beyond Music
Beyond the music itself, Ayox has made it clear that his ambitions stretch far beyond chart success. With a growing international fanbase and strong streaming numbers across Nigerian cities such as Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt, the artist hopes to shine a global spotlight on his hometown while using music as a tool for connection and healing.
“MANDEM” continues that journey, combining infectious Afrobeats energy with a message about acceptance and authenticity.
Follow Ayox
Instagram | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music
