In a world where tradition often fades with time, Rasheed Apala stands as a vibrant bridge between the past and the present. As a young artist immersed in Apala, a genre deeply rooted in Yoruba heritage and historically dominated by older generations, he is redefining its boundaries. With a deep respect for the rhythmic mastery of legends like Haruna Ishola, he infuses Apala’s signature percussion and call-and-response vocals with a fresh, contemporary edge. His music seamlessly blends traditional talking drums with modern influences, making Apala resonate with a new generation while preserving its cultural essence. Despite being a young voice in a seasoned genre, Rasheed commands attention, proving that Apala is not just a relic of the past but a living, evolving art form. Through his sound, he invites both old and young to experience Apala in a way that is both timeless and refreshingly modern.
Introduce us to the man, Rasheed Apala…
My name is Adejumo Rasheed Adebare, but I’m better known by my stage name, Rasheed Apala. I was born on April 19, 1998, into a family of five in Idiko-Ago, a town nestled in the Oke Ogun area of Oyo State, Nigeria. I grew up in this vibrant town, where I attended L.A. Primary School and later continued my education at Community Grammar School, both in Idiko-Ago. Afterward, I advanced my studies at The Polytechnic, Ibadan, where I pursued a course in Mass Communication and graduated in August 2024. Even though I am a devout Muslim, I discovered my passion for Apala music and chose it as my profession in 2017. People around me recognised my talent and encouraged me to nurture it, convincing me that this gift was something I had to develop. Their support and belief in me drive me to embrace this path wholeheartedly.
What first drew you to Apala music, and how did your journey as a musician begin?
I inherited loving and listening to Apala music from my father, who spends all his day enjoying the late Alhaji Haruna Ishola songs. I’m always with him, and most tracks of the legend like ‘Ninu ese meji’, ‘Sule Tapa Maito’, ‘Onise n Sise’, and ‘Oroki Social Club’ I could sing from A – Z. I began by singing these songs around, and from there people advised me to start composing my own songs after hearing the voice of Apala I’m putting out. This is how Rasheed Apala began.
Apala has deep roots in the Yoruba culture. What does it mean to you personally?
Apala music has deep roots in Yoruba culture because it communicates great values. It is a genre of music where proverb, idioms, beauty of Yoruba language are expressed. Therefore, Yoruba people and every other tribe who understand the music don’t joke with it even in the world of today that is carried away by Hip-hop music.
Your style combines traditional Apala with modern influences. How do you strike a balance between the old and the new?
The time I began, I focused mainly on traditional Apala, but we realised that there is need to catch the attention of the younger (generations) too, so we started twisting the Hip-hop music lyrics to Apala, using slangs that people are used to already and it gave (the music) wider acceptance. Now the gathering and set of people on seat determine whether we are going purely on traditional Apala (or infused it with) the modern. We maintain the balance by giving both old and young ages what they want to hear.
Adejumo Rasheed Adebare. (AKA Rasheed Apala)
What modern genres or artists inspire your approach to Apala music?
I’m inspired by Qdot Alagbe.
Apala is known for its rhythmic percussion and call-and-response vocals. Have you made any changes to the instrumentation or vocal style?
I made minor changes by ensuring my choruses are short, unlike that of Alhaji Haruna Ishola; (this is for it) to be easy for listeners to catch. People nowadays don’t have time; they just want to vibe and ‘Lamba.’
How do younger audiences respond to Apala, and do you find it challenging to keep them engaged?
It wasn’t easy at first, but after studying and understanding what they actually want, they are now enjoying it. In fact, I got tagged under the posts of Hip-hop hits by fans, asking me to make the Apala version for them.
What are some of the biggest challenges in keeping Apala music relevant today?
The biggest challenge is that people are not interested in listening to delightful music again, they just want to dance. For example, I noticed on my social media handles that the Apala version of hip hop music gets engagements more than the traditional Apala tracks I composed.
Do you think Apala has a place on global music stages? If so, how do you see it evolving?
Apala music has a place at the global music stage because there are still lovers of originality, the acceptance is still there. I have no doubt (about) performing at O2 Arena (in the United Kingdom) soon because Apala is a global and well appreciated genre of music, most especially now that we (insert) Hip-hop lyrics and latest slangs.
Are there any collaborations or projects you’re currently working on that excite you?
Adejumo Rasheed Adebare. (AKA Rasheed Apala)
I’m working on having a collaboration with Qdot Alagbe, on the new album to be released next by myself.
Tell us a few of the important personalities that have engaged your band.
We’ve had former President of Nigeria Olusegun Obasanjo danced on my stage, actor Muyiwa Ademola Authentic, actor Bimbo Thomas and many more.
What message do you hope listeners take away from your music?
I pass messages that are meaningful and impactful with Apala music.
Interview arranged by: Franklyn Frantos Sr.
Photo credits: Rasheed Apala
© Feferity Media Group 2025