Ayo, one Europe’s hottest stars, releases her much anticipated single ‘Down On My Knees’

Ayo, one Europe’s hottest stars, releases her much anticipated single ‘Down On My Knees’ on 27th August and breathtaking critically acclaimed album ‘Joyful’ on Polydor Records on 3rd September.

The enticing debut ‘Joyful’, produced in New York with Jay Newland (Norah Jones), is bursting with bittersweet lyrics and melodies accompanied by Ayo’s ebullient and distinctive vocals. Showcasing Ayo’s talents are tracks such as the poignant folk-tinged lead single ‘Down On My Knees’, the uplifting ‘Life Is Real’, the reggae infused ‘Help Is Coming’ and the irresistible down-tempo ‘It’s Supposed To Be Love’.

Ayo (given name Joy Ogunmakin) was born in Nigeria and raised in Germany and France to a Romanian mother and Nigerian DJ father, who introduced her at an early age to records by such diverse artists as legend Fela Kuti, The Soul Children, Bob Marley, Donny Hathaway and Pink Floyd. These eclectic influences have played an important part in shaping her incredible sound and she soon found herself in London, New York and Paris showcasing her skills as a songwriter, guitarist and vocalist. She has since gone on to enjoy huge record sale success across Europe, reaching double Platinum status in France alone (with well over 400,000 copies). Her unique style has also gained attention from French fashion houses including Chanel, she was recently spotted with Karl Largerfeld at the show in Paris and the designer is currently creating her a customised strap for her guitar!

Ayo’s beguiling fusion of soul, R&B, folk and afrobeat has also captured the attention of the US, with actor Denzel Washington citing Ayo as his favourite artist of the moment and she is due to record a major network TV special to air in December, absolutely unheard for a new artist. With her single ‘Down On My Knees’ and album ‘Joyful’ due for release here, Ayo is now set to capture the imagination of the UK with her stunning collection of songs.

For more info please contact: Annabel Fox
/ 0207 436 3633