Nigerian singer, Yemi Alade has shared how she lost her voice after she was invited to feature on American hip hop star, Beyoncé Knowles Carter’s album.
The artist said she had flown to Los Angeles, United States, and she went to the studio to get acquainted with the team, a day before her recording session.
The 2025 Grammy Award nominee then left the studio for her room, slept, and woke up the next day, only to find out that she could not speak.
Yemi Alade said all she heard in her head was an effort but she could not voice out words. She had to communicate with paper and pen.
The ‘Mama Africa’ hitmaker almost gave up but she chose to try her voice routine first, a combination of warm water, Vitamin C, ginger, and tea, and kept warm.
Thankfully, it worked like a charm, She was able to speak up a bit and went on to record two songs with Beyonce on her album.
However, the 35-year-old light-heartedly said her “village people” didn’t want her on that album but she is grateful to God that they did not succeed.
Yemi Alade was featured on “Don’t Jealous Me”, a track from Beyoncé’s soundtrack album “The Lion King: The Gift.”
She appeared on the track alongside Mr Eazi and Tekno. Rolling Stone magazine revealed that Alade also recorded a verse for an earlier version of “My Power” in June.
Yemi Alade on Grammy Nomination
The Nigerian music star recently opened up about her first-ever solo Grammy nomination in the Best African Music Performance category for her song “Tomorrow.”
The nomination, announced weeks ago, has been a highlight of her career. Reflecting on the honor, Yemi described the moment as transformative.
“It feels surreal. It feels like a miracle to me. Like a miracle has happened in my life. I almost thought this moment might never come. It’s a good time to be alive.”
Yemi Alade
She further noted how the recognition has reinforced her belief in perseverance and hard work.
“I felt seen because it gave me reassurance that anybody out there can become anything. You just have to believe and not stop. Even if the world wants you to stop, don’t stop.”
Yemi Alade
Nominees in this category are Nigeria’s artists with great songs such as ‘MMS’ by Asake & Wizkid, ‘Sensational’ by Chris Brown Featuring Davido & Lojay, ‘Higher’ by Burna Boy and ‘Love Me JeJe’ by Tems.
Moreover, the top Nigerian singer and Grammy Nominee, Yemi Alade has brightened up the festive season, setting the pace with her hot new single, titled ‘Merry Christmas O!’
The new song which was released by the ‘King of Queens’ crooner to herald the Christmas season is a cheerful anthem that celebrates the spirit of giving, joy, and togetherness which is the spirit of the season that exudes love and care for the next-door neighbor, the vulnerable, the oppressed and the needy.
‘Merry Christmas O!’ has lyrics like “Merry Christmas, Happy New/It’s the season of giving/This is the time for giving and sharing” and “God is the reason for the season”.
Yemi Alade who was recently celebrated, showcased her velvety voice and captured the warmth that the yuletide season brings in her signature tone.
‘Merry Christmas O!’ sets the mood for a joyous celebration.
Yemi Alade became known when she won the Peak Talent Show in 2009. Afterward, she released three singles from ‘The King of Queens’ Album: “Johnny”, “Tangerine”, and “Kissing”.
Johnny was an international hit in many countries including Nigeria, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, South Africa, Liberia, Uganda, and the United Kingdom.
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