Our Woman Crush Wednesday, ARALOLA OLAMUYIWA, popularly known as the queen of drums, is an African supremely talented singer, songwriter, dancer, producer, and actress who has displayed her skills in the musical world in global places like the USA, China, Ghana, and other different countries.

With her band of exceptionally talented musicians and dancers, Ara has performed on global stages with renowned musicians like Femi Kuti, Seun Kuti, Tiwa Savage, David O, Angelique Kidijo, and many other Grammy award-winning superstars.

Her dexterity in fussing traditional African beats with modern rhythm has led her to hold studio and performances with other superstars in the world of music. The legendary Stevie Wonder featured her on his A TIME TO LOVE album, the first track featuring Kim Burrell “IF YOUR LOVE CANNOT BE MOVED” playing three traditional Yoruba songs and many other performances.

She has won numerous awards both locally and internationally. Ara has been decorated Water Ambassador for Africa by an international organization called Melody for Dialogue among Civilizations Association in New York, USA. She has also been honored with a key to the city of Miami in Florida in 2004 for breaking a major traditional jinx and bringing the African tradition into the limelight.

With her talents and unique drumming skills, Ara has demonstrated her passion for keeping the Yoruba tradition alive and promoting the beauty of her culture to global places.