1. What’s your name and where are you from?
I am Misty Dino from Ikare Akoko, Ondo State in Nigeria and am now living in Canada.
2. How long have you been creating music?
I’ve been doing music since childhood, playing with my friends, drumming, singing, and as part of choir. I am extremely fortunate to have met and be mentored by the late great Biglo who introduced me to Foster Zino, and other musicians and producers. By the early 2000’s I formed a group, “DINOS FAMILY” which started out with many members coming in and out, until we finally remained three. We became known in Shomolu-Bariga as part of the exploding Afro Pop music scene. Together we released singles, videos, did shows, and an album before the group abruptly disbanded in 2008.
In 2010 I released my solo album “UPGRADE” and was about to start promoting it, when I was involved in a catastrophic motorbike accident requiring major surgery and a lengthy recovery. This was a setback I didn’t expect, and once back on my feet I made it my mission to regain my earlier momentum.
I did a lot of shows in Nigeria, and Accra, Ghana and I was invited to perform on stage with legendary artists 2Face , Style-Plus, Ruggedman, and The Remedies . My videos for “KARENNA” and “YOUR LOVE” are shown on television including HipTv, SoundCity, OnTv, GalaxyTv. My songs play on top radio stations in Nigeria and Accra, Ghana.
Within 4 months of moving to Canada I released my first Canadian-Afro Pop single “CONCERN” and shot the accompanying promotional video which is featured on the HipTv digital platforms. I have also started performing at shows here.
3. How would you classify your music?
I am an Afro Pop artist with Reggae and Hip Hop influences stemming from the music I listened to then. My earliest memories are of my Dad, a great music lover himself listening to Michael Jackson, Bob Marley, Fela Kuti, King Sunny Ade. Ebenezer Obey, Olando Owoh.
4. What’s your primary inspiration either musical or not?
I’m inspired by the world around me and the stories of the people in it, and by my own story within the world.
5. What are your plans for the near future?
I’m currently working on releasing my new single “WAALA” and have just shot the video for it. In the future my plans are to become the biggest artist from Africa, and the world, and to use my music to change peoples lives in a positive way.
6. Anything else you want your fans to know?
I’m having an upcoming show on May 20th, and look forward to releasing song after song and album after album!
