JEMIRIYE RELEASES NEW SINGLE, ‘OLÚRÓUNBÍ,’ INSPIRED BY YORUBA FOLKTALE
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By: Muftau Fatimo
Jemiriye Releases New Single, ‘Olúróunbí,’ Inspired By Yoruba Folktale
Afro-fusion singer, Jemiriye Adeniji, popularly known as Jemiriye, has released a new single and accompanying music video titled Olúróunbí, inspired by a traditional Yoruba folktale that explores ambition, sacrifice and the consequences of pursuing success at all costs.
The song celebrates Nigeria’s cultural heritage by blending indigenous Yoruba chants and rhythms with live orchestral instrumentation and contemporary music production.
According to a statement shared with Sunday Scoop, the track retells the story of Olúróunbí, a woman who desperately desires motherhood, prosperity and social status.
In her quest to fulfil these ambitions, Olúróunbí strikes a bargain with a sacred Iroko tree, promising her unborn child in exchange for the fulfilment of her wishes. However, when the time comes to honour the agreement, her pursuit of prosperity turns into anguish.
Jemiriye disclosed that the folktale had fascinated her since childhood, when she first encountered its chants and rhythms during village nights.
She explained that her understanding of the story deepened as she grew older, allowing her to appreciate its broader message about human desires, societal expectations and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
“Growing older, I began to understand the weight of the story. It speaks to something deeply human: the desire for a better life, the pressure to prove ourselves and the danger of pursuing success without asking what it might cost us,” she said.
The singer noted that she drew inspiration from the folktale to address contemporary societal pressures, particularly the expectations placed on women navigating competitive environments while striving to achieve professional and personal success.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the project, Jemiriye said her experiences as a Black woman working to overcome barriers had helped her connect with the story’s central themes.
“As a Black woman working to break barriers, I understand the pressure to over-promise, over-deliver and constantly prove your worth.
“Olúróunbí is a reminder to stop chasing emptiness, protect your peace and refuse to trade your humanity for a seat at a table that demands everything from you,” she added.
The statement further disclosed that listening sessions for the new project are being planned in Paris, Los Angeles and Lagos, with additional details expected to be announced.
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