Oluwafisayo Isa, better known by her stage name Darkoo, is a dynamic rapper and singer whose blend of Afrobeat and contemporary sounds has captured the attention of music lovers around the world. Born on September 19, 2001, in Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria, Darkoo’s unique style and powerful lyrics reflect her rich cultural heritage and personal experiences.
She is celebrated for her hit single “Gangsta,” a collaboration with One Acen, which not only topped the UK Afrobeats Chart but also made its way to number 22 on the Official Singles Chart in 2020.
Profile Overview
- Full Name: Oluwafisayo Isa
- Date of Birth: September 19, 2001
- Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria
- Birthplace: Yaba, Lagos
- Nationality: British and Nigerian
- Occupations: Rapper, Singer, Songwriter
- Record Labels: Atlantic Records UK, Virgin Music Nigeria
- Estimated Net Worth: $500,000
Early Life and Education
Darkoo’s journey began in Lagos, where she was born and raised until the age of seven. At that point, her family moved to South London, immersing her in a vibrant cultural landscape that would influence her artistic development. She attended St Catherine’s Catholic School for Girls, where her passion for music began to flourish. Surrounded by diverse influences and new experiences, Darkoo honed her musical talents, laying the groundwork for her future career.
Musical Beginnings
The spark for Darkoo’s music career ignited when she started creating songs at the tender age of 15. Initially drawn to drill rap, she soon began to integrate melodic elements into her work, showcasing her versatility as an artist. This evolution in her style would prove pivotal as she sought to carve out her unique identity in the competitive music scene.
Breakthrough with “Gangsta”
In late 2019, Darkoo released “Gangsta,” a track that would change the trajectory of her career. Collaborating with UK rapper One Acen, the song gained traction on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, where it became a viral sensation. This exposure led to the track charting at number 22 on the Official Singles Chart in January 2020 and achieving the top position on the UK Afrobeats Chart. The success of “Gangsta” marked Darkoo as an emerging force in the UK music industry, garnering widespread acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
Continued Success and Recognition
Following the success of “Gangsta,” Darkoo continued to build on her momentum with the release of “Juicy” in March 2020, featuring Hardy Caprio. This single also performed well, reaching number 62 on the Official Singles Chart. Her impressive body of work earned her nominations for several prestigious awards at the 2020 MOBO Awards, including Best Female Act and Best Newcomer, as well as a nomination for “Gangsta” in the Song of the Year category.
A significant milestone in her career came in April 2021 when Darkoo featured on the remix of “Body” by Russ Millions and Tion Wayne. This collaboration propelled the track to the top spot on the Official Singles Chart, solidifying her reputation as a sought-after artist in the UK music scene.
In July 2021, Darkoo released her debut EP titled “2 In 1,” which showcased her artistry and featured collaborations with notable figures such as Tion Wayne and Unknown T. The EP further demonstrated her growth as an artist and her ability to blend different musical genres.
A New Chapter with Virgin Music Nigeria
Exciting developments for Darkoo continued in September 2023 when it was announced that she would be distributed by Virgin Music Nigeria. This partnership marks a significant turning point in her career, opening doors to new opportunities and collaborations as she aims to reach a broader audience.
Personal Life and Identity
Darkoo’s personal life is as vibrant as her music. She embraces a non-traditional view of gender norms, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and self-expression. Her belief in staying true to herself is reflected in her evolving styles and appearances. Darkoo has previously been in a same-gender relationship, though the current status of her romantic life remains private.
Financial Success
With her growing popularity and successful music career, Darkoo has amassed an estimated net worth of $500,000. This financial success underscores her impact on the music industry and her potential for further growth.
Discography Highlights
Darkoo has released numerous singles as a lead artist, showcasing her talent and versatility. Notable tracks include:
- Gas Station (featuring Curtis J) – 2017
- Timeline (with Mulla Stackz) – 2018
- Foreign (with AdeSTP & Shadz) – 2019
- Juice (with Br3nya)
- Rover
- Gangsta (with One Acen) – peaked at number 22 in the UK; certified Platinum by BPI
- Juicy (with Hardy Caprio) – peaked at number 62
- Kryptonite
- Cinderella (featuring 4Keus)
- Pick Up – 2021
- She Like (featuring Blanco)
- Slow Down (featuring Tion Wayne)
- Bad From Early (featuring Buju & TSB)
- Always (featuring Black Sherif) – 2022
- Falling (with Smallgod & KiDi)
- There She Goes (Jack Sparrow) (featuring Mayorkun)
- Favorite Girl (featuring Dess Dior) – 2024
- Always On My Mind
- Favorite Girl Remix (featuring Rema) – 2024
Conclusion
Darkoo’s journey from a young girl in Lagos to a prominent figure in the British-Nigerian music scene is a testament to her talent, hard work, and resilience. With her unique sound and compelling lyrics, she is poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come.