JOHNNY DRILLE

Johnny Drille is a singer/songwriter, producer and engineer known for crafting emotive and heartfelt songs. He is easily one of this generation’s torchbearers in alternative music.

 He began his musical journey in his church choir in Benin City, Nigeria. Johnny competed in the sixth season of Project Fame West Africa in 2013. It was here that his impressive vocals first caught attention, winning him millions of fans. Johnny continued to show his considerable talents with covers, one of which caught the attention of legendary producer and Mavin head honcho, Don Jazzy. Johnny Drille released his debut single, “Wait For Me” in 2015, earning a nomination for Best Alternative Song at The Headies.

 In 2017, Johnny Drille was activated as the latest addition to an increasingly diverse Mavin Records roster. Since then, he's grown a reputation for technical brilliance, winning multiple awards for Producer of the Year at the Beatz Awards. His unique artistry and range have also won him a place as the continent's leading alternative act, with yearly award nominations and cosigns from global stars like Jon Bellion. Johnny Drille's army of devoted followers is as loyal as you will find anywhere. It’s easy to see why; Beyond his musical gifts, Johnny connects with fans through the shared emotions he curates through his music. Over time, he's become known for delivering memorable performances, having hosted two multi-city tours under his flagship "Johnny's Room Live" in 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2022. These tours host over 5,000 fans each year

 In March 2020, Johnny Drille hinted at a new, more risque direction with the release of the retro-inspired “Something Better”. He closed out the year with the edgy "Mystery Girl", the first release off his debut studio album. In 2021, Johnny released his first single off the project, “Bad Dancer”. This was followed by his debut album, “Before We Fall Asleep”. Released in September 2021, the 14-song project featured afrobeats legend Don Jazzy, label-mates Ayra Starr and Ladipoe, Styl Plus, and Chyde.

 2022 saw Johnny score his first top 10 single on Nigeria’s Apple Charts with fan favorite- How are You(My Friend), a lead off his 2022 EP ‘Home’, which saw him feature artists like Phyno, Adekunle Gold, and The Cavemen. Since then, Johnny Drille keeps accelerating forward, and heading for the stars. He opened 2023 in signature fashion with ‘Believe Me’- a love serenade that  made everyone love again. He closed with Spending and The Best Part.

 Romance, thanksgiving, and gratefulness are the motifs that promise to define the Edo-born singer’s 2024 as he navigates personal and professional landmarks. The Mavin auteur prepares for his first tour of Canada while he keeps recording for his best project yet.