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By Taiwo Babatunde
Sheffield came alive with vibrant rhythms and unforgettable performances at the 2025 Heeley Farm Festival, held on Saturday, June 21st, but one act that truly stole the spotlight wa Nigerian-born musician and celebrated Bassist Oluwatobi Oyero.
Performing alongside an Afrocentric band, Oyero dazzled the crowd with a mix of reggae grooves and Afrobeat energy, leaving the audience in awe of his incredible talent.
Known for his smooth command of the bass guitar and his calm yet captivating stage presence, Oluwatobi’s performance stood out as one of the highlights of the festival. The band’s soulful blend of reggae and Afrobeat created a lively, feel-good atmosphere that had festival-goers dancing and cheering throughout their set.
Oluwatobi’s passion for music runs deep. He started his musical journey in the church, growing up in Lagos, Nigeria, where he was an active part of his local Baptist church’s music team. Over the years, he developed a strong foundation in gospel, jazz, reggae, and other genres. In 2013, his bass playing skills earned him the Best Bass Player award at the Baptist Convention’s annual music workshop.
Beyond his music career, Oluwatobi has a strong academic background. He attended Success Nursery and Primary School and Ebenezer Comprehensive High School in Lagos. He later obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Olabisi Onabanjo University, Nigeria. Always eager to grow and explore new fields, he went on to earn a Master’s degree in Marketing from Sheffield Hallam University, United Kingdom.
Now based in the UK, Oyero continues to make waves with his musical talent, collaborating with artists and bringing African sounds to global stages. His recent appearance at the Heeley Farm Festival not only reinforced his status as a gifted bassist but also introduced many in the Sheffield community to the vibrant richness of Afrobeat music.
Heeley Farm, known for its community spirit, green spaces, and support for local arts and culture, provided the perfect backdrop for this soulful performance. The festival drew music lovers, families, and visitors from all walks of life, celebrating diversity and creativity in a truly unique setting.
As Oluwatobi Oyero continues to grow his musical journey, both as a performer and mentor, fans can expect more live shows, collaborations, and inspiring performances in the near future.
