By Rita Okoye
In an industry where many promising voices are silenced by financial strain, burnout, and lack of structural support, gospel artiste Tomi Folayan has remained a rare exception; a builder rather than a bystander.
Early in his journey, Tomi identified and gathered a group of exceptional musical talents to form a strong buzzing movement in the whole of Kwara and the environs called “Olympas Shihon”, a gospel music collective meaning “The Heavenly Sound.”
Members of the movement, became a symbol of perseverance, purpose, and intentional growth in Ilorin, Kwara state which at this period isn’t so pronounced or mostly-overlooked in the national gospel music scene.
While the glamour of music often takes the spotlight, the harsh reality is that it’s one of the most difficult careers to pursue especially in places like Ilorin, where resources are limited, the industry is underdeveloped, and artistic careers are still met with skepticism. Tomi Folayan the leader of the movement didn’t just survive these conditions, he became deeply rooted and is solidly building. Unlike many artistes who leave Ilorin in search of greener pastures, Tomi Folayan and his Mobement garnered the Lagos experience from his days as a youth corp member; latching on his connections with more established acts.
Olympas Shihon, under his leadership, has become more than a music group but a movement.
In the space of two years, Tomi broke different barriers with his team to organize impactful annual concerts by bringing back-to-back music experiences that have become milestone achievements for the city. His unwavering consistency has set him apart; he wasn’t particular about virality but pursued a lasting legacy.
Olympas Shinon has staged concerts like “BARAUCH” and “THE EXHIBIT” and other events which became platforms for emerging talents.
The movement’s gatherings don’t just entertain; they empower and uplift.
With Tomi at the helm, Olympas Shihon has proven to be a force that proves gospel music can be both culturally rich, inspiring, soul lifting, entertaining and deeply transformative.
In a world where history is easily forgotten, Tomi Folayan remains one of the few creating something worth remembering. As his flagship, Olympas Shihon has continued to build legacies that amplifies voices, strengthens communities, and honors the calling of gospel music.