Jemiriye re-imagines Yoruba folktale in Olúróunbí

Afro-fusion artiste, Jemiriye Adeniji

Afro-fusion artiste, Jemiriye Adeniji, popularly known as Jemiriye, has released a new single and music video, Olúróunbí, inspired by a traditional Yoruba folktale exploring ambition, sacrifice and the cost of success.

The song draws on Nigerian cultural heritage, combining indigenous Yoruba chants and rhythms with live orchestral instrumentation and contemporary production.

According to a statement shared with Sunday Scoop, the song retells the story of Olúróunbí, a woman who longs for motherhood, prosperity and social status. In pursuit of her desires, she 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 to anguish.

Jemiriye said the story had fascinated her since childhood, when she first encountered its chants and rhythms during village nights.

She added, “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.”

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The singer explained that she used the folktale to address contemporary pressures, particularly the expectations placed on women striving to succeed in competitive environments.

“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 said.

The statement added that listening sessions are planned for Paris, Los Angeles and Lagos, with further details expected to be announced.