From being a first time attendee of the annual Grammy award, the 67th edition, which held in February this year at the Crypto.com Arena Los Angeles, US-based Nigerian music critic, writer and media influencer, Olumide Akinlolu professionally known as Oyebanji Akins or O’Fresh has made history as the first African critic and X influencer to be inducted as a member of the prestigious Recording Academy, the esteemed organisation responsible for selecting Grammy winners based on merit.
His induction follows his invitation to the Recording Academy’s 2025 New Member Class. The Academy extended a warm welcome to Akins in a statement via email, acknowledging his contributions to the music industry and enjoined him to actively participate in fulfilling the organisation’s mission.
The Chief Executive Officer of African Root Store LLC and founder Connecting The Dots Among Blacks (ctdamongblacks) podcast joins the array of music professionals and creators, engaging in celebrations, sharing experiences, and contributing to the growth of the music industry.
As a member of the Recording Academy, O’Fresh will have the opportunity to celebrate peers’ achievements throughout the Grammy Awards process, spotlighting excellence across genre and community.
This milestone recognises his dedication and expertise in the music industry, allowing him to play a vital role in shaping the future of music alongside fellow members. This isn’t just an honour, “but a chance to amplify your voice, shape the future of our industry and make a lasting impact,” the statement further read.
Oyebanji Akins will contribute to celebrating and advocating for the diverse community of music creators, advancing the Academy’s mission to serve music and its makers. His induction into the Recording Academy marks a significant achievement, solidifying his position as a respected voice in the music industry.
Reacting to the development, Akins said, “Honoured to join the @RecordingAcad as a Grammy Professional Member. As an African critic, I’m proud to help connect our culture to the global stage.
“Being invited to join the Academy is incredibly meaningful to me. It’s recognition of my work, my voice, my commitment to the music industry and culture at large. It’s not just an honor, it’s a responsibility to contribute, represent diverse perspectives, and help shape the future of music on a global stage.”
“For someone like me, whose journey started from grassroots storytelling and music criticism, this recognition feels like validation that my efforts to bridge cultures and elevate African and Black voices are making an impact.
“It motivates me to keep pushing boundaries, amplifying artists, and ensuring that the richness of our stories is seen and respected worldwide. Above all, it’s a reminder that dreams, no matter where they start, are possible. And I’m grateful to be part of a community that values creativity, integrity, and the power of music,” he added.
Oyebanji Akins commended his team at CTDA Media for their support and hard, stating that “Great things happen when many hands and hearts work as one. Grateful for my team’s hard work.”
