Singer Niniola mourns late husband in new tribute single

Afro-house artist Niniola Apata has released a new single, "Raining (O Dun Mi)," as a heartfelt tribute to her late husband and manager, Michael Ndika. The song, unveiled months after Ndika's passing, serves as a deeply personal expression of grief, love, and the healing journey following his loss.

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Some songs are made to entertain. Others are born from moments that change us forever. ‘Raining (O Dun Mi)’ is my deeply personal tribute to a man who was not only my life partner, but an important part of my journey and career.

Niniola described the track as more than just entertainment; it stems from a life-changing moment. In a post on X, she stated, "'Raining (O Dun Mi)' is my deeply personal tribute to a man who was not only my life partner, but an important part of my journey and career." She emphasized that the song is also for anyone who has lost a loved one, acknowledging the enduring memories and the void left behind.

The title, "O Dun Mi," is a Yoruba phrase conveying profound emotional pain. Through this melody, Niniola channels her personal experience of bereavement into a musical homage. She dedicated the song to those grappling with grief, stating, "For every tear we’ve cried, every pain we’ve carried, every memory that still lingers… 'Raining (O Dun Mi)' is the melody to it all."

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But this song is also for everyone who has lost someone they love, for the memories that remain, the empty spaces they leave behind, and the love that never truly goes away. Through music, I honour his memory.

Michael Ndika, who passed away in May 2026, was the CEO of NaijaReview, a multimedia platform focused on Afro-house and contemporary African music. He had been Niniola's partner for 13 years and played a crucial role as her manager, significantly influencing her music career. With "Raining (O Dun Mi)," Niniola transforms her personal loss into a tribute aimed at preserving her husband's memory and connecting with others who share similar experiences of grief.

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For everyone who has ever lost someone, this is for you. For every tear we’ve cried, every pain we’ve carried, every memory that still lingers… ‘Raining (O Dun Mi)’ is the melody to it all. It’s raining on us.