Douyé’s Journey: From Nigerian Roots to Global Jazz Sensation with The Golden Sèkèrè

Born on January 4, 1969, at Lagos Island Maternity Hospital and delivered by Nigeria’s first female gynecologist, Dr. Elizabeth Abimbola Awoliyi, Douyé’s life is rooted in Nigerian heritage. With Bayelsa State origins, her family boasts a rich legacy, including her mother, Diepreye Youduba, a retired barrister, and her late father, Landy Youduba, a Military Captain and Political Advisor who left an indelible mark on her life.

Douyé’s educational path took her from Lagos to the United States, where she earned degrees in Social Work from California State University, Los Angeles, and California State University, Long Beach, later completing a doctorate in Clinical Psychology in 2023. Alongside her academic achievements, her voice was shaped at Hollywood’s Musicians Institute and under jazz virtuoso Howlett Smith, who encouraged her to pursue jazz—a genre she has since made her own.

Her latest album, The Golden Sèkèrè, is a testament to Douyé’s distinct artistry. Blending American jazz with Nigerian rhythms, the album celebrates her cultural heritage with the integration of the sèkèrè, an African percussive instrument. Acclaimed by critics, George Harris of JazzWeekly praised her for “bridging the gap between jazz and African sounds,” a sentiment that resonates deeply with her. “This is truly God’s doing,” Douyé shares, expressing gratitude for her father’s encouragement and the artistic gifts that allow her to honor her roots through music.

Produced in collaboration with jazz legends like Lionel Loueke, Sean Jones, and Buster Williams, The Golden Sèkèrè also features a lineup of celebrated Nigerian musicians, including Baba Ken Okulolo on bass, Najite Agindotan on percussion, and Olutosin Aribisola on drums. Douyé’s dedication to authenticity shines through, not only in her sound but in her visual style, as she personally designed all the outfits featured in the album’s artwork.

Outside of music, Douyé is an art collector, a fashion enthusiast, and a philanthropist. Her volunteer work with foster youth and community organizations inspires her songwriting, enriching her artistry with stories of resilience and hope. Fans can connect with Douyé on her social media platforms and follow her journey through her official website, where she shares her music, art, and ongoing projects.