“I was told playing talking drum might prevent me from having kids’ – Ara The Drummer

Renowned talking drummer and cultural ambassador to the Ooni of Ife, Ara (Aralola Olamuyiwa), shared her inspiring story of overcoming adversity on the latest episode of the ‘Terms And Conditions’ podcast.

As Africa’s first female talking drummer, Ara revealed that she faced discouragement from others who warned her that playing the talking drum would hinder her ability to bear children.

Ara’s determination and passion for her craft enabled her to break down barriers and push beyond the limitations imposed by societal beliefs.

She said,

“There are some drums females cannot play. I started with the traditional drums. But I evolved over the years. I played different instruments like bass guitar, keyboard, and set drums.

“But I wanted something different, so I started learning how to play the talking drum. People I asked to teach me were skeptical about teaching me because I am a woman. So I am self-taught.

“Although at some point, I was afraid. I was like, ‘what could happen to me?’ They were like, ‘you might not be able to have kids.’ It’s a traditional thing but I broke that jinx.”