Niniola Channels Grief Into Emotional New Single “Raining (O Dun Mi)”
Nigerian singer Niniola Apata, widely known as the Queen of Afro-House, is channeling her grief and memories into her emotional new single, “Raining (O Dun Mi),” following the death of her husband and longtime manager, Michael Ndika, in May 2026.
The Afro-house artist’s latest song, released on August 14, serves as a deeply personal tribute to Ndika, capturing the pain of loss while reflecting her journey toward healing.
Niniola has built a reputation for championing Afro-House with her distinctive sound, earning international recognition and a Grammy nomination for her songwriting contribution to Beyoncé’s The Lion King: The Gift.
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She shared the song with an emotional message on Instagram, dedicating it to everyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one.
“For everyone who has ever lost someone, this is for you,” she wrote.
She continued by reflecting on the tears, pain, and memories that remain after loss, describing “Raining (O Dun Mi)” as “the melody to it all.”
The accompanying visual mirrors the song’s emotional weight. Set in a minimalist white studio, Niniola appears dressed in black while surrounded by flowing fabric. Her movements and expressions convey vulnerability as she navigates the emotions at the heart of the song.
The stripped-back visual keeps the focus on Niniola’s performance, using the stark setting and movement of the fabric to evoke the feeling of being overwhelmed by grief and memories.
Through “Raining (O Dun Mi),” Niniola transforms a deeply painful experience into music, offering a tribute to Ndika while connecting with others who have experienced loss.
The single is out now and available to stream.
