{{Short description|Ghanaian singer-songwriter}} {{EngvarB|date=February 2015}} {{Use dmy dates|date=February 2015}} {{Infobox musical artist | name = Wiyaala | image = Wiyaala 1.jpg | image_size = 260px | caption = Wiyaala in 2014 | alt = | birth_name = Noella Wiyaala | alias = {{Plainlist| Wiyaala}} | birth_date = {{birth date and age|df=yes|1986|12|22}} | birth_place = {{nowrap|Wa, Upper West Ghana, Ghana}} | origin = {{nowrap|Tema, Ghana}} | genre = Dance, pop, Afro pop | instrument = vocals, guitar | occupation = Singer-songwriter, designer, actress, model, athlete | years_active = {{nowrap|2011–present}} | label = Djimba World Records, JTV Digital | past_member_of = Black N Peach | website = {{URL|http://wiyaala.com}} }}
'''Noella Wiyaala Nwadei'''<ref>{{Cite web |last=Baidoo |first=Justice |date=28 February 2018 |title=M.anifest, MzVee, Wiyala And Gary Al-Smith Support 'Left-Behind' Campaign |url=https://www.modernghana.com/news/838193/manifest-mzvee-wiyala-and-gary-al-smith-support-left-beh.html |access-date=26 November 2023 |website=Modern Ghana}}</ref> (known under the stage name '''Wiyaala'''; born on 22 December 1986) is a Ghanaian Afro-pop singer-songwriter who sings in her native language Sissala and Waala dialects and English, often combining all three languages within her songs.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |date=2014-11-20 |title=Wiyaala in Concert: The Making of an African Legend |url=https://circumspecte.com/2014/11/wiyaala-in-concert-the-making-of-an-african-legend/ |access-date=2023-11-27 |website=Circumspecte |language=en-US}}</ref> '''Wiyaala''' means "the doer" in the Sissala dialect.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wiyaala.com/bio|title=BIO|website=WIYAALA|language=en-US|access-date=2019-03-23}}</ref> She achieved fame with her single "Make Me Dance"<ref>{{cite web |title=Video: Noella Wiyaala - Make Me Dance |url=http://afromuzik.com/site/noella-wiyaala-make-me-dance/ |access-date=10 October 2018 |website=Afromusik.}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=8 October 2013 |title=Wiyaala goes global with first international release |url=http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/artikel.php?ID=288321 |access-date=10 October 2018 |website=Ghanaweb.}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=2013-10-07 |title=Make Me Dance – Wiyaala |url=https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/make-me-dance-single/id705878795Her |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105214721/https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/make-me-dance-single/id705878795Her |url-status=dead |archive-date=5 November 2013 |access-date=2013-10-17 |website=iTunes.}}</ref> and her androgynous image.<ref>{{cite web |date=2013-10-01 |title="The Young Lioness Of Africa" Releases First Single |url=https://www.prweb.com/releases/_the_young_lioness_of_africa_releases_first_single/prweb11176118.htm |access-date=2013-10-17 |website=Prweb}}</ref> After making her name in reality shows in Accra, she established a solo career in 2013 with the hit single "Rock My Body",(Dance move was initiated by Van Calebs)<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-01-03 |title=choreography in africa through the eyes of quintessential ghanaian dancer |url=https://tribuneonlineng.com/choreography-in-africa-through-the-eyes-of-quintessential-ghanaian-dancer/ |newspaper=Nigerian Tribune}}</ref> which won her two awards at the 2014 first edition of the All Africa Music Awards,<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 March 2017 |title=Wiyaala drops follow up to 'Rock My Body' |url=https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/Wiyaala-drops-follow-up-to-Rock-My-Body-521170 |access-date=2019-03-02 |website=GhanaWeb |language=en}}</ref> the Most Promising Artiste in Africa and Revelation of The African Continent. Wiyaala is also associated with UNICEF Ghana and the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection's campaigns against child marriage, child poverty, health and sanitation. She headlined the 15th London African Music Festival in London.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://citifmonline.com/2017/09/13/wiyaala-headlines-london-african-music-festivals-launch-party/|title= Wiyaala headlines London African Music Festival's launch party |website=Citifmonline.com|date=2017-09-27 |access-date=2017-09-27}}</ref> In March 2021, she was among the Top 30 Most Influential Women in Music by the 3Music Awards Women's Brunch.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-03-05|title=3Music Awards organisers name Top 30 Women in Music|url=https://citinewsroom.com/2021/03/3music-awards-organisers-name-top-30-women-in-music/|access-date=2021-03-17|website=Citinewsroom - Comprehensive News in Ghana|language=en-US}}</ref>
== Life and career == ===Early life=== Noella Wiyaala was born in Wa, Upper West Ghana as one of four sisters<ref name="Interview">{{cite web|url=http://www.africaontheblog.com/interview-with-wiyaala-the-young-lioness-of-africa/ |title=Wiyaala: The Young Lioness of Africa |author=Freedes |website=AfricaOnTheBlog.com |date=2013-11-06 |access-date=2013-11-09}}</ref> and grew up in Funsi and Tumu. She got first singing lessons from her mother, a choir singer in the local church,<ref name="Afromusion">{{cite web|url=http://www.modernghana.com/music/21306/3/afromusion-one-on-one-interview-with-noella-wiyaal.html |title=Afromusion: One On One Interview With: Noella Wiyaala |website=ModernGhana.com |date=2013-05-10 |access-date=2013-10-16}}</ref> and she has performed ever since she was 5 years old.<ref name="Wiyaala.com">{{cite web|url=http://wiyaala.com/bio/ |title=Wiyaala.com |website=Wiyaala.com |access-date=2013-10-16}}</ref> Her surname, which she picked for a stage name, means "the doer" in her native Sisaala language.<ref name="Wiyaala.com" /> During her late teenage years, she played football as a midfielder.<ref name="AMOAFOWAA" /> She attended Kanton Secondary School in Tumu, where she acquired a reputation for being a tom-boy, playing football and was in demand as a dancer and entertainer in school productions. She also attended Takoradi Polytechnic and studied art and design .<ref name="360nobs">{{cite web|url=http://www.360nobs.com/2013/11/360fresh-introducing-the-doer-wiyaala/ |title=360Fresh: Introducing the doer…Wiyaala! |author=LuSea |website=360nobs.com |date=2013-11-03 |access-date=2013-11-03}}</ref><ref name="Fashionista">{{cite web|url=http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/artikel.php?ID=340648 |title=Fashionista: A look @ Wiyaala |author=Dorcas Aba Annan |date=2014-12-27 |access-date=2015-01-07}}</ref>
In 2018, Wiyaala disclosed in an interview with Becky on the ''E with Becks'' show on Joy Prime, that she has been married for four years but would not disclose the name of her husband. Only four people were present at her wedding; a lawyer, a judge and her mum and dad.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2018-06-18 |title=Video: I've been married for 4 years – Wiyaala makes startling revelation |url=https://www.myjoyonline.com/entertainment/2018/June-13th/video-ive-been-married-for-4-years-wiyaala-makes-startling-revelation.php |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190323161236/https://www.myjoyonline.com/entertainment/2018/June-13th/video-ive-been-married-for-4-years-wiyaala-makes-startling-revelation.php |archive-date=2019-03-23 |access-date=2021-01-18 |website=Myjoyonline}}</ref>
===Musical career=== From early childhood in the Upper West Region of Ghana, Wiyaala was active as an entertainer, earning her first income as a performer in a local bar in Tamale. After completing Kanton Secondary High School, Wiyaala's musical career began in earnest when she joined the local music scene in Wa which centered around Echo Soundz Recording Studios. She performed at local events and recorded as a usually unpaid session singer for artists in the Upper West Region of Ghana.
In 2009, she recorded her first album ''Tuma'' ("Work") in the Sissala language at Echo Soundz Studios in Wa.<ref name="Interview" /> Songs like "Dannu" and "Dirik…" soon became local hits.
Looking to establish a national career, she made the journey to Accra to audition at Music reality show "Starz of the Future". Wiyaala did not impress her first two attempt, but at her third try in 2011, she went all the way to the finals, winning two Golden Moments awards.<ref name="Wiyaala.com" /> She won the 2012 Vodafone ICONS Mixed Edition hosted by fellow Ghanaian DJ "Benny Blanco", as part of the Ghanaian gband Black N Peach, while singing Tina Turner's "Simply The Best".<ref name="VodafoneICONS">{{cite web|url=http://www.gbcghana.com/index.php?id=1.907164 |title='Black n Peach' wins Vodafone ICONS Mixed Edition |publisher=Ghana Broadcasting Corporation |date=2012-05-22 |access-date=2013-10-17}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=Nii Atakora Mensah |date=2012-05-21 |title=Black N Peach wins Vodafone Icons: Mixed Edition |url=http://www.ghanamusic.com/news/top-stories/black-n-peach-wins-vodafone-icons-mixed-edition/index.html |access-date=2013-10-23 |website=Ghanamusic.}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=Ameyaw Debrah |title=Black N Peach wins Vodafone Icons: Mixed Edition |url=http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/blogs/blog.article.php?blog=1603&ID=1000151904 |access-date=2013-10-24 |website=Ghanaweb. |archive-date=29 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029193616/http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/blogs/blog.article.php?blog=1603&ID=1000151904 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
She left the Black N Peach band during April 2013, after having released one single ("Wonkoa"), to pursue a solo career with Djimba World Records. Her first release was "Make Me Dance" which featured Ghana's first-ever underwater scenes in a music video,<ref>{{cite journal|year=2013 |title=Vodafone Icon Noella shoots Ghana's first underwater video |journal=Flex Newspaper |issue=10 April 2013 |url=http://www.noella.co/press-media/ |access-date=2013-10-17}}</ref> and soon afterwards the single "Rock My Body", which quickly became a hit and won her two awards at the 2014 edition of All Africa Music Awards. Wiyaala won two of the coveted 23.9-carat gold-plated trophies for The Most Promising Artist in Africa and The Revelation of the African Continent.<ref>{{Cite web |date=29 December 2014 |title=Wiyaala wins double at All Africa Music Awards |url=https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/Wiyaala-wins-double-at-All-Africa-Music-Awards-340786 |access-date=2019-10-30 |website=GhanaWeb. |language=en}}</ref>
In November 2014, Wiyaala released her "official" debut album, the eponymously titled ''Wiyaala'' which was nominated for album of the year at the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards 2015 and at All Africa Music Awards 2015.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://afropop.org/articles/wiyaala|title=Afropop Worldwide {{!}} Wiyaala|website=Afropop Worldwide|language=en|access-date=2019-10-30}}</ref> She won Music Video of the Year with the song "Africa"on 2015 at All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Stonebwoy, Wiyaala win at 2015 All Africa Music Awards - MyJoyOnline.com |url=https://www.myjoyonline.com/entertainment/2015/November-16th/stonebwoy-wiyaala-win-at-2015-all-africa-music-awards.php |access-date=2019-10-30 |website=Myjoyonline.}}</ref>thumb|224x224px|Wiyaala in 2013
After receiving wide acclaims in Ghana and in Africa, Wiyaala began to tour other continents in 2015, performing first in Europe at the Hague African Festival in the Netherlands and later in North America at the Afrikadey Festival in Calgary, Canada. In 2016, at WOMAD UK where the Irish Times noted: "''Feisty is not the word – she (Wiyaala) is a powerhouse in the mode of a young Angelique Kidjo, Effervescent and funny, she rocked the crowd and got a great reception''" Wiyaala also joined In Place of War's "Voices of The Revolution" directed by Errollyn Wallen, an international collection of female musicians from countries of conflict around the world performing at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club and UK festivals including Shambala, Hull Freedom Festival.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Wiyaala Thrills Patrons At The Hague African Festival In Netherlands |url=https://www.modernghana.com/ghanahome/photos/event_album.asp?parent_id=73664&action=view |access-date=2019-10-30 |website=Modernghana.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=11 August 2015 |title=Wiyaala rocks Canada at Afrikadey Festival |url=https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/Wiyaala-rocks-Canada-at-Afrikadey-Festival-374407 |access-date=2019-10-30 |website=Ghanaweb. |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.londonlive.co.uk/news/2016-08-23/female-musicians-from-countries-of-conflict-come-together-in-london|title=Female musicians from countries of conflict come together in London|date=2016-08-23|website=London Live|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-10-30}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Guest post – Nigel Wood at Womad {{!}} On The Record |url=https://www.irishtimes.com/blogs/ontherecord/2016/08/04/guest-post-nigel-wood-at-womad-2/ |access-date=2019-10-30 |website=irishtimes}}</ref>
In 2018, Wiyaala, alongside Ilhan Omar, the first Somali-American to be elected into the US Congress and Sahle-Work Zewde, Ethiopia's first female president and others, was selected as one of BBC News "African Women We Celebrated in 2018".<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/av/world-africa-46619572/african-women-we-celebrated-in-2018|title=African women we celebrated in 2018|work=BBC News|language=en-GB|access-date=2019-10-30}}</ref>
Wiyalaa toured Europe<ref>{{cite web|url=https://celebritiesbuzzgh.com/full-list-of-wiyaalas-europe-tour-2019-and-their-dates/ |title=Full List of Wiyaala's Europe Tour 2019 And Their Dates |author=Abdul Sultan Olufemi |website=CelebritiesBuzzGh.Com |date=2019-06-15}}</ref> again in 2019.
In October 2024, Wiyaala partnered with Dominik Jud (professionally known as Dodo), a Swiss musician.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-10-23 |title=Swiss musician Dodo teams up with Wiyaala, Wanluv, Jimmy James, Niashun, Sir Jermaine - MyJoyOnline |url=https://www.myjoyonline.com/swiss-musician-dodo-teams-up-with-wiyaala-wanluv-jimmy-james-niashun-sir-jermaine/ |access-date=2024-10-24 |website=www.myjoyonline.com |language=en-US}}</ref>
She is featured on [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slovenia Slovenian] industrial band [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laibach Laibach's] 2026 album Musick in the title track and the album's first single Allgorythm.<ref>https://music.mxdwn.com/2026/02/12/news/laibach-announces-new-album-musick-for-may-2026-release-shares-new-single-video-allgorhythm/</ref>
===Activism=== Wiyaala is outspoken on the male-dominated culture and polygyny of some African countries and to stand up for women's rights and against family violence in her native Ghana.<ref name="Interview" /><ref name="AMOAFOWAA" /><ref name="360nobs" /><ref name="BrandFabulous">{{cite web|url=http://brandfabulousness.blogspot.ro/2013/10/afro-pop-feminist-singer-wiyaala.html |title=Afro-pop feminist singer Wiyaala |author=Brian Stout |publisher=Brand Fabulous Blog |date=2013-10-16 |access-date=2013-11-04}}</ref> Her song "Tinambayai" in Sisaala language has been regarded as a protest against the exploitation of women in Africa.<ref name="Sachi">{{cite web |url=http://blog.plug.dj/2013/12/meet-wiyaala-the-young-lioness-of-africa/ |title=Meet Wiyaala, The Young Lioness of Africa |author=Sachi |website=Plug.dj |date=2013-12-02 |access-date=2013-12-12 |archive-date=3 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203042922/http://blog.plug.dj/2013/12/meet-wiyaala-the-young-lioness-of-africa/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> Wiyaala was featured on the BBC, talking about early child marriage<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-27926780 |title=Ghana beats: Wiyaala's 'war song' |publisher=BBC News |date=2014-06-20 |access-date=2016-06-15}}</ref> and declaring her support for feminism as a means to encourage young girls into completing their education so that they can be the ones that make the choices in their lives. She said her success will serve as an example to her community that there was a future for young women beyond early or forced marriage.<ref name="Interview" /><ref name="AMOAFOWAA" /><ref name="GhanaGist" /> "Make Me Dance" was included in the top of feminist songs for the 2013 winter by Bitch feminist magazine.<ref name="Bitch">{{cite web|url=http://bitchmagazine.org/post/november-new-feminist-music-roundup |title=Ten New Feminist Songs for Winter |author=Katie Presley |publisher=Bitch Media |date=2013-12-04 |access-date=2013-12-12}}</ref>
Wiyaala has partnered with the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection of Ghana's government and UNICEF on several projects to help protect the rights of children and public health issues.
== Musical style == Wiyaala sings both in English and her native language Sisaala. She writes her songs herself.<ref name="Akatasia.com">{{cite web |url=http://akatasia.com/music-2/questions-with-afro-pop-artist-wiyaala/ |title=Questions With Afro Pop Artist Noella Wiyaala |website=Akatasia.com |date=2013-07-17 |access-date=2013-10-17 |archive-date=17 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131017174407/http://akatasia.com/music-2/questions-with-afro-pop-artist-wiyaala/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="DiversityRules">{{cite web |url=http://diversityrulesmagazine.blogspot.com/2013/11/wiyaala.html |title=Wiyaala releases new single entitled, "Make Me Dance" |publisher=Diversity Rules Magazine |date=2013-11-03 |access-date=2013-11-05 |archive-date=6 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131106212238/http://diversityrulesmagazine.blogspot.com/2013/11/wiyaala.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> She has earned praises for her bold and powerful voice and distinguished timbre.<ref name="Interview" /> She credits Madonna, Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston and Tina Turner as her role models and inspiration.<ref name="Akatasia.com" /> She also expressed admiration for African artists like Angelique Kidjo, Miriam Makeba and Brenda Fassie.<ref name="Interview" /> Her song "Africa" which earned her a continental award in 2015 was inspired by the Mama Africa song by compatriot, Sherifa Gunu.<ref name="Flex">{{cite journal |author=Abdullai Isshak |year=2014 |title=Noella To Promote Peace And Unity |journal=Flex Newspaper |issue=308 |pages=3}}</ref> She has often been called "man-woman"<ref name="Wiyaala.com" /> and she has built her brand around the androgynous image of herself and for that she has been compared to Jamaican singer, Grace Jones.<ref name="FashionGhana">{{cite web |author=Ellisha Boie |date=5 May 2013 |title=Pop Sensation Noella Wiyaala Leeds The Androgyny Trend in Ghana |url=http://www.fashionghana.com/site/pop-sensation-noella-wiyaala-leeds-the-androgyny-trend-in-ghana/ |access-date=2013-10-17 |website=FashionGhana.}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://afromuzik.com/site/noella-wiyaala-make-me-dance/ |title=Noella Wiyaala – Make Me Dance |author=Jean-Claude |website=Afromuzik.com |date=2013-04-06 |access-date=2013-10-20}}</ref>
Her music style has been described as Afro-pop<ref name="Akatasia.com" /> or Afro-rock<ref name="spyghana.com">{{cite web |date=2013-04-10 |title=Noella Wiyaala goes solo with her new single 'Make Me Dance' |url=http://www.spyghana.com/noella-wiyaala-goes-solo-with-her-new-single-make-me-dance/ |access-date=2013-10-23 |website=AmeyawDebrah}}</ref> with elements of tribal folk music<ref name="Sachi" /> while the latest single "Rock My Body", released in June 2013 together with Ghanaian reggae singer Jupitar leans more towards reggae and dancehall.<ref name="AmeyawDebrah.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.ameyawdebrah.com/music-video-noella-wiyaala-rock-my-body/ |title=Music Video: Noella Wiyaala feat. Jupitar – Rock My Body |website=AmeyawDebrah.com |date=2013-06-19 |access-date=2013-10-17}}</ref> Wiyaala cited as inspiration the 1969 song "Wreck A Buddy" by Nora Dean and The Soul Sisters.<ref name="Akatasia.com" /> She did also perform in the opening of the 2014 Stanbic Ghana jazz festival.<ref name="Stanbic">{{cite web |url=http://www.ameyawdebrah.com/standing-ovation-stanbic-ghana-jazz-festival-comes-successful-end |title=A standing ovation!Stanbic Ghana Jazz festival comes to a successful end |author=Ameyaw Debrah |website=AmeyawDebrah.com |date=2014-05-12 |access-date=2014-08-20 |archive-date=19 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140819025801/http://www.ameyawdebrah.com/standing-ovation-stanbic-ghana-jazz-festival-comes-successful-end/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>
The single "Go Go Black Stars...Goal!", released in April 2014, on the Djimba World Records label, sung in English and Ghanaian languages, also features tribal drums and stadium choruses.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.viasat1.com.gh/vone/midstory.php?postId=306 |title=Wiyaala drops World Cup song for Black Stars |website=Viasat1.com.gh |date=2014-04-23 |access-date=2014-08-20}}</ref> The same song had been picked up as the unofficial hymn of the national football team of Ghana for the 2014 World Cup.<ref name="World Cup Songs">{{cite web|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/list/6106273/world-cup-songs-7-team-anthems-pop-stars-listen-stromae-gary-barlow-annee |title=World Cup Songs: 7 International Team Anthems With Pop Star Mojo |author=Nick Williams |website=Billboard.com |date=2014-05-30 |access-date=2014-08-18}}</ref>
Wiyaala got nominated as Best Sporting Artist in Ghana Sports Excellence Awards 2014.<ref>{{cite web |date=2014-11-24 |title=Wiyaala, Asamoah Gyan, Bisa, Marcel Desailly nominated for Sports Excellence Awards |url=http://www.ameyawdebrah.com/wiyaala-asamoah-gyan-bisa-marcel-desailly-nominated-sports-excellence-awards/ |access-date=2014-12-03 |website=AmeyawDebrah.}}</ref>
== Discography == thumb|281x281px|Wiyaala (right) performing with her band Wiyaala's first release after the breakup with Black N Peach was the single "Make Me Dance". Originally produced by "Genius Selection" in Ghana, it has been remixed in Los Angeles by "Bill Delia" for the international market. "Make Me Dance", along with an acoustic version, will be distributed on the "Djimba World Records" label under exclusive license to Paris-based "JTV Digital".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jtvdigital.com/blog-fr/young-lioness-africa-releases-first-single-3/?lang=fr |title="The Young Lioness Of Africa" Releases First Single |publisher=JTV Digital |access-date=2013-10-21}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=Ameyaw Debrah |date=2013-10-07 |title=Vodafone Icons winner, Noella Wiyaala inks international distribution and publishing deal with JTV Digital |url=http://www.ameyawdebrah.com/vodafone-icons-winner-noella-wiyaala-inks-intertional-distribution-publishing-deal-jtv-digital/ |access-date=2013-10-21 |website=AmeyawDebrah.}}</ref> The single has been released internationally on 7 October 2013, and it is available on iTunes.
The music video "Make Me Dance" was shot in the studio and on location at Prampram. It features Wiyaala in scenes shot underwater and dancers from the Henokami Culture Troupe from New Ningo. Wiyaala had to take swimming lessons for the best performance while on camera.<ref name="spyghana.com" />
"Make Me Dance" got released also in remixed form in Nu-disco, Breakbeat, Drum and bass and Trance styles on 9 December 2013.<ref name="Interview" /> The "Make Me Dance" Remix EP was mastered in the Paris-based La Source Mastering Studio and released worldwide through Djimba World Records.<ref name="OMGGhana">{{cite web|url=http://omgghana.com/new-wiyaala-make-dance-ep-dec-9/ |title=New Wiyaala 'Make me Dance' EP out Dec. 9 |author=BabyBash |publisher=OMGGhana |date=2013-12-04 |access-date=2013-12-12}}</ref> On 8 December 2013, Wiyaala and Plug.dj held an online-only listening party of the "Make Me Dance" Remixes EP before the official release.<ref name="PlugDJ">{{cite web |date=2013-12-04 |title=Wiyaala And Plug.dj Join Forces For Online Listening Party |url=https://www.prweb.com/releases/wiyaala_and_plug_dj_join_forces_for_online_listening_party/prweb11390788.htm |access-date=2013-12-12 |website=Prweb.}}</ref>
On 28 February 2014, Wiyaala released a new single, "You Got The Power", again distributed on the "Djimba World Records" label.<ref>{{cite web |author=Daniel Falconer |date=2014-02-26 |title=Exclusive preview of Wiyaala's new track 'You Got The Power' |url=http://www.femalefirst.co.uk/music/features/exclusive-preview-wiyaala-you-got-the-power-427635.html |access-date=2014-03-07 |website=FemaleFirst United Kingdom}}</ref> The single is also available on iTunes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/us/album/you-got-the-power-single/825870802 |title=You Got The Power – Single |publisher=iTunes |date=2014-02-28 |access-date=2014-03-07}}</ref>
Her self-titled album was launched in November 2014 at the Alliance Française in Accra. Wiyaala performed songs from her album and other local and international superstars. The show also witnessed picturesque dance performance from Flash Mob Ghana. One major highlight of the event was when her parents joined her on the stage to perform, backed by the Vodafone Icons contestants.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pilatoghnews.com/photos-wiyaala-launches-debut-album/ |title=Wiyaala Launches Debut Album |author=DerrickAsare |website=PilatoghNews.com |date=2014-11-18 |access-date=2014-12-04}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://instaghana.blogspot.com/2014/11/photos-wiyaalas-awesome-performances-at.html |title=Wiyaala's awesome performances at her Album launch |website=InstaGhana.blogspot.com |date=2014-11-18 |access-date=2015-01-28}}</ref> She also released her song "Angel" in early December 2014 during Viasat 1's ''The One Show''.<ref name="OneShow">{{cite web |date=2014-12-11 |title=Wiyaala to celebrate Christmas with a Gospel Song |url=http://www.spyghana.com/wiyaala-celebrate-christmas-gospel-song/ |access-date=2015-01-06 |website=Spyghana}}</ref> The video of the single "Africa" taken from the album won Video of the Year at the All Africa Music Awards in November 2015.
During the first edition of the All Africa Music Awards held on 27 December 2014 in Lagos, Wiyaala won two of the coveted 23.9-carat gold-plated trophies for "The Most Promising Artiste in Africa" and "The Revelation of the African Continent".<ref name="GhanaGist" /> She has been commended by Vodafone for her achievements<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.dailyguideghana.com/vodafone-commends-wiyaala/ |location=Accra, Ghana|title=Vodafone Commends Wiyaala |date=2015-01-12 |access-date=2015-01-28|newspaper=Daily Guide}}</ref> and hailed as a youth icon and an inspiration for young Ghanaians to strive for success.
In 2015, Wiyaala received six nominations for the Vodafone Ghana Music Awards winning Best Songwriter and Best Female Vocal. At the second edition of the All African Music Awards 2015, Wiyaala won the best Video for "Africa" directed by Stanley Ajjetey. 2015 saw features on AJ Nelson's "Power to The People"<ref>{{cite web|url=https://kasapafmonline.com/2015/11/25/new-music-power-to-the-people-aj-nelson-ft-wiyaala/ |title=New Music: 'Power to the people' – AJ Nelson ft. Wiyaala |author=Edward Acquah |date=25 November 2015 |publisher=Kasapa FM Online |access-date=2016-06-12}}</ref> and Dark Suburb's "Mama".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.talkmediaghana.com/exclusive-dark-suburb-mama-feat-wiyaala/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150814222136/http://www.talkmediaghana.com/exclusive-dark-suburb-mama-feat-wiyaala/ |url-status=usurped |archive-date=14 August 2015 |title=EXCLUSIVE: DARK SUBURB – MAMA (FEAT. WIYAALA) |publisher=Talk Media Ghana |date=2015-08-14 |access-date=2016-06-12}}</ref>
In December 2018, Wiyaala released her second album ''Sissala Goddess'', preceded by the singles "Village Sex" and "When the Lord Get Us Ready".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://open.spotify.com/album/2t7fopdujSig2MYNDnJjbm?si=a9v3ituFTsK23cl7oLTpQw|title = Sissala Goddess|website = Spotify|date = 8 December 2018}}</ref> She released music videos for both, as well as one for the fourteenth track on the album ''Feeling Free''.<ref>{{cite AV media| url-status = live| archive-url = https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211210/uP9Dsk5QVzI| archive-date = 2021-12-10| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uP9Dsk5QVzI| title = VILLAGE SEX - WIYAALA (OFFICIAL VIDEO) | website=YouTube}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211210/lfVgXAkHXgs Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20180902031125/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfVgXAkHXgs&gl=US&hl=en Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite AV media| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfVgXAkHXgs| title = Wiyaala - When The Lord Get Us Ready - Official Video | website=YouTube}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref name="youtube.com">Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211210/DPZpg8KaapQ Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20190220161219/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPZpg8KaapQ&gl=US&hl=en Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite AV media| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPZpg8KaapQ| title = Wiyaala - Feeling Free - Official Video | website=YouTube}}{{cbignore}}</ref>
== Films and television == Wiyaala made her TV acting debut in late 2013 in the Viasat 1 hit comedy series ''MultiKoloured''.<ref>{{cite web |date=2013-12-20 |title=Noella Wiyaala grabs Pepsi ambassadorial deal |url=http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/artikel.php?ID=295770 |access-date=2014-03-07 |website=Ghanaweb.}}</ref>
In February 2016 Wiyaala made her movie debut in the Ghanaian feature film ''No Man’s Land''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ghanafilmindustry.com/no-mans-land-movie-premiere/ |title="No Man's Land" Starring Wiyaala, Salma Mumin, Adjetey Anang and More, Premieres on 13th February |author=Mimi Sakib |publisher=Ghana Film Industry |date=2016-01-22 |access-date=2016-06-14 |archive-date=11 August 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160811142537/http://www.ghanafilmindustry.com/no-mans-land-movie-premiere/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> and for which she has been nominated as the Golden Discovery 2016 at the Golden Movie Awards.
== Fashion ==
Wiyaala got nominated "Female Personality of the Year" at the 2014 Ghana's Fashion Icon Awards, with a dress sketched and designed by herself.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fashionmaniagh.com/2014/06/fashion-icon-awards-female-personality.html |title=FASHION ICON AWARDS FEMALE PERSONALITY NOMINEE WIYAALA NOELLA REVEALS WHO IS BEHIND HER UNIQUE FASHION STYLE |author=Bashiru Olu Wasiu-Ayinde |publisher=FashionManiaGh |access-date=2014-08-20}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ameyawdebrah.com/hit-miss-check-wiyaalas-elaborate-dress-gtp-nustyle-launch/ |title=Hit or Miss? Check out Wiyaala's elaborate dress to GTP NuStyle launch |author=Ameyaw Debrah |date=2014-06-07 |access-date=2014-08-20 |archive-date=21 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140821210320/http://www.ameyawdebrah.com/hit-miss-check-wiyaalas-elaborate-dress-gtp-nustyle-launch/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> She designs her stage dresses and jewellery<ref name="AMOAFOWAA">{{cite web|url=http://amoafowaa.com/2014/12/17/know-all-about-noella-wiyaala-from-her-naughties-to-her-angelics/ |title=Know all about Noella Wiyaala; from her Naughties to her Angelics |publisher=AMOAFOWAA |date=2014-12-18 |access-date=2015-01-28}}</ref> to showcase the culture of the people from her home region.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://ghanaagent.com/entertainment/fashion/item/2514-fashionista-a-look-wiyaala |title=Fashionista: A look @ Wiyaala |author=Will Arthur |publisher=Ghana Agent |date=2014-12-29 |access-date=2015-01-28 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304063356/http://ghanaagent.com/entertainment/fashion/item/2514-fashionista-a-look-wiyaala |url-status=dead }}</ref> She has also been recognised for her style by winning the Best Individual Style Award at the Glitz 2015 Style Awards.
Recognized for her sense of fashion, stage dressing and style, Wiyaala is influential throughout the world with Hong Kong's South China Morning Post citing her as a role model.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/2169632/what-hongkongers-can-learn-noella-wiyaala-ghanaian-pop-star|title=What city's women must learn about being strong and beautiful|date=2018-10-22|website=South China Morning Post|language=en|access-date=2019-10-30}}</ref>
== Philanthropy == '''Wiyaala''' has made her intentions clear to recruit, groom, and sponsor young talents from Funsi and its surroundings as her way of giving back to society.<ref>{{Cite web |date=30 January 2019 |title=Wiyaala to recruit, groom and sponsor young local talents in Funsi and its surrounding villages |url=https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/entertainment/Wiyaala-to-recruit-groom-and-sponsor-young-local-talents-in-Funsi-and-its-surrounding-villages-719435 |access-date=2019-03-23 |website=GhanaWeb. |language=en}}</ref> She built an Arts and Culture Center in her community.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Amaarae, Cina Soul, Gyakie, Adina, Theresa Ayoade, others named in 3Music Awards' Top 30 Women in Music list - MyJoyOnline.com |url=https://www.myjoyonline.com/amaarae-cina-soul-gyakie-adina-theresa-ayoade-others-named-in-3music-awards-top-30-women-in-music-list/ |access-date=2021-03-17 |website=Myjoyonline |date=5 March 2021 |language=en-US}}</ref>
==Videography== {{Incomplete list|date=January 2016}} {|class="wikitable" !Year !Title !Director !Ref !Album !Other Artists |- |2019 |''Feeling Free'' |Wiyaala |<ref name="youtube.com"/> |''Sissala Goddess'' |{{N/A}} |- |2018 |''When the Lord Get Us Ready'' | {{N/A}} | |''Sissala Goddess'' |{{N/A}} |- |2017 |''Village Sex'' |Stanley Adjetey |<ref>{{cite web |date=28 July 2017 |title=Music Video Wiyaala - Village Sex Singer makes a sensual return with a brand new love song titled Village Sex. |url=http://www.pulse.com.gh/entertainment/music/music-video-wiyaala-village-sex-id7064084.html |access-date=27 September 2017 |website=Pulse Ghana}}</ref> |''Sissala Goddess'' |{{N/A}} |- |- |2016 |''Sun And Moon'' |Charlotte Appleton | |''Wiyaala'' |{{N/A}} |- |- |2016 |''Leno'' |Charlotte Appleton |<ref>{{cite web |date=24 January 2016 |title=Trailer Wiyaala tastes first ever screen kiss in "Leno" music video |url=http://pulse.com.gh/music-videos/trailer-wiyaala-tastes-first-ever-screen-kiss-in-leno-music-video-id4599241.html |access-date=26 January 2016 |website=Pulse Ghana |archive-date=27 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160127004128/http://pulse.com.gh/music-videos/trailer-wiyaala-tastes-first-ever-screen-kiss-in-leno-music-video-id4599241.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> |''Wiyaala'' |{{N/A}} |- |2016 |''Power To The People'' |{{N/A}} |<ref>{{cite web |date=16 February 2016 |title=Video AJ Nelson releases official trailer for "Power To The People" featuring Wiyaala |url=http://pulse.com.gh/music-videos/video-aj-nelson-releases-official-trailer-for-power-to-the-people-featuring-wiyaala-id4693655.html |access-date=16 February 2016 |website=Pulse Ghana |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304103510/http://pulse.com.gh/music-videos/video-aj-nelson-releases-official-trailer-for-power-to-the-people-featuring-wiyaala-id4693655.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> |''Africa Rise'' |AJ Nelson |- |2015 |''Angel'' |Charlotte Appleton | |''Wiyaala'' |{{N/A}} |- |2015 |''This Is Who I Am'' |{{N/A}} |<ref>{{cite web |date=31 July 2015 |title=Music Video Ahmed Soultan - This Is Who I Am feat. Wiyaala |url=http://pulse.com.gh/music-videos/music-video-ahmed-soultan-this-is-who-i-am-feat-wiyaala-id4029280.html |access-date=25 February 2016 |website=Pulse Ghana |archive-date=12 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160312112057/http://pulse.com.gh/music-videos/music-video-ahmed-soultan-this-is-who-i-am-feat-wiyaala-id4029280.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> |Non-Album Single |{{N/A}} |- |2014 |''Africa'' |Stanley Ajjetey | |''Wiyaala'' |{{N/A}} |- |2014 |''Go Go Black Stars'' |Charlotte Appleton | |Non-Album Single |{{N/A}} |- |2013 |''Rock My Body'' |Charlotte Appleton | |Non-Album Single |Jupitaar |- |2013 |''Make Me Dance'' |Charlotte Appleton | |Non-Album Single |{{N/A}} |- |}
== Awards and nominations == {| class="wikitable" |- ! Year !! Organisation !! Award !! Work !! Result |- | rowspan="2"| 2013 || 4syte Music Video Awards || Best Discovery || Make Me Dance || {{nom}}<ref name="ghanacelebrities.com">{{cite web |url=http://www.ghanacelebrities.com/2013/10/06/photos-mtn-4syte-music-video-awards-2013-launched-full-nomination-list |title=PHOTOS + MTN 4syte Music Video Awards 2013 Launched We Have The Full Nomination List Here! |author=GC staff |website=GhanaCelebrities.com |date=2013-10-06 |access-date=2013-11-04 |archive-date=5 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131105090228/http://www.ghanacelebrities.com/2013/10/06/photos-mtn-4syte-music-video-awards-2013-launched-full-nomination-list |url-status=dead }}</ref> |- | 4syte Music Video Awards || Best Reggae/Dancehall || Rock My Body|| {{nom}}<ref name="360nobs" /> |- | rowspan="11"| 2014 || Bass Awards || Music Video of the Year (Dancehall) || Rock My Body|| {{nom}}<ref name="Bass">{{Cite news|url=http://graphic.com.gh/entertainment/music/24450-bass-awards-nominations-out.html |location=Accra, Ghana|title=Bass Awards nominations out |date=2014-06-05 |access-date=2014-08-20|newspaper=Daily Graphic}}</ref> |- | Bass Awards || Best Collaboration (Dancehall) || Rock My Body|| {{nom}}<ref name="Bass" /> |- | Bass Awards || Best Female Vocal Artist || Rock My Body|| {{nom}}<ref name="Bass" /> |- | All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) || Best Female Artiste in West Africa || Rock My Body|| {{nom}}<ref name="GhanaWeb">{{cite web |url=http://mobile.ghanaweb.com/wap.classic/article.php?ID=329238 |title=Wiyaala earns 4 nominations at AFRIMA |website=Ghanaweb.com |date=2014-10-07 |access-date=2014-11-30 |archive-date=10 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181010213531/http://mobile.ghanaweb.com/wap.classic/article.php?ID=329238 |url-status=dead }}</ref> |- | All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) || Most Promising Artiste in Africa || Rock My Body|| {{won}}<ref name="GhanaGist" /> |- | All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) || Best African Reggae, Ragga and Dancehall || Rock My Body|| {{nom}}<ref name="GhanaWeb" /> |- | All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) || Revelation of the African Continent || Rock My Body|| {{won}}<ref name="GhanaGist" /> |- | National Youth Authority Ghana || Youth Achievers Award || N/A|| {{won}}<ref name="GhanaGist">{{cite web|url=http://ghanagist.com/wiyaala-and-bro-philemon-win-gold-for-ghana-at-all-africa-music-awards/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150105210946/http://ghanagist.com/wiyaala-and-bro-philemon-win-gold-for-ghana-at-all-africa-music-awards/ |url-status=usurped |archive-date=5 January 2015 |title=Wiyaala and Bro Philemon Win Gold for Ghana at All Africa Music Awards |website=GhanaGist.com |date=2014-12-29 |access-date=2015-01-06}}</ref> |- | Sissala Prestige Awards || Female Personality of the Year || N/A|| {{won}}<ref name="GhanaGist" /> |- | Radio Progress Upper West Music Awards || Music Ambassador for the Upper West || N/A|| {{won}}<ref name="GhanaGist" /> |- | GH One TV ShowBiz Honours || Revelation of 2014 || N/A|| {{won}}<ref name="GhanaGist" /> |- | rowspan="7"| 2015 || Vodafone Ghana Music Awards || Best Female Vocal Performance || Tinambaynyi || {{won}}<ref name="JoyOnline">{{cite web|url=http://www.myjoyonline.com/entertainment/2015/April-12th/wiyaala-breaks-efyas-vocal-jinx-at-2015-vgma.php |title=Wiyaala breaks Efya's vocal 'jinx' at 2015 VGMAs |author=Ernest Dela Aglanu |publisher=MyJoyOnline |date=2015-04-12 |access-date=2015-04-21}}</ref> |- | Vodafone Ghana Music Awards || New Artiste of The Year || N/A|| {{nom}}<ref name="GhanaMusicAwards">{{cite web |url=http://www.ghanamusicawards.com/nominees.html |title=VGMA 2015 Nominees |publisher=Vodafone Ghana Music Awards |access-date=2015-04-21 |archive-date=3 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150503081421/http://www.ghanamusicawards.com/nominees.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> |- | Vodafone Ghana Music Awards || Album of The Year || Wiyaala || {{nom}}<ref name="GhanaMusicAwards" /> |- | Vodafone Ghana Music Awards || Songwriter of The Year || N/A|| {{won}}<ref name="Buzz">{{cite web |url=http://www.ameyawdebrah.com/wiyaala-evangelist-diana-asamoah-others-get-early-win-2015-ghana-music-awards-industry-awards/ |title=Wiyaala, Evangelist Diana Asamoah, others get early wins at 2015 Ghana Music Awards – Industry Awards |website=AmeyawDebrah.com |date=2015-04-07 |access-date=2015-04-21 |archive-date=21 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150521180443/http://www.ameyawdebrah.com/wiyaala-evangelist-diana-asamoah-others-get-early-win-2015-ghana-music-awards-industry-awards/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> |- | Vodafone Ghana Music Awards || Record of The Year || Tinambaynyi || {{nom}}<ref name="GhanaMusicAwards" /> |- | Vodafone Ghana Music Awards || Afro-Pop Song of The Year || Tinambaynyi || {{nom}}<ref name="GhanaMusicAwards" /> |- | Glitz Style Awards || Best Individual Style || N/A || {{won}} |- | rowspan="1"| 2016 || Golden Movie Awards || Best Discovery || No Man's Land || {{nom}} |- | rowspan="1"| 2017 || All Africa Music Awards || Best African Rock || Village Sex|| {{nom}}<ref>{{cite web|url=https://yfmghana.com/wiyaalas-village-sex-nominated-for-best-african-rock-at-all-africa-music-awards/|title=Wiyaala's 'Village Sex' nominated for Best African Rock at All Africa Music Awards|first=Isshak|last=Abdullai|website=Yfmghana.com|date=19 August 2017 |access-date=10 October 2018}}</ref> |- |2017 |Ghana Women Awards Honours |Young and Gifted |N/A |{{won}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage//Shirley-Frimpong-Manso-Wiyaala-others-honoured-2017-Ghana-Women-of-the-year-honours-537951|title=Shirley Frimpong Manso, Wiyaala, others honoured @ 2017 Ghana Women of the year honours|website=www.ghanaweb.com|language=en|access-date=2019-03-02}}{{Dead link|date=December 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}</ref> |- |2019 |Ghana music awards UK 2019 |Best international touring act |N/A |{{won}}<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-10-07 |title=Ghana Music Awards UK 2019: All the winners |url=https://www.musicinafrica.net/magazine/ghana-music-awards-uk-2019-all-winners |access-date=2023-11-26 |website=Music In Africa |language=en}}</ref> |}
In December 2024, Noella Wiyaala Nwadei was included on the BBC's ''100 Women'' list.<ref name=bbc>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/resources/idt-4f79d09b-655a-42f8-82b4-9b2ecebab611|title=BBC 100 Women 2024: Who is on the list this year?|publisher=BBC|date=3 December 2024|accessdate=3 December 2024 |language=}}</ref> == Tour == *[https://celebritiesbuzzgh.com/full-list-of-wiyaalas-europe-tour-2019-and-their-dates/ Full List of Wiyaala’s Europe Tour 2019 And Their Dates] *[https://3news.com/wiyaala-to-take-europe-by-storm/ Wiyaala European tour 2019]
==References== {{Reflist}}
==External links== {{sisterlinks|d=Q16231624|c=Category:Noella Wiyaala|n=no|b=no|v=no|voy=no|m=no|mw=no|s=no|wikt=no|species=no}} * {{AllMusic|id=mn0003511767|title=Wiyaala}} * {{Discogs artist}}
{{Authority control}}
Category:1986 births Category:Living people Category:People from Upper West Region Category:Takoradi Technical University alumni Category:21st-century Ghanaian women singers Category:21st-century Ghanaian singers Category:Ghanaian singer-songwriters Category:Ghanaian women activists Category:Ghanaian feminists