Tayo Sound
AKA: Tayo Gillies Oyekan, Tayo Adeoluwa Isaiah Gillies Oyekan, Tayo Oyekan
Tayo Sound, born Tayo Gillies Oyekan in 2002, is a Nigerian-Scottish singer, songwriter, and producer from Reading, England. He began playing guitar at the age of four and started writing music by nine, penning his debut single “Broken” at just 14. After leaving school at 16, Tayo busked full-time in Reading, saving up to purchase production software and record his own demos.
Tayo’s multicultural background deeply influences his sound, blending elements of alt-pop, soul, African drum rhythms, and Scottish folk storytelling into a distinctive style marked by laid-back grooves and thoughtful lyricism. Drawing inspiration from a wide range of genres—including grome, drill, Indian pop, and alternative acts—he crafts songs that are both personal and universally relatable.
His breakthrough came with the release of his debut EP Runaway in 2021, featuring tracks like “Cold Feet” and “Someone New”, which earned critical acclaim and millions of streams. Tayo Sound has since performed at notable festivals and venues, further establishing his reputation as an emerging voice in the UK and international music scenes. Known for his DIY approach, eclectic taste, and emotive songwriting, Tayo Sound continues to captivate audiences with his authentic and genre-blending artistry.