Isreal Akindipe, known by friends as Ọlá, is a songwriter, clarinetist, bandleader, teacher, and founding member of the non- profit organization “Tra.I.N” (Transformation in Nigeria).

Born in Lagos Nigeria, he grew up surrounded by the vibrant culture and spirited music of his people. He spent much of his childhood writing poems and making tunes. 

Even though his parents were not able to afford music lessons for him, Ọlá decided to pursue music as a career when he was 17. He taught himself music theory online and from old music books and was lent a clarinet by the music director of his local church, Mr Oluwasegun Adeleke, who played a huge role in his musical development. Ọlá received a full MTN Foundation scholarship to study at the Musical Society Of Nigeria (MUSON) where he emerged winner of the Musiquest Youth Competition and also won the David Nwamara Prize For Woodwind Performance.

In 2019, he got a full scholarship to study at Trinity Laban Conservatoire Of Music And Dance where he proposed a project which led to the formation of his band, “The Amalgam”, in 2021.

Inspired by his lack of access to music education as a child, Ọlá co-founded his non-profit organization with Adebisi Ajiboye, to provide for the educational needs of children, supporting them with school fees and school materials.

Ọlá spends most of his time creating, playing or teaching music and working for his NGO to provide accessible education for children.