PREMIERE: Love Itoya ft: Two Tigers - Like I Do (Single) + 10 Questions
Love Itoya Returns with "Like I Do": A Fierce, Feel-Good Anthem of Self-Worth and Summer Confidence.
Fresh off the heels of her critically acclaimed single “Money Won’t Buy Peace”, award-winning artist Love Itoya is back—bolder, brighter, and more empowered than ever. Her new track “Like I Do” drops on Saturday, June 14, and it's everything we didn’t know we needed this summer: vibrant, uplifting, unapologetic.
Blending Afro-inspired rhythms with high-energy pop melodies, “Like I Do” is a powerful collaboration between Love Itoya and Afro-Italian duo Two Tigers, produced by The Breed—the sonic architect known for his work with Anderson .Paak. The result? A global-sounding record with deeply personal roots, made to move bodies and stir souls.
Love describes “Like I Do” as “a celebration of bold self-expression,” and the track delivers just that. With infectious hooks, percussive drive, and an undeniable sense of joy, this song is a sonic pep talk—perfect for summer playlists, festival stages, and anyone needing a reminder of their own power.
But Love Itoya’s music goes deeper than just good vibes. Born in Thessaloniki, Greece to Nigerian parents of Edo and Esan heritage, and now based in London, Love is a fearless fusion artist—pulling from Afro, soul, pop, and contemporary sounds to tell stories of identity, confidence, healing, and self-worth. She’s not just singing; she’s standing for something.
Her recent run of releases has solidified her as one of the most exciting voices in Afro-European pop fusion. After the introspective “Space” and the celebratory “Classic” (a Black History Month collab with Virtuo), “Money Won’t Buy Peace” reminded us that Itoya’s music is always rooted in meaning. Now, with “Like I Do”, she steps into her spotlight fully—radiating confidence and ready to take the summer by storm.
A 2024 BEFFTA Award winner for Best UK African Artist, Love has commanded stages across the UK and Europe—from Brixton Jamm and The Ritzy to Klaipeda Jazz Festival and Korce Beer Festival. Whether headlining sold-out shows or captivating intimate audiences with Sofar Sounds, her live performances leave a lasting mark.
With a fast-growing catalogue, magnetic presence, and genre-blurring sound, Love Itoya is more than a rising star—she’s a movement. And with “Like I Do”, she invites us all to dance, shine, and stand a little taller.
Love Itoya sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:
1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?
It all started with my love for dancing. My mum taught me how to dance she’s always been into music and would play MTV all the time. I grew up watching Aaliyah, Destiny’s Child, Christina Milian, TLC, Rihanna, Pussycat Dolls and all those legends really inspired me. Then when I was 13, I discovered I could write my own lyrics. I just picked up a notebook one day and started songwriting and singing. From then on, I fell in love with it, and I’ve been doing music ever since. I started professionally at the age of 16.
2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?
I’ve been influenced by so many powerful artists Beyoncé, Rihanna, Lauryn Hill, Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Etta James, Koko Taylor, Blu Cantrell, and Willow Smith. Seeing Willow doing her thing at such a young age made me believe I could do it too. I was also really influenced by Timaya, his energy, his roots, and how he represents where he’s from.
As for people I’d love to work with in the future definitely Timaya, Tems, Ayra Starr, Bree Runway, Doechii, Burna Boy, Adekunle Gold, Rema, and Shallipoppi especially because we’re both Edo tribe. That connection means a lot to me.
3. What projects do you have coming up and can you give us any info on them?
First up is my new single “Like I Do,” ft Two Tigers Afro Italian artists produced by The Breed Producer which I’m really excited about it’s got that bounce, confidence, and vibe that feels like me. As for other projects… I don’t like to jinx anything, but beautiful things are definitely coming. You can expect my sound, my story, my influences, and lyrics straight from the heart. I’m really excited for what’s ahead.
4. How would you describe your sound?
I’d say my sound is pop fusion, unique, meaningful, and powerful. It blends different worlds I’ve grown up in and been inspired by, but always stays true to me.
5. What’s your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?
Winning the 2024 BEFTA Award for Best UK African Artist. That moment reminded me that the journey, the work, and the growth are all being seen and felt. It meant so much.
6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?
To everyone reading this, I’ll be real with you the music game is emotionally, psychologically, and mentally draining. You need to be very patient especially if you’re independent. You’ll work so hard, and sometimes still not get acknowledged. You’ll feel invisible, and it can really mess with your mind. But you’ve got to keep going. Be persistent. Stay true to who you are. Believe in your craft. Trying to be someone else won’t take you to where you’re really meant to be. Be authentic. You will cry, you will break down sometimes, but try to find peace in all the chaos that comes with this journey. Find the rightful team that really believes in you and will stand by you. Always be ready to learn because sometimes we think we’re ready, and we’re really not. Learn everything you can about the music industry, because nowadays it’s not just about talent, it’s about branding, marketing, and so much more. Keep grinding and stay consistent.
7. Are there any artists on your radar right now that we should check out?
Yes! There are some amazing independent artists on my radar right now Life Itoya (my brother, who is an artist as well), Caxxianne, Molly J, Deja, Elmarie, Devaura, Kiffa Soul, Official Shannon, RozzzQween, Victoria Dell, Chloe Jet, KTYA, Hakim the phoenix, Romz and Idele. They’re all doing their thing in their own unique way and definitely deserve more attention.
8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?
Chilombo by Jhené Aiko has been on repeat since the day it dropped. It’s my calmness album my favourite album ever. I’ve literally played it non-stop. And because I love live music so much, Beyoncé’s Homecoming: The Live Album is also one of my top favourites. I know, it’s crazy, right? But those two albums really speak to me, and I just love playing them over and over.
9. What do you like to do when you’re not making music?
I love watching rom-coms honestly, anyone who really knows me knows I’m super romantic! Rom-coms are my go-to. Watching movies in general is my calm time it’s how I ease my mind and relax when I’m not creating.
10. Name three things you can’t live without when in the studio?
Water, my phone, and some snacks because I love to eat! Gotta keep myself fed and fuelled while I’m working.