[2][3] In 2009, Iyanya released his debut studio album My Story, which was supported by the singles "No Time" and "Love Truly".

His second studio album Desire, which was released in February 2013, produced the singles "Kukere", "Ur Waist", "Flavour", "Sexy Mama", and "Jombolo".

[10] After graduating from the University of Calabar, he worked in a hotel and sang karaoke at a local bar he managed.

[2] Iyanya cited British singer Craig David and American hip hop artist R. Kelly as his key musical influences.

[11] Iyanya was motivated to pursue music professionally after watching the celebrity lifestyle of 2 Face Idibia and Olu Maintain.

In 2008, KCee from KC Presh convinced Iyanya to partake in the first season of Project Fame West Africa.

After winning MTN's Project Fame West Africa, Iyanya began recording his debut album My Story.

[14][15][16] He teamed up with producer DTunes and recorded "Kukere", a single that achieved global success, particularly in Nigeria, Ghana and the United Kingdom.

The song was succeeded by the album's second single entitled "Ur Waist", which features additional vocals from Emma Nyra.

[23] On 14 June 2013, the Manchester concert commenced and featured performances from Emma Nyra and DRB Lasgidi.