Turning bedroom recording into Int’l opportunities: The story of Agricola's Anthony

Turning bedroom recording into Int’l opportunities: The story of Agricola’s Anthony

Aug 15, 2025 News, Xtra Entertainment

(l-r) Deymo, Thoni, Nature)

Kaieteur News – When Anthony Baynes, better known by his stage name Thoni, uploaded a song he recorded right in his bedroom to YouTube, he never imagined it would lead to performing on stages in New York just weeks later. Now, at 25, the artist who grew up in Agricola, has released his latest collaboration “Nobody Else” with fellow Guyanese artists Deymo and Nature, marking another milestone in what he hopes will become his “golden career.”

The journey from East Bank Demerara to international recognition wasn’t conventional. Growing up in a “poor family” of five, Thoni became the first in his family to graduate from the University of Guyana. But his real education began much earlier, in the church where he first picked up instruments as a child.

“I wasn’t born with singing talent,” Thoni admits. “I had to teach myself how to sing.” His musical evolution spanned years, from playing instruments in church to mastering the steelpan for six years in high school, then transitioning to writing poems and eventually songs. After graduating in 2015, what started as singing for fun gradually transformed into a serious pursuit.

The turning point came in 2017-2018 when friends and family encouraged him to release his music publicly. The response surprised him. “I thought because Guyanese mostly embrace soca and dancehall, I wouldn’t get much support,” he explains. “But every time I release a song, my fan base keeps growing.”

That growth has been remarkable. From bedroom recordings to international performances, Thoni has defied his own expectations. His catalog now includes 15-20 songs available on YouTube and all streaming platforms, each release exceeding his reach goals.

Behind every milestone stands his biggest supporter, his mother. When she hears his music on the radio, she experiences what Thoni calls her “That’s My Son” moments, proudly sharing his work with friends and celebrating each achievement.

Guyanese artist, Thoni

“Nobody Else” represents more than just another release, it’s deeply personal. Thoni wrote the verse and chorus months ago, then reached out to Deymo and Nature, two underground artists he recognized for their exceptional talent. Initially planning to collaborate with whoever delivered the best verse, he was so impressed with both contributions that he included them both.

The song serves as a preview of Thoni’s upcoming mixtape, featuring 6-7 tracks that will showcase collaborations with both Deymo and Nature. The positive fan response has even sparked discussions about forming a boy group, an idea that seemed impossible when Thoni was recording alone in his room.

“I want to make this my golden career,” Thoni says, “but I accept the possibility that it might not happen. In the same breath, I’m still committed to making music because I love it.” His confidence in his work remains unshaken. “I believe one of my songs will be capable of opening that door.”

That door-opening philosophy extends beyond his own career. Thoni is actively seeking to collaborate with other RnB and Pop artists, using his platform to elevate underground talent in these genres. He encourages artists to reach out to him on Instagram, viewing collaboration as essential to developing Guyana’s music scene.

From steelpan to streaming platforms, from Agricola to international stages, Thoni’s journey illustrates that musical success doesn’t always follow traditional paths. With each release, he’s not just building his own career, he’s creating opportunities for others and proving that with persistence, talent, and unwavering support, even bedroom recordings can reach the world.

“Nobody Else” is now available on all streaming platforms and YouTube, with Thoni’s upcoming mixtape promising to deliver more of the authentic storytelling and collaborative spirit that has defined his remarkable rise.

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Agricola, Anthony Baynes, Artist, Nobody Else, Thoni

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