Ayo Tempo's Story

Arthur V. Thompson II, professionally known as Ayo Tempo, is an American music producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist whose musical journey began in Dallas, Texas. Born on October 22, 1976 to Arthur V. Thompson and Cherrie Thompson Scott, Ayo discovered his passion for music early—writing and producing by the age of 13 and mastering an impressive collection of instruments including tuba, French horn, trumpet, piano, and drums by the 7th grade.

A defining moment in Ayo’s early career came in 1996. After returning home from Light House Church of God in Christ, where he served as a drummer, Ayo sat at his grandmother’s piano determined to recreate and reinterpret the hymn “Standing in the Need of Prayer.” As he played and sang his arrangement, a visiting guest—legendary gospel artist John P. Kee—was so captivated that he dropped Ayo’s grandmother’s pound cake, sat beside him at the piano, and began playing the arrangement himself. That same year, John P. Kee released “Standing in the Need of Prayer,” which went on to become a gospel hit inspired by Ayo’s rendition.

In the years that followed, Ayo continued writing and co-writing for notable gospel artists, including American Idol finalist George Huff and his own mother, gospel artist Cherrie Thompson Scott, among others. His musical gifts and creative instincts have quietly influenced numerous projects throughout the gospel community.

Beyond music, Ayo built a successful career in mortgage and real estate, becoming a respected businessman while continuing to write and produce behind the scenes. Yet, his passion for music never faded.

Today, Ayo Tempo is stepping back into the spotlight, ready to share the depth of his sound and the creativity he’s nurtured over decades. With a lifetime of experience, a story rooted in faith and family, and a catalog of unreleased brilliance, Ayo is prepared to show the world what has always been within him.