Tell us about your career, including your history, where you are from and how you started?
What sparked your interest in pursuing a career in music, and what was your journey to becoming a musician like?
Since I was a kid I always wanted to be a star, as cheesy as that sounds, it’s true. I started off dancing wanting to be the next Chris Brown but got bored of that and wrote my first rap when I discovered Lil Wayne and Young Money Entertainment back in 2012. Ever since then I’ve maintained my aspiration to become a rap star and kept progressing however, I only made the decision to pursue it as a career in the last quarter of 2022 because there were a lot of unanswered questions I had to ask myself before making that decision. Now I’m certain it’s the best decision I’ll ever make.
Who are some of the musicians or musical acts that have had the most significant impact on your work and your sound?
My sound is heavily influenced by some of the biggest names in the game – Kanye West, Drake, and Jay Z. These guys have been my musical inspirations since I began studying hip-hop. Kanye’s production style and ability to push boundaries have been a constant source of inspiration. Drake’s ability to combine singing and rapping, as well as his overall lyricism and flow, has had a significant impact on me. And of course, Jay Z’s legacy and business acumen are things that I admire and aspire to emulate.
I’ve also been influenced by some of the newer artists in the game like Lil Baby. These guys are all pushing the boundaries of hip-hop in their own unique ways, and I love how they’re not afraid to take risks and try new things.
Can you describe the progression of your musical style and what sets it apart from others in the industry?
In the beginning, I was heavily influenced by much of the YMCMB roster – Tyga, Lil Wayne, Nikki, Drake and my music had a less traditional hip-hop sound. As I continued to grow and develop as an artist, I began experimenting more with my sound and incorporating different elements into my music.
I like to incorporate melodic hooks and catchy choruses into my songs, while still maintaining hard-hitting rap flow. My lyrics are often introspective, exploring themes like self-discovery, relationships, and the challenges of pursuing a career in the music industry.
What sets my music apart from others in the industry is its authenticity. I strive to be as genuine and real as possible in my music, and I think listeners can really sense that. I’m not afraid to be vulnerable in my lyrics and talk about the ups and downs of my life, and I think that’s something that resonates with a lot of people.
Could you elaborate on the backstory and significance of your artist or band name?
For me, “The Finesser” represents someone who is able to navigate their way through any situation and come out on top. It’s about having the confidence and skill to finesse your way to success, whether that’s in music, business, or life in general.
When I first started making music, I knew I wanted a name that would capture that sense of confidence and determination. “The Finesser” just felt right to me, and it’s stuck ever since.
I also love the way the name sounds – it’s catchy and memorable, and it rolls off the tongue easily. It’s the kind of name that people remember, and I think that’s important when you’re trying to build a brand as an artist.
How do you typically approach the songwriting process, and what role does collaboration play in your work?
As a rapper, finding the right instrumental is a critical part of my creative process. Once I find an instrumental that I like, I’ll start to work on the songwriting process. I like to let the beat guide my lyrics, and I try to create a flow and cadence that really fits with the rhythm of the instrumental. I also focus on the overall message of the song. I try to come up with a theme or idea that is meaningful and relatable, and that I think will resonate with my fans. When it comes to collaboration, I think it can be a really valuable tool in the songwriting process. Working with other artists and producers can help bring new ideas and perspectives to the table, and can help take a song to the next level. I’m always open to collaborating with other artists, and I think it’s a great way to keep things fresh and exciting. However, I also enjoy the freedom and control of writing and producing my own music, so it’s a balance that I strive to maintain.
Can you share with us a particularly meaningful or personal song in your discography, and what inspired it?
For me, that would have to be a track called “Our Song”. The song was inspired by a tough breakup that I went through. It was a situation where I really thought that the relationship was going to work out, but in the end, things just didn’t come together the way I had hoped.
This song was my way of processing those emotions and finding a way to move forward. The song is really personal and vulnerable, and I think it’s one of the most honest tracks I’ve ever written. I wanted to be as real as possible about the pain and confusion that I was feeling, and to create a sense of catharsis for anyone who might be going through something similar.
Could you discuss the evolution of your live shows and performances, and what you aim to convey through them?
Absolutely, as a rapper, I take a lot of pride in the live show experience that I provide to my fans. For me, the evolution of my live shows has been all about creating a truly immersive experience that showcases not only my music but also my personality and creativity. In terms of what I aim to convey through my live shows, I really want to create a sense of connection and engagement with my fans.
At the same time, I also want to showcase my skills as a rapper and performer. I try to incorporate a lot of energy and passion into my live shows, and I aim to create an atmosphere that is both fun and inspiring.
Can you recall any memorable or unique experiences you have had while touring or performing?
The second annual EC Awards ceremony was truly a momentous occasion for me as a rapper. It was definitely one of my best performances to date, and I’m still on a high from the energy and excitement of the night.
What is your perspective on the current state of the music industry, and how do you see it evolving in the future?
The current state of the music industry is both exciting and challenging. On the one hand, there has never been more opportunities for artists to create and distribute their music. However, this also means that there is a lot of competition out there, and it can be difficult to stand out in a crowded market. I think there will always be a place for larger record labels and established artists who have the resources to create truly massive productions. But even then, I think we’ll continue to see a push towards authenticity and genuine creative expression. As long as there are passionate artists like myself who are willing to push the boundaries and create something truly unique I believe that the future of hip-hop and the rap game will be very bright.
Can you speak to the role that activism, social justice or charity play in your music and career?
I see myself as more than just an artist; I see myself as a member of a larger community, with a responsibility to use my platform to promote positive change in the world. I believe that music can be a powerful tool for change, and that by raising awareness and sparking conversations through my lyrics, I can help make a difference in the world. At the end of the day, my music and my career are about more than just success and fame. They’re about using my voice and my platform to make a positive impact in the world, and to help create a better future for all of us.
How has your hometown or region shaped your musical identity, and what elements of it do you attempt to incorporate into your work?
As someone from Nigeria, who grew up in Paris and started my rap career in London, my musical identity has been shaped by a unique blend of cultural influences. Each of these regions has a distinct musical identity, and I’ve tried to incorporate elements of each into my work. I draw on my experiences growing up in Paris, and the diverse communities I was a part of, to infuse my lyrics with a sense of cultural awareness and social consciousness. Similarly, moving to London, Ontario opened up a whole new world of musical styles and influences. Despite all of these different influences, I try to incorporate elements of my Nigerian heritage into my work whenever possible. Nigerian music is known for its rich rhythms, powerful vocals, and unique instrumentation, and I try to infuse these elements into my beats and lyrics whenever I can.
Could you share any exciting new projects or collaborations you have in the works?
I’m working on a music video for one of the tracks on my upcoming EP. It’s going to be a cinematic video that I think my fans are going to love. I’m also planning a few live shows and performances in the city (London), which is always exciting. I love being able to connect with fans and share my music with them in person. And of course, the EP itself is something.
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