Oxlade Acknowledges the Greater Support from Ghana over Nigeria

Oxlade, a rising Afropop artist from Nigeria, asserts that he receives greater support from Ghana than Nigeria. In a recent interview, he addressed his collaboration with Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie and his frustrations with experienced industry figures who, in his view, exert control over emerging artists. Oxlade expressed gratitude for the affection he has received in Ghana and lamented the challenges faced in the Nigerian music industry.

Oxlade, the acclaimed Nigerian Afropop singer and songwriter, formally known as Ikuforiji Olaitan Abdulrahman, has expressed a profound appreciation for the support he has received from Ghana, stating that he feels more beloved in the West African nation than in his homeland of Nigeria. This revelation came during an interview where he discussed his choice to collaborate with Sarkodie, a prominent Ghanaian hip-hop artist, on his inaugural album titled “Oxlade from Africa.” In the same dialogue, Oxlade clarified earlier remarks he made on social media platform X regarding his experiences with certain industry veterans, whom he referred to as “OGs” that he felt were undermining his career. He articulated a disdain for individuals he perceived as attempting to exert undue influence over his personal and professional trajectory. “If I am being honest with you, Ghana has shown me more love than Nigeria,” he stated, underscoring his belief that this external encouragement is pivotal to his artistic journey. He further noted, “I hate the mindset of people trying to play god,” emphasizing his frustrations with the dynamics within the Nigerian music industry. The charismatic artist, who hails from Lagos, has garnered global recognition for his soulful vocals and innovative sound, building upon the foundation laid by his early enthusiasm for music. Hits such as “Away” and “Ojuju” have indeed cemented his status as a formidable talent, captivating audiences worldwide, and he attributes much of his success to his formative years and passion for the musical arts.

The Nigerian music industry is known for its vibrant talents and competitive environment, often marked by relationships and rivalries among artists and industry insiders. The rise of Afropop and its international influence has led to cross-border collaborations, particularly between Nigerian and Ghanaian musicians. Oxlade, a notable figure in this genre, has made an impact with his unique sound, leading to discussions about his experiences and sentiments within these cultural dynamics. His recent remarks highlight the complex landscape of appreciation and recognition between two closely-knit West African nations, as well as the challenges that emerging artists may face in their careers.

In conclusion, Oxlade’s commentary on the love he receives from Ghana in comparison to Nigeria sheds light on the broader narrative of artist experiences within the West African music scene. His collaboration with Sarkodie signifies an embrace of cross-cultural partnerships that not only enrich his artistry but also reflect the growing connection between Nigerian and Ghanaian music. Oxlade’s introspective insights about industry dynamics reveal the difficulties artists can encounter and highlight the importance of support and recognition in fostering artistic talent.

Original Source: pmnewsnigeria.com