The journey to success is often long and unpredictable, but for Oxlade, it's clear that he's just getting started. Since his breakout single "Away" in 2020, released during the height of the global pandemic, the Nigerian artiste has shown no signs of slowing down. That song not only caught the attention of fans worldwide but also established Oxlade as a rising star with a fresh and unique sound. His blend of Afrobeat, soulful melodies, and emotional depth set him apart in a crowded industry, making "Away" an anthem that resonated far beyond Nigeria.
Oxlade’s ability to maintain this momentum has been nothing short of remarkable. After the success of "Away," he followed up with a string of notable releases that continued to demonstrate his versatility and growth as an artist. Tracks like "DKT" and "Bad Boy" featuring Mayorkun revealed his knack for blending different musical styles, effortlessly fusing Afropop with elements of R&B, and further expanding his appeal across diverse audiences.
However, it was "KU LO SA" that became a defining moment in his career. Released to widespread acclaim, this track took Oxlade's profile to new heights, capturing the hearts of listeners globally with its infectious rhythm and heartfelt lyrics. "KU LO SA" quickly became a viral sensation, dominating charts and solidifying Oxlade’s place as one of Nigeria's top music exports.
Throughout his journey, Oxlade has remained consistent, showcasing his growth not just in sound but in his ability to connect emotionally with his audience. His music is a testament to his creative evolution, seamlessly blending Afrobeat with modern pop and R&B influences. What makes Oxlade stand out is his capacity to stay true to his roots while pushing the boundaries of African music on the global stage.
“KU LO SA” amassed 27.6 million streams, peaked at No.9, and spent 39 weeks on the Official Nigeria Top 100 chart. The track’s popularity led to a remix release featuring American singer and songwriter, Camila Cabello. Oxlade captivated his fans with “INTOXYCATED” featuring Dave, further cementing his reputation in the music industry. “INTOXYCATED” had about 5.1 million streams, peaked at No.9, and spent 10 weeks on the Official Nigeria Top 100. As he continues in his musical journey, he’s confident in showing the world what’s next.
In an exclusive interview with TurnTable, Oxlade described the release of his long-awaited debut album, ‘OFA (Oxlade From Africa)’ as a personal journey that reveals his representation of his origin and experience. Oxlade shares that the tracks reflect themes of pain, love, hustle, and joy.
TTC: From your breakout single to now, how do you think your approach to music and songwriting has changed?
OXLADE: Evolution is a part of growth and art. Obviously, success, experience and every single milestone have an impact on my creativity and progress. As I always say, with time comes change, with change comes growth.
TTC: What challenges have you faced in your artistic journey, and how have they helped you evolve both personally and professionally?
OXLADE: I feel challenges are part of a great story. There is no great person who didn't go through obstacles and hurdles. I don't like highlighting them because they're part of the entire story. It comes with the total package. The greater the level, the greater the devil, so you just have to be ready for whatever comes your way.
TTC: You’ve been a part of the Afrobeats renaissance—how does it feel to be an ambassador for Nigerian music on the global stage?
OXLADE: I feel blessed and honoured. I'm just another artiste trying to continue the legacy that the legends before me already set up. I mean, it feels great to be a Nigerian at this time in the world. Being Nigerian and African is the new cool, so all I feel is gratitude.
TTC: Your upcoming album has been kept under wraps for a while—what can you reveal about the creative process behind it?
OXLADE: It’s a team effort and not just an individual brilliance. The album is coined from my experiences, it has four dimensions –pain, love, hustle, and joy. The album is a music journal. I sang about myself, where I come from, where I've been to, etc and these factors inspired different songs on it. Everyone involved are superheroes, if I'm being honest.
TTC: What was the inspiration behind the album title, and how does it reflect the themes you explore in the project?
OXLADE: Each and every song put out before the album drops all have a massive impact on how I envision and restructure the album, especially “KU LO SA”. “KU LO SA” was me embracing my African sides and it was embraced and accepted by the masses. Charity begins at home, so I feel they needed to know where I came from. Your identity is your heritage and your power –that's what makes you different from everyone. It always felt like embracing my identity through my music would make a wonderful debut if I wanted to put out a body of work.
TTC: How do you maintain a balance between staying true to your roots and pushing boundaries in your music?
OXLADE: They work hand-in-hand. My roots are a part of my inspirations. My life is intertwined. I can stay true to my roots and make music that exalts that. Also, I can make experimental music from things I hear or envision from my environment. They both play important roles in the creative space I am in right now.
TTC: In what ways do you want this album to resonate with your fans compared to your previous work?
OXLADE: I don't want to tell them how to enjoy ‘OFA (Oxlade From Africa)’. It's a buffet –choose what to pick, what to get inspired by, and just just enjoy good music.
TTC: What are your hopes for how this album will shape the future of your career and your legacy as an artiste?
OXLADE: Whatever I say right now is from a human standpoint and God has the final say. I just want the best for myself, the Oxlade brand, and to give my fans more bragging rights. What if I say I want it to take over Africa but God wants it over the world? I can only manifest and prophesy greatness in my life. It’s left to God.
TTC: Looking ahead, how do you see your artistic journey unfolding in the next few years? Are there any new directions or genres you’d like to explore?
OXLADE: I do multiple genres which is evident in the new album. As long as it's Afrobeats, promotes African culture, and helps me discover myself more, I'll enjoy myself. I just want to enjoy being an artiste when I'm alive. You know, touch lives, bless and heal souls, and put a smile on people’s faces. I want people to resonate and relate to my stories while I evolve and grow. I just want you guys to enjoy the journey because it just started.