TurnTable’s “Producer on Producer” series continues its deep dive into the engine rooms of Afrobeats by spotlighting the scene’s most electrifying new architects. In Episode 3, the spotlight is on the youthful vanguard: Semzi and Busy Pluto. They embody the fearless energy and digital-native savvy of a new generation, proving that the power to shape the culture is firmly in the hands of the youth. Though young, they are no strangers to the spotlight, already boasting multiple number-one records and a portfolio that signals a definitive shift in the sound and culture of the industry.
Hailing from Ogun State, Banjo Oluwasemilogo, known professionally as Semzi, represents a new wave of technical proficiency and hit-making instinct. His counterpart, Saheed Abeeb Samuel (Busy Pluto) from Edo State, has become the mastermind behind the explosive rise of "Pluto President" Shallipopi and the entire Plutomania movement, producing a string of undeniable, chart-breaking anthems. Their success is a testament to a new paradigm: one driven by youthful intuition, viral trends, and belief in their own sound.
Their journey, like many of their predecessors, began in the church, a foundational training ground for a generation of Nigerian musicians. Busy Pluto honed his skills on the keyboard, serving as a music director for three years, while Semzi’s rhythm was forged behind the drum kit. Both producers shared a resourceful start: Semzi was introduced to production software in junior secondary school. At the same time, Busy Pluto relied on a friend's laptop to learn his craft, showcasing the DIY hustle that defines today's creative youth. This laid the groundwork for their future success.
This shared foundation is evident in their production philosophy. The duo bonded over their love for rhythmic drive, with Semzi pinpointing its importance: “Once I get my drums, 80% of my beats are done.” This drum-centric approach is a hallmark of the new school, a product of youthful energy.
The conversation then pivots to their methods of collaboration in the modern industry. Semzi advocates for the magic of in-person sessions, believing the energy of a shared space is irreplaceable. Busy Pluto, while understanding the value of magic, has also adeptly adapted to the efficiency of the digital workflow, embodying the flexible, forward-thinking mindset of his peers.
Finally, they offer a glimpse into working at the highest level, sharing insights from their collaborations with street-hop pioneer Olamide and the meteoric Shallipopi. They emphasise a mindset of constant growth, highlighting how they are "learning on the go" while simultaneously shaping the sound of today.
Watch Episode 3 of Producer on Producer.