Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Home Blog Page 2

Is the Black & White EP Ovasabi’s Most Honest Project Yet? Rapper Reveals

Emmanuel Daniji
-
0
Is the Black & White EP Ovasabi’s Most Honest Project Yet? Rapper Reveals

I first sat down with Ovasabi two years ago, just after the release of his Book of Ovasabi EP. Back then, he was already showing hints of the dualities in his sound and personality — the street grit meeting introspective weight. Now, as he emerges with Black & White, I expected growth; what I found was a leap. In the intervening years, Ovasabi moved between continents (he’s based in New York now) and expanded his sonic palette.

This time, when we caught up, the conversation felt less like an interview and more like two old friends trading confessions over beats and verses. The stakes are higher now, and Black & White shows it. The EP blends contrasts—emotional highs and lows, light and dark, hope and despair—into a tight, raw package. Released amid strong buzz (especially for the lead single “I NEED THAT” which dropped August 2025) (Hiphop Africa), this is Ovasabi’s boldest move yet.

Without further delay, here’s our conversation.

Stream Black & White Here: https://linktr.ee/ovasabi

BigDan: The title Black & White is heavy with contrast. What pairs or tensions were you trying to unearth in naming it?

Ovasabi: Black and white is good and evil. Rich and poor. Life and death. Black and white. Truth and lies. Love and hate. You getting Black and White.

BigDan: Visually, in the cover and artwork, did you lean more toward white or black as the dominant aesthetic—and what message did that send?

 

Ovasabi: I have the ability to manifest every human behavior and character. I—guess I just tell the stories from both sides—because I know I can.

BigDan: “I NEED THAT” dropped ahead of the EP. How did its reception impact how you finished or even shaped the rest of Black & White?

Ovasabi: I NEED THAT did what needed to be done. Having an international feature, being in a different space of mind & life, in a different country and continent—thousands of streams, a strong video. It’s been received greatly.

BigDan: If there’s one song on Black & White that best mirrors your emotional state in 2025, which is it—and what was going through your head while making it?

Ovasabi: I love every song on Black & White. I’ve done a lot: rap, cyphers, covers, Book of Ovasabi. But I’m in a new vibe now—that’s why I call this wave Black & White. And I always put everything into my music.

Black & White EP Tracklist

BigDan: Vulnerability is key in an EP like this. Were there verses you almost cut because they felt too exposed?

Ovasabi: Yes—my verse on “Alone” (ft. Rostov & Gregrics). I rapped about my ex-girlfriend. That verse had been in me for a while—we broke up years ago in Lagos. But since this is Black & White, I got vulnerable and let it out.

BigDan: Who around you—producer, engineer, peer—helped you feel safe enough to go there in the studio?

Ovasabi: Just me. I like operating from my inner self. See, why do you think my name is Ovasabi?

BigDan: You’ve pushed boundaries before. How experimental did Black & White get? Did you ever think, “This might not make it, but I want it anyway”?

Ovasabi: Everything here is an experiment—golden. Nothing like the Ovasabi you used to. It is Black & White EP.

BigDan: Which producer pushed you hardest—and on which track did that pressure show?

Ovasabi: Kulcha was in heavy rotation on this project. Also Grndmstr, Erizbeat—they’re among the best in Lagos. Even though I’m in New York, I love working with them.

BigDan: On “Alone”, there’s a moment when the intro flips in a surprising way. Did an engineer’s suggestion reshape that track?

Ovasabi: Yes—Erizbeat. The way he flipped the intro is magical. That change gave the song another depth. We poured hearts and emotions into it.

BigDan: A&R is often behind the scenes. Did your A&R push you to write differently, pick tracks, or sequence this EP in a particular way?

Ovasabi: Sleem Jim is the best. He shaped this project from start to finish. If you listened to Book of Ovasabi, you’d see his influence. He made sure tracks like “Calling” and “Cheerful Giver” found their place.

BigDan: Did any unexpected collaborator show up and bend the sound in a direction you hadn’t planned?

Ovasabi: Yes—Stephanie Milostic from Australia. Plus Gregrics, Rostov on “Alone”—energies colliding in the best way. That song brought us together.

BigDan: How did you assemble your team—producers, engineers, co-writers? What qualities mattered most?

Ovasabi: I like self-driven people, those who dare, who are ready to fail and try again, who pour heart into their art. Thank God that’s what we got.

BigDan: In any track, did you try to merge “white” and “black” — sonically or thematically—so they coexist rather than oppose?

Ovasabi: Black & White is itself that merge—expressed through rhymes and rhythms. You’ll understand when you listen.

BigDan: Given the cultural weight of “black” and “white” — identity, perception, balance—was there intention for social commentary?

Ovasabi: It’s not about color. It’s about words, lyrics, energy, rhythms. An image, an experience, a flow.

BigDan: If you had to perform one track in an empty room—just you and a mic—which would you pick, and how would you deliver it differently?

Ovasabi: All of them. Every track matters. In that raw space, I’d let the emotions breathe, strip production back, let the voice carry.

BigDan: On the more experimental pieces—who was behind the boards, and how much was you vs their suggestions?

Ovasabi: Sleem Jim was involved deeply. Our ideas met theirs and shaped many moments.

BigDan: Since the EP just dropped, what feedback has already hit you in a surprising way?

Ovasabi: Honestly, it’s still early days. I’m watching, listening, absorbing.

BigDan: Do you feel Black & White marks a turning point—for sound, career, opportunities going forward?

Ovasabi: Yes. I believe great things are ahead. But I leave that in God’s hands.

BigDan: If there were a sequel—Black & White II—what emotional ground or themes would you explore next?

Ovasabi: Let’s enjoy this one first. Please, listen to Black & White EP.

Afterword

Chatting with Ovasabi again felt like revisiting a chapter in progress. The boy from the Delta and Lagos, now stretching his voice across New York and beyond, is no longer content to just echo — he’s shaping. In Black & White, he becomes a bridge between extremes: light and dark, hope and despair, vulnerability and strength. He invites you in, not to pick a side, but to feel the tension, the balance, and the in-between.

We talked sonics, tears, studio late nights, and the fear that a song may be too open. But Ovasabi leaned in anyway. In doing so, he’s given his most vivid work yet.

If you’ve followed our earlier dialogues, you’ll see how far he’s stretched—and yet you’ll hear the core still intact: that fierce, unfiltered voice.

 Booking & Inquiries
Email: sleemjim77@gmail.com
Phone / WhatsApp: +2349055532285

Connect With The Artist:

Twitter: @ovasabiofficial

Instagram: @ovasabiofficial_

KooKusi Uses Hip-Hop as Science Communication to Redefine Disability with “This Ability”

Editor
-
0
KooKusi Uses Hip-Hop as Science Communication to Redefine Disability with “This Ability”
New 4-Track Project Addresses Disability Stigma Through An Artistic Biography of Ghanaian basketball star Emmanuel “Clock” Amoako

Multifaceted US-based Ghanaian rapper, science communicator, and researcher Nana Kofi Kusi-Boadum (KooKusi) has released his latest body of work, “This Ability“, his third solo and fourth overall project. Known for tackling deeply personal and socially pressing themes through music, poetry, and film, KooKusi once again delivers a thoughtful and compelling narrative that connects art, science, and advocacy.

Since introducing himself with “5foot3” in 2022, KooKusi has crafted projects that give voice to hidden psychological struggles, from inferiority complex to fear and addiction. Each release has built on the idea of confronting what he calls “5foot3s”; the personal challenges and shortcomings that quietly shape people’s lives. With “This Ability”, he shifts the focus to disability, using music to amplify a story that deserves to be heard.

The project is inspired by Emmanuel “Clock” Ekow Amoako, a Ghanaian basketball player, coach, entrepreneur, and creative worth celebrating who has lived with anisomelia, a limb length discrepancy. Despite the challenges of his condition, Clock has excelled in competitive sports, co-founded teams, built “Clockwork brand”, and inspired many through leadership and perseverance. In addition to Dilys MaxVoy’s documentary “13:12 – Make the Clock Work” that shares Clock’s journey, KooKusi retells it here in a uniquely personal way, through the eyes of someone who once struggled with self-doubt and found confidence by witnessing Clock’s resilience.

Through “This Ability”, KooKusi frames Clock’s journey as more than a personal triumph but an essential and universal message of strength in the face of stigma and doubt.

Across its four songs, This Ability weaves hip-hop, spoken word, snippets from an interview, and choral arrangements into a powerful narrative. The project opens with an emotional choral rendering of KooKusi’s first encounter with Clock grounded in 2 Corinthians 12:8–9. The choral record features Felix Adusei, Michael Adjaloo and the Great Family choir. 

The story then moves through the battles beneath victories and a fiery spoken-word tribute by executive producer, Li Diaw to a decisive moment in Clock’s career. It is followed by Clock’s own voice from a Full Circl interview with Reginald Amaah, bringing raw authenticity and emotional depth, before closing with a full hip-hop version of the opening track, this time from a triumphant perspective, bringing the journey full circle. 

The closer features Notse, with additional vocals from Kiki Celine. This body of work was produced by Rdeebeatz, Christoven, and Epidemix. To drive the message home even stronger, Kookusi collaborated and co-directed with film makers Baffour Kyem, Victor Morgan, Dilys MaxVoy and her Take it to the Max crew, to make visuals for each record so that the project is released as one big docuseries. 

At its core, “This Ability” carries a mission and that is to challenge stereotypes, celebrate strength, and inspire both people living with disability and anyone facing their own limitations. It dismantles the bias that often surrounds disability by showcasing Clock’s achievements, while encouraging others to see challenges not as defining traits but as opportunities for growth.

For KooKusi, this project is as much personal as it is cultural. It honours a national figure while continuing his artistic commitment to scientific communication, addressing mental health in the most relatable stories. “This Ability” transforms disability into a narrative of power, proving that greatness can emerge from the very places society misjudges as weakness.

“This Ability” is available now on all major streaming platforms.

About the Heroes:

KooKusi (Nana Kofi Kusi-Boadum) is a Texas-based Ghanaian storytelling rapper and neuroscience researcher known for conceptual projects that address mental health and social issues. His scientific communication endeavors combine artistic expression with mental health advocacy, particularly within African communities where such topics often carry stigma.
Emmanuel “Clock” Ekow Amoako is a Ghanaian basketball player, coach, entrepreneur, CEO of Clockwork brand, and disability advocate. His achievements include multiple championship victories, team leadership roles, and business success, all accomplished while managing the physical challenges of anisomelia.

Amplify Ghana Launches Rap Cypher Series with KNUST Edition

Editor
-
0
Amplify Ghana Launches Rap Cypher Series with KNUST Edition

Ghanaian creative promotion agency Amplify Ghana has officially released its debut music project, the KNUST Rap Cypher, now available on all major digital streaming platforms.

The KNUST Rap Cypher is the first installment of Amplify Ghana’s campus rap cypher tour, an initiative launched in July 2025 to spotlight rising rap talent from universities across the country. The tour kicked off at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), where standout students were selected to showcase their lyrical skills.

The first edition, KNUST Rap Cypher Pt. 1, featured performances from Afrodanny, MC Doe, AC40, and Riley D’Menace, with the video dropping on YouTube in September. A few weeks later, the video for KNUST Rap Cypher Pt. 2 was released, spotlighting ZXEUS, Kimathi, Jungler, Kheywords, and BDT Kay Kay. Now, the audios for both cyphers are officially available for streaming, giving fans and new listeners the chance to experience the raw talent emerging from Ghana’s next generation of rappers.

Both parts of the cypher were produced by Dab Beatz (Beeztrap KOTM, Amos K, Jaden Heights). Pt. 1 was mixed and mastered by 85 Savage, while Pt. 2 was handled by Kodwo Amos, ensuring the project delivers polished and high-quality sound.

https://open.spotify.com/album/6IfaBQ0sNYl3ZFjXFuzbXp?si=oAKbtCTwR7qa9epCy-tjtw

This milestone marks Amplify Ghana’s first official music release, signaling the beginning of more collaborations with artists locally and internationally. The agency, known for promoting young creatives and undiscovered talent, plans to expand the rap cypher series to other universities in the coming months.

Lolli Native Returns with Sophomore Album Amandla 

Editor
-
0
Lolli Native Returns with Sophomore Album Amandla 

Cape Town-born rapper Lolli Native has released his highly anticipated sophomore album Amandla, a bold statement of resilience, prayer, and gratitude. Following the success of his debut Ivangeli, Lolli cements his place as one of South Africa’s most authentic voices, representing both the streets that raised him and the broader African story. The 10-track project blends street rap, kwaito-hop energy, and soulful collaborations into a soundscape that is both rooted and forward-looking. Each track tells a story of perseverance, community, and faith. 

Amandla features heavyweight collaborators including ATM, Emtee, Anzo, Bugzito, Phila Madlingozi, 25K, Jay Claude, Yamke, and Lerato Lichaba, with production by Masta BC, Young2unnBeats, Rillo, Eno Da Cooldude, Jay Smash x Fzeikk, and Tru Hitz. Highlights include the prayerful “Amandla” (feat. ATM), the triumphant “Guess Who’s Back” (feat. Emtee), the hard-hitting “Bad Man” (feat. 25K & Jay Claude), and the soulful “Too Late” (feat. Phila Madlingozi).

Speaking about the album, Lolli Native shares: 

“Amandla is named after my sister, who has been my rock. While working on the album, I realised it’s also a thank you to everyone who has held me down — my family, my community, and my faith. This album is about strength, belief, and appreciation.” 

Lolli Native

With Amandla, Lolli Native delivers more than music — he delivers a testament to resilience and the power of dreams. Amandla is out now on all DSPs. Listen here: www.lollinative.com 






 







Imp Tha Don Makes his Mark With Debut Album- A DON’S TESTIMONY

Editor
-
0
Imp Tha Don Makes his Mark With Debut Album- A DON’S TESTIMONY

Hip-Hop artist I.M.P THA DON is set to make his mark on the music industry with the release of his debut album “A DON’S TESTIMONY: THA  ALBUM,” This highly anticipated project which follows two body of works prior, “Money Power Respect” (2021) and “CHAMPION SPIRIT: BANGERS BEFORE THA ALBUM”(2023), showcases the artist’s versatility and vision through an innovative blend of hip-hop styles that create a cohesive and compelling musical narrative. 

“A DON’S TESTIMONY: THA ALBUM” represents more than just a collection of songs – it’s a  testament to artistic growth, collaboration, and the diverse possibilities within hip-hop music. The  album demonstrates I.M.P THA DON’s ability to seamlessly weave together different sonic  textures while maintaining his authentic voice and perspective. 

The project features an impressive roster of talented artists and producers including KSoul_RSA,  MashBeatz, Lehandrobeatz, Sundaebeats, Trophy, Tyson Sybatelli, ArTEE, and Ghoust Trvpbully to name a few, with each artist bringing their unique style and energy to create a dynamic listening  experience. Executively produced by KSoul and I.M.P THA DON himself, the album reflects a  hands-on approach to creative control and artistic vision. This combination of artistic leadership  and experienced industry insight has resulted in a polished, professional debut that positions I.M.P  THA DON as an artist to watch. 

The diverse range of hip-hop styles explored throughout the album demonstrates I.M.P THA  DON’s versatility as an artist and his deep understanding of the genre’s rich history and evolving landscape. From hard-hitting beats to melodic flows, “A DON’S TESTIMONY: THA ALBUM”  offers something for every hip-hop enthusiast while maintaining a consistent artistic vision.

Cameroonian Rapper Kicka Release New EP CODED

Editor
-
0
Cameroonian Rapper Kicka Release New EP CODED

Releasing his first solo project under his new record label Makata Street Music, Cameroonian rapper Kicka unleash CODED Inspired by Cameroonian rappers like Jovi, Mic Monsta, Krotal and more, this EP brings a mixture of story telling and club bangers, over trap beats and drill beats, it’s easy for everyone to find what they like from this small piece of art.

Why CODED? Simply because in the hip-hop rap culture, rappers say things in a coded way, that requires some level of understanding to decode it, usually street knowledge.

KICKA

Rhapstar OTP Teams Up with King Rapsodi and IPreach Gospel on Explosive New Single “Secure The Bag”

RADARCharts by REM
-
0
Rhapstar OTP Teams Up with King Rapsodi and IPreach Gospel on Explosive New Single “Secure The Bag”

Nigerian hip-hop trailblazer Rhapstar OTP is back, and this time he’s making a bold statement. His latest release, “Secure The Bag,” featuring rap powerhouse King Rapsodi and lyrical preacher IPreach Gospel, is a hard-hitting anthem that blends motivational energy, raw lyricism, and undeniable street credibility.

“Secure The Bag” is more than just a song — it’s a declaration of ambition and perseverance. Backed by a gritty, bass-heavy beat layered with Afro-fusion elements, the track captures the hustle spirit of today’s generation while showcasing the unique artistry of each collaborator. Rhapstar OTP delivers razor-sharp verses with his signature smooth flow, while King Rapsodi brings a punchy, confident edge. IPreach Gospel rounds out the track with a thought-provoking and spiritually charged delivery, offering a powerful message about grinding with purpose.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Rhapstar OTP’s career, as it bridges diverse voices and styles to create a record that resonates with audiences across hip-hop, gospel-rap, and Afro-fusion genres. The chemistry between all three artists is undeniable, resulting in a track that feels fresh, authentic, and anthemic.

For Rhapstar OTP, “Secure The Bag” is a testament to his growth as both an artist and CEO of Only The People Involved Entertainment (OTPIE). The song reflects his commitment to telling real stories, uplifting his community, and inspiring listeners to chase their dreams relentlessly.

“‘Secure The Bag’ is for every dreamer, every hustler, every believer,” Rhapstar OTP explains. “It’s about fighting for your purpose, staying focused, and never giving up on what’s yours.”

With its infectious hook, crisp production, and dynamic lyrical performance, “Secure The Bag” is primed to become a playlist favorite and a motivational anthem for fans worldwide.

Stream ‘Secure The Bag’

AC$ENT — Port Harcourt’s New Afrotrap Problem

RADARCharts by REM
-
0
AC$ENT — Port Harcourt’s New Afrotrap Problem

Port Harcourt’s streets have a new voice loud enough to cut through the noise. AC$ENT moves like a lived-in story — equal parts grime grit and Naija swagger — spitting in English, pidgin and local cadence so the lines land like testimony. He doesn’t sound like what’s already on the radio; he sounds like what’s actually happening on the corner, in the backrooms and in the hustle. That rawness is his currency, and listeners are cashing in.

Rooted in the streets

AC$ENT’s bars read like field notes from his city: slang, hustle, small mercies and big headaches. He rides hypnotic, head-nodding beats but never forgets to tell a story — the kind that smells like diesel and wet tar, that carries both humour and warning. Whether he’s leaning into a grime cadence or switching into Afrotrap swing, he keeps authenticity at the front of every take. Freestyles bleed into final versions; nothing feels manufactured.

Sonic identity: grime x Naija trap

His sound is a collision — brittle UK-inflected flows and West African rhythm, braided with Afro-fusion’s melodic pull. Imagine stark percussion, sudden melodic hooks and a delivery that can be sneering one bar and confessional the next. Influences are audible but filtered: the cadence of Skepta, the audacity of Lancey Foux and the melodic instincts of Wizkid — remixed through Port Harcourt’s particular texture.

New single — “WEREY”

“WEREY” is a street anthem that doubles as a survival manual. The beat is hypnotic, the hook sneaks up on you and the verses are shorthand for keeping your head down and your hustle sharp. It’s both a warning and a flex: don’t get played, don’t fold under pressure. The upcoming video promises a gritty cinematic take — think low-light cityscapes, quick cuts, and close-ups that let you watch the story happen.

What’s next

AC$ENT’s not after quick likes; he’s building a lane. More drops are on the way, but the aim is steady growth — bigger audiences without selling the story. He’s documenting a generation that speaks bluntly and moves fast, and he’s doing it in the language of the streets.

Ish Kevin Inks deal with UMG EA

Editor
-
0
Ish Kevin Inks deal with UMG EA

The Drill Rap star from Rwanda starts a new chapter with the World Leading Music imprint

Universal Music Group East Africa (UMG EA) announces the  signing of prolific Rwandese rapper, songwriter and producer Ish Kevin. This deal brings forth new opportunities for Rwanda’s creme de la creme Hip Hop maverick Ish Kevin joining forces to create commercially successful  music and go far beyond the framework in the global music industry.

Sharing his excitement on the new deal he penned with Universal Music Group EA, Ish noted that this was a monumental move for the culture and his homeland , Rwanda.

“Signing to UMG is a big step not just for me, but for the culture. It means our sound, our stories, and our energy are now on a global stage. It’s proof that African voices especially from Rwanda belong in the world conversation” he mentioned.

Ish Kevin

Speaking on the latest signee, UMG EA General Manager Chinasa Udeala shared.

I’m incredibly proud to welcome Rwandan hip-hop star Ish Kevin to UMG East Africa. His authenticity resonates deeply with the youth, making him a major voice in the country’s urban music scene. This is a major milestone for East African hip-hop and  music from Rwanda in general. Partnering with UMG East Africa, Ish is ready to share his undeniable talent with the world.

Chinasa Udeala

Ish’s transcendental rise in the music industry began in 2021 with breakout singles such as “Amakosi” and “No Cap” , the latter featured among ‘7 Hard Drill Tracks from around The World’ by major Urban music UK platform , GRM Daily. Ish has solidified his basking reputation as a multilingual emcee , fluent in English, Swahili, French and his native – Kinyarwanda. Pronounced as one of the faces of the new generation of Rwandese artists, Ish is convicted to push boundaries and springboard the Rwandan sound to a global stage.

“I’ve always believed in pushing boundaries. The inspiration to sign with UMG came from wanting to take what we’ve been building locally and share it with the world, while still staying true to where I come from” he mentions.

“Expect bigger collaborations, more powerful storytelling, and music that connects beyond borders. It’s about growth, but also about putting Rwanda and East Africa on the map in a new way” Ish reaffirms his ambitions.

Following the success of his debut LP ‘Blood , Sweat and Tears’ , Ish is ready to charge into the spotlight with exciting new projects already lined up following this incredible milestone.

About Ish Kevin

Ish Kevin (born 1997), also known as Semana Kevin( His real Name), is a Rwandan rapper, songwriter, and entrepreneur who has emerged as a leading figure in East Africa’s contemporary hip-hop and drill scenes. He is the founder of Trappish Music, a label and movement that champions a new generation of Rwandan artists blending trap, drill, and traditional sounds with multilingual lyricism in Kinyarwanda, English, French, and Swahili.

Initially associated with the Kinyatrap movement, Ish Kevin later established his own path with Trappish Music, emphasizing themes of ambition, youth empowerment, and celebration over the gritty street narratives of his predecessors. His breakout single “Amakosi” (2021) and the high-energy track “No Cap” both garnered over a million views, with the latter earning recognition from GRM Daily as one of the “7 Hard Drill Tracks from Around the World.

In 2023, Ish Kevin released his acclaimed album BST (Blood, Sweat & Tears), which fused modern drill with traditional Rwandan elements, including samples of Kwivuga vocals and the Inanga instrument. The following year, he dropped the introspective EP Semana, which explored personal growth and artistic ambition. His 2025 single “Africa Rise” further solidified his reputation as a pan-African voice, celebrating unity, resilience, and cultural pride.

Recognized by The Native as one of Africa’s top 12 rappers in 2021, Ish Kevin continues to shape Rwanda’s hip- hop landscape through his music, collaborations, and mentorship of emerging artists.

As of July , 2025, Ish Kevin has officially signed with Universal Music Kenya (UMG Kenya) a major regional label under Universal Music Group. His debut single with them, “Gutsinda II”, was released on that date and is distributed by Universal Music Kenya Limited.


OVASABI: Breaking Borders with “I NEED THAT”

Emmanuel Daniji
-
0
OVASABI: Breaking Borders with “I NEED THAT”

Nigerian-American hip-hop artist Ovasabi released his highly anticipated single, “I NEED THAT”, on August 20, 2025. The track is a cross-cultural explosion featuring Austrian pop/R\&B singer Stephanie Milostic, alongside contributions from an Australian R\&B voice and Zambian artist Mayukwa.

With AI-driven visuals, an international sound, and bold collaborations, Ovasabi is carving his place as one of the genre’s most daring voices. I caught up with him to talk about his creative journey, the making of this project, and the global future he envisions for his music.

—

Global Fusion

Q: Your new single “I NEED THAT” brings together your distinctive hip-hop flow with Stephanie Milostic’s vibrant pop melodies, a fusion of two musical worlds. How did this collaboration come together, and what excites you most about blending those genres?

Ovasabi: I actually discovered Stephanie during a TikTok live where her music was being played. Her vocals stood out, her lyrics were unique, and she had a distinctive style. I reached out to her in December, and by January she had sent me a chorus. I loved the sound immediately, and we decided to build the song from there. What excites me most is that it’s not just a song, it’s a sound. It’s unique. I always wanted to blend my Nigerian lyrics and vocals with an international artist, and this was the perfect opportunity.

Click HERE to Stream and Listen to I Need That

—

Cross-Cultural Chemistry

Q: How did you connect with Stephanie Milostic for “I NEED THAT”? Was she on your radar from the start, or did it evolve organically?

Ovasabi: It was organic. She listened to some of my music too and liked what she heard. We connected on mutual interest. This digital era makes collaborations like this possible, and that’s exciting.

—

Energetic Intent

Q: With club-ready energy and an international anthem vibe, what mood did you envision for listeners hearing “I NEED THAT” for the first time?

Ovasabi: Anywhere the vibe is high, clubs, parties, gyms, sports competitions. Even when you just need motivation or positive energy. That’s the atmosphere I want people to feel.

Ovasabi I Need That

—
Expanding the Palette

Q: Beyond Stephanie, you’ve got an Australian R\&B singer and Zambian artist Mayukwa on this project. How did they expand the sound?

Ovasabi: Stephanie is an Australian R\&B/Pop singer who’s been putting out great music. Mayukwa, the Zambian artist based in New York, is an energetic performer and really good with choruses. We actually worked on a track called “Calling” from my upcoming Black and White EP. Watch out for that one, it’s special.

—
Creative Approach

Q: When working with such diverse artists, from Europe, Africa, and Oceania, do you adapt your songwriting and production style?

Ovasabi: Music is a universal language. Sometimes it just needs a little tweaking here and there, but I always stay original. My Warri pidgin, Nigerian slang, English, and hip-hop influences will always be there. The key is often just finding the right beat, the rest falls in place.

—

Innovative Visuals

Q: Your project includes an AI-generated video, something quite new in hip-hop. What inspired this direction?

Ovasabi: For me, it’s about moving with the times. AI is efficient. Stephanie lives in Australia, and I’m in the U.S.. imagine the cost and logistics of shooting a traditional video together. AI gave us creative flexibility. And with attention spans getting shorter, I believe AI makes visuals more efficient while expanding creative options.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccAQBePJaE8

 

—
Technical Challenges

Q: What were some of the challenges in executing an AI-driven visual?

Ovasabi: Honestly, with great minds like Pixala Productions handling it, everything fell into place. They’re the best in the game right now.

—
Origins & Evolution

Q: From Warri to the U.S., from your Book of Ovasabi EP to this global project, what’s stayed central to your identity, and what’s evolved?

Ovasabi: My Delta pidgin, Nigerian slang, and ability to make hip-hop digestible are still central. What’s evolved is my sound selection, beats, instrumentals, production choices. Growth comes with every project.

—

Storytelling Through Lyrics

Q: Your earlier work was deeply personal and reflective. How does this new project differ in lyrical themes?

Ovasabi: Every project comes from a different space emotionally. Hopes and Dreams was one vibe. This one is a whole new narrative, with new energy and emotions.

—

Audience Vision

Q: How do you envision your global audience receiving this, from New York to Lagos and beyond?

Ovasabi: It’s always been tough breaking African hip-hop into the U.S. and international space. But I believe I can be that bridge. Who knows, we might even win Grammys. You never know.

Ovasabi I Need That

—

Live Performance Plans

Q: With such high-energy tracks and futuristic visuals, what can fans expect from your live shows?

Ovasabi: We’re planning tours already. Some gigs in New York are coming up, and we’re pushing for bigger shows. Creativity unfolds as we go, but one thing’s certain, it’s gonna be lit. Keep your eyes on me.

—

Industry Disruption

Q: Do you see AI visuals reshaping hip-hop and music videos as a whole?

Ovasabi: Absolutely. In a few years, artists of all genres will move away from traditional music videos. AI is here to stay, it’s efficient, creative, and only going to get better. This is just the beginning.

—
Artistic Influence & Growth

Q: How did your roots in Delta State and Lagos influence this release?

Ovasabi: Growing up, we dreamed of international collaborations. From Warri to Lagos, now to the U.S., all of those experiences shaped me. That’s why I appreciate this moment so much.

—
Strategic Release Choice

Q: Why August 20, 2025, for the release of “I NEED THAT”?

Ovasabi: It’s the right timing. My Black and White EP is also on the way, so this track sets the pace. We’ve got so much lined up, just stay tuned.

—

Looking Ahead

Q: What comes after this release?

Ovasabi: The Black and White EP drops in September. There’ll be shows, tours, more visuals, merch, and big moves from the U.S. to Lagos. We’re just getting started.

—

Final Word

Ovasabi’s new single isn’t just music, it’s a movement. By blending hip-hop with international pop, experimenting with AI visuals, and staying rooted in his Nigerian identity, he’s redefining what global hip-hop can look and sound like.

—

For Bookings & Inquiries

For artist bookings, interviews, features, and performance requests, contact:

Sleemjim

sleemjim77@gmail.com

+234 905 553 2285

123...142Page 2 of 142

Category

Important

Stay connected

spot_img
SiteLock

© 2025 Hiphop Africa Ltd | All rights Reserved