HUZIEL: From African church drums to world center stage, A portrait of an artist forging his path

Aneke Chidera, who the world will soon know as HUZIEL, isn’t just stepping onto the music scene; he’s arriving with a story etched in every note and lyric. His debut EP, “PIGMENTS OF THE STORY” isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s an introduction to a soul who has breathed music since childhood, a narrative woven from the unique threads of his life.

HUZIEL’s origin story is steeped in the rich, resonant tones of gospel music. Raised in a devout Christian household, music wasn’t just a pastime; it was a way of life. His grandfather, a pioneering figure who established the first indigenous church Eternal Sacred Order of Cherubim and Seraphim (ESOCS) in their village Umuaga.

The Church Inadvertently set the stage for HUZIEL’s musical journey by ensuring a constant availability of musical instruments. It was within these hallowed halls that HUZIEL’s passion ignited, first with the drums at the tender age of seven, then blossoming into a mastery of the keys and lead guitar during his secondary school years. His thirst for musical knowledge led him to music production during his second year of university, a pivotal moment that solidified his path.

His decision to drop out of the university in his 300 level in 2021 was not a rash one, but a courageous leap of faith into the arms of his true calling: music. For HUZIEL, it wasn’t a matter of inspiration striking; it was the undeniable pull of his innate talent, the realization that music was not just a skill, but his sole means of expression according to HUZIEL, his “only reason for existence.”

“PIGMENTS OF THE STORY” is HUZIEL’s invitation to HIS world, an opportunity to understand his perspective, his truth. He describes his music as “generic and honest,” a fascinating paradox that speaks to his desire to create art that resonates universally while remaining deeply personal. It’s a testament to his belief in the power of music to transcend boundaries, to connect with listeners from all walks of life. HUZIEL’s ambition isn’t fame or fortune; it’s the profound desire to leave a mark on the world, to be remembered as an artist who fearlessly shared his truth through his music. “PIGMENTS OF THE STORY” is the first brushstroke in what promises to be a vibrant and compelling portrait of an artist determined to make his voice heard.