By Damilola Fatunmise
Talented young artiste, Ibukun Elijah Akindeji, known as “IBK Music,” has been making waves in the music industry with his impressive work and continued drive. Popular for his fresh take on Afrobeat, Akindeji is a promising and focused artiste with a bright future in entertainment. In this interview with Sunday Sun, he shares his beginnings, aspirations, and latest project.
Enjoy.
Can you tell us about your journey into the Nigerian music scene and how music has changed your life in recent times?
Music has been my sanctuary. It has transformed my life, it gave me purpose and joy. Also, music has opened doors to global recognition and connections with amazing fans.
How long have you been music?
I have been making music for over 25 years, but I began to seriously pursue it five years ago.
Who are the A-list artistes that you have been anticipating working with?
I would love to work with artistes like Davido, Tiwa Savage, Burna Boy, Wande Coal and Wizkid.
Really, why this set of people?
I must say all of them are good in their unique ways, but the names mentioned have their styles and energy, which blend perfectly with mine.
What can stop you from doing music?
As long as I live, nothing can stop me from doing music! It’s my passion and driving force. All of my being is about music, so nothing can.
Tell us about all your tracks and which is your favourite and why?a
Let me say all are my favourites because they all have one story or the other to tell; I don’t have any favourites; they are all my best. I just released “Damiloriru”, produced by Joseph Fabs, and so many tracks are still coming that fans will fall in love with.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
Oh wow! Five years vision? By God’s grace, in five years, I see myself dominating the Afrobeat scene, collaborating with international artistes, and pushing musical boundaries.
What’s the biggest stage you have ever performed?
For now, I would say the biggest stage I have performed on was at the amphitheatre in Obafemi Awolowo University. I performed before an audience of over 8000 people. It was a great experience, and exhilarating.
What’s the greatest thing this musical career has done to you?
Music has given me a great platform to express myself, connect with others, and leave a lasting impact. It’s most times spiritual that you can’t even explain the feeling because the way it’s been connecting me with people I would never have imagined my path could cross is amazing and I am thankful to God for this great privilege.
Who is your celebrity crush and why?
Celebrity crush? I’m focusing on my craft, but if I had to choose, maybe someone like Tiwa savage for her passion and dedication.
What inspires your songs?
My songs are inspired by life experiences, love, and African culture.
Who is your role model in the industry?
I love good music with relatable lyrics. Give me this, then you’re my role model already.
What’s your greatest fear in life?
Well, my greatest fear is losing my passion for music or failing to innovate. I want to keep the fire burning till my old age.
How do you manage your female fans?
Managing female can be very small because this gender has a great influence on our work, but all I do is appreciate their support and engage with them respectfully, valuing their enthusiasm.
Can you rate Nigerian music in recent times?
If I were to rate the music industry, I would rate it 8/10 for its creativity, diversity, and global impact. We are getting things right these days and I am proud that I am one of them.
What is your turn-off?
My major turn-offs are a lack of originality and disrespect towards fellow artistes. I hate it when people look down on other people’s hard work.
How best do you relax?
After a lot of work, I don’t joke about relaxation at all. It rejuvenates me a lot. I relax through vacations, nature walks, and spending time with loved ones.
How accessible are your songs?
My songs are available on all major streaming platforms, making them easily accessible to fans worldwide.
Do you have anything you want to tell your fans?
I would like to appreciate all my loyal fans and promise to always dish out good music.