Throughout our lives, we’re often granted second chances, but it’s rare to face danger head-on and get a true second chance at life. With a rather insane lore and a relentless drive to make the most of this opportunity after narrowly escaping a kidnapping, we caught up with D’Chriz. The artist shared insights into his journey into music, his creative process, and the vision for his upcoming body of work.
Born Christian Chinedu Odenigbe on October 11, 1995, in Anambra State, Nigeria, D’Chriz has had a lifelong love affair with music. From an early age, he began his musical journey in the church choir, where he honed his vocal skills and developed a deep connection to the art of performance. As he grew, D’Chriz delved into the realms of Afrobeats and dancehall, ultimately finding his niche and carving out a unique path in the vibrant music scene.
In my conversation with him, I wanted to understand what initially drew him to music. “Growing up, I was influenced by my elder brother, who was always singing and bringing home the latest music,” he shared. It’s fascinating how familial connections can ignite a passion that shapes a person’s life trajectory. He continued, “My family had a strong love for music, which further fuelled my passion for it. I knew from a young age that I wanted to pursue music as a career.” This foundation laid the groundwork for a journey that many only dream of embarking on.
I was curious if his brother ever pursued music himself. “Yes, my brother did pursue music, but he eventually stopped and moved abroad,” he said. It’s a reminder of how paths can diverge. For D’Chriz, a career-defining moment arrived with a collaboration featuring the rising star Blaqbonez, marking a significant milestone in his artistic trajectory. How did this collaboration happen? I asked. “The song was created late one night with my producer, Mercury Space Boy. I initially wanted to feature Bnxn, but that didn’t feel like the right song. We then decided to feature Blaqbonez on the track. We reached out to him, and he liked the song. We linked up for the videos, and it was mind-blowing. I loved it.” He is particularly excited about the late-night sessions where creativity flows freely reminds me of the magic that often happens in those unguarded moments. It’s in those hours that true artistry is born.
Following this, his heartfelt song “7 Days,” in collaboration with Zinoleesky, also marked a highlight in his artistry and stands out as one of his most successful releases to date. Drawing inspiration from renowned artists like Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, Fireboy, and Asake, D’Chriz’s sound reflects a fusion of influences that have shaped his musical identity.
“I draw inspiration from my daily experiences and personal struggles,” he explained. The idea of using one’s life as a canvas for art is incredibly powerful. He added, “My creative process starts with sharing ideas with my producer, and we then develop the track together in the studio.” It’s clear that collaboration plays a vital role in his artistry. When I asked how he would describe his musical genre and sound, he confidently stated, “I would describe my genre as Afrobeats, Afro-soul, R&B, and a bit of highlife. I have a new project coming soon that will showcase this sound.” It’s exciting to think about how his diverse influences will merge in his upcoming work, and I could feel his anticipation radiating through his words.
I asked if there were any specific experiences or events that had deeply influenced his music. “I’m putting out a song, ‘If I Talk,’ inspired by an experience I had a few months back. I experienced a heavy attack from kidnappers. One day, while I was driving, they stopped me, and in the process of the attack, I was shot. I was in the hospital for over a month before I could go back home. My producers and friends checked up on me, and when I returned to Lagos, I felt the need to make a song about everything I went through. That’s how ‘If I Talk’ was made.”
I told him how sorry I was about the experience. “Nobody should have to go through that, and I’m glad you’re all right. It’s inspiring to see how you’ve turned that into great art. How do you want people to feel when they listen to your next single?” I asked.
“Well, I just want people to feel the emotion in the song, to understand what happened to me, and the reason I need to tell the story. I want people to know that things like this happen. I also want to create awareness so people know to be careful, because you never know who your enemy might be,” he replied.
Yet, the path of an underground artist is fraught with challenges, and D’Chriz articulated this reality when I asked about his struggles. “The main challenges I face are marketing and getting noticed. It’s not easy for an underground artist to compete with bigger, more established artists. Navigating the industry without major label support requires a lot of self-reliance and financial independence,” he said. “Honestly, it’s not easy being an independent artist. You have to handle everything yourself. But I thank God I have a side business to fund my career.”
Curious about the pressures of commercial success, I asked if he ever felt the need to change his sound to fit mainstream trends. “Yes, I’ve changed my sound a few times, as I realized my initial approach wasn’t resonating with the audience. It’s a normal process for artists to evolve their sound to stay relevant,” he explained. “I had to go back to the studio and develop a new sound, which is how you grow.”
When I shifted the focus to his life outside of music, D’Chriz revealed more about himself. “Outside of music, I’m a businessman and investor,” he said. “I have a simple lifestyle that includes gaming and hanging out with friends.” It’s refreshing to see how he maintains balance, not letting the pressures of the music industry overshadow his personal joys.
Despite the trials and tribulations he’s faced, D’Chriz has never wavered in his conviction to pursue music. “I’ve always believed that music is my calling. I’ve been determined to pursue it since I was young, and that conviction has never wavered.”
When I asked if he has a theme song, he responded, “‘Blessings’ by Fridayy and Asake, because I feel blessed. God has done so much for me this year alone. I know that many wouldn’t survive what I went through. I feel like God has really blessed me, and I’m grateful to be alive.”
Finally, I asked if there’s anything he wishes people understood about his music. “I just want them to understand that my music is alive, that it’s true, and that it’s for humanity. My music is real, and I want people to see what I see in myself.”
As an artist, D’Chriz continues to dream big. When asked about his goals for the next two years, he hinted at several ambitious plans, including dream collaborations, which will undoubtedly shape the future of his career. “I plan to collaborate with more artists, including Fave and Fireboy DML. I also envision my music taking me to great heights, such as performing at stadiums and hosting shows.” His dreams are not just aspirations; they are visions that he is determined to turn into reality. With an EP titled Shiny Star slated for release next year and a new single “If I Talk” dropping this week, it’s evident that he is ready to make his mark.
Through this conversation, I was struck by the sheer courage D’Chriz has shown in pursuing his passion, as well as the strength he’s demonstrated in overcoming the harrowing challenges he’s faced. The audacity to create after such experiences, the willingness to embrace vulnerability, and the fearlessness to stand apart—it all feels like an unrestrained act of defiance against the confinements that so often stifle us. At first, it was just about a second chance to me, but it’s beyond that. Life is fast and light, and things come and go, running like sand through our fingers, but I also know that nothing could take away his gift. Nothing. It is here to stay.
