It’s almost impossible to chart how a side quest can transform into one of the most iconic journeys in modern music. Yet, that’s precisely what Mr Eazi has achieved. Born in Port Harcourt and raised in Lagos, his story is rooted in both chance and intention. From organizing college parties to accidentally recording a hit, his transition into music was both serendipitous and inevitable. And then came what he calls Banku music—his deliberate twist on Afropop, named after the popular Ghanaian comfort dish. Lush and sylvan, it unfurls with ease.
He made music, then made some more—because that’s what artists do.
Years have passed since then, but him?
The “side quest” has translated to over 4 billion streams. His EmPawa Africa has become a launchpad for stars including Joeboy, accelerating the dreams of African artists while nurturing the creative ecosystem. His endeavors continue to inspire and uplift.
And his music? The raw potential of his sound and performances creates an incontestable, transcendent exchange. It is—and always has been—awesome!
This in mind, I am eager—there’s no one who wouldn’t be. It’s Mr Eazi, after all. Every era has its vibe, and when you think of 2015/2016, you think of the songs that defined easy dancing at parties. You remember the thrill of turning on the radio or being handed the aux, fingers crossed, hoping to hear anything beginning with “It’s your boy Eazi.”
Now it’s 2024. Not much has changed. When you think of music as a scrapbook, decorated with stickers of Afrobeats, Afropop, gospel, hiplife, highlife, and folklore, he is at the center—smooth sailing, hit-making, and distinctive in every sense.
SB : What’s been the most fulfilling aspect of your journey from your early days in music to now?
Mr EAZI: For me, the most fulfilling part has been seeing how far my music has traveled and the lives it’s impacted. Coming from a point where I made music for fun, to now connecting with people across the globe and representing Africa on a larger stage, it’s humbling. Watching African music grow alongside my journey has been rewarding.
SB : How has your sound evolved since you first started, and what experiences have most significantly shaped your musical journey?
Mr EAZI: My sound has matured, becoming more intentional while staying authentic. Early on, I experimented a lot because I didn’t feel boxed in by any expectations. Over time, traveling, meeting new people, and living different experiences have shaped my music. Collaborations and my focus on merging Afrobeat with other sounds have added layers to my artistry.
SB : What does your creative process look like, especially when you’re blending Afrobeat with other genres?
Mr EAZI: It’s very organic. I like to start with a vibe—sometimes it’s a beat, other times it’s a melody. Once I hear something that resonates, I dive into it emotionally. Collaborating with producers and artists from diverse genres brings fresh perspectives. For me, the key is maintaining my essence while allowing other influences to shape the track.
SB: Your most recent album The Evil Genius has been well-received. How does this album stand apart from your earlier projects like Life is Eazi?
Mr EAZI: The Evil Genius is a reflection of my growth—not just musically but as a person. With this album, I took more risks. It’s deeply personal, touching on love, identity, and self-discovery. While Life is Eazi was more about introducing my vibe to the world, The Evil Genius feels like a milestone in storytelling and artistry.
SB: What inspired you to start emPawa Africa, and how has it impacted your view on the African music industry?
Mr EAZI: I wanted to create opportunities for emerging African talent to access resources I didn’t have early on. It’s been a beautiful journey, and it’s opened my eyes to how much raw talent exists on the continent. I’ve also learned the importance of infrastructure and ownership in building a sustainable music ecosystem.
SB: What has surprised you the most about the talent you’ve discovered through emPawa?
Mr EAZI: The sheer diversity and creativity. Every artist brings something unique, and it’s amazing to see how quickly they adapt and grow when given the right tools.
SB: Life as an artist can be intense and all-consuming. How do you find balance between your personal life and your artistic pursuits, and what helps you stay grounded?
Mr EAZI: I prioritize time with family and loved ones, and I’ve learned to disconnect when necessary. My spirituality and staying close to my roots keep me grounded. Music is just one part of who I am.
SB: What specific practices or rituals do you have to maintain that balance?
Mr EAZI: Journaling, spending time in nature, and praying help me refocus. I also make it a point to have quiet moments where I reflect and express gratitude. Give thanks to God for running things smoothly.
SB : Could you share a moment when you faced a major challenge and how you navigated through it?
Mr EAZI: One of the toughest challenges was breaking into international markets without losing my authenticity. It was a balancing act, but I stayed true to my sound while collaborating with global artists. One defining moment was when I touring with J Balvin across America to a totally different audience.
SB: If you could distill one message from your entire discography, what would it be?
Mr EAZI: Authenticity and joy. My music is about celebrating life, staying true to yourself, and finding light
SB: As someone who has a platform that reaches millions, how do you manage the responsibility of your influence, especially in an age where artists are expected to be socially conscious?
Mr EAZI: I’m mindful of my actions and the messages I put out. I try to lead by example, whether through supporting young artists, promoting African culture, or addressing issues that matter. It’s about being authentic while using my platform for positive change.
SB: What excites you most about the future of Afrobeats, and where do you see the genre heading globally?
Mr EAZI: Afrobeats is becoming a global movement. What excites me is how artists are pushing boundaries and blending the sound with other genres. I see it becoming a staple in mainstream music worldwide.
SB : How do you see your own role in shaping the future of the genre?
Mr EAZI: My role is to continue innovating and creating platforms for intellectual IP to shine.
SB : Can you share any details about upcoming projects or collaborations that you’re particularly excited about?
Mr EAZI: I’m working on some exciting collaborations with artists from different continents. I’m also expanding the ChopLife Sound system project, which is all about reimagining music and live experiences.
SB : Music can be both deeply personal and a universal language. In your quietest moments, what has music given you that no other part of your life has?
Mr EAZI: Music has given me peace. It’s a space where I can express myself without limits and connect with people in ways words alone can’t.
SB : When you think about your creative process, do you feel that inspiration comes from within, or do you find yourself as more of a conduit for something greater?
Mr EAZI: It’s both. Sometimes inspiration feels like it’s flowing through me from something greater, and other times, it’s a reflection of my inner world. It’s a beautiful blend of the two.
SB : The music industry, like life, is often unpredictable. How do you handle moments of uncertainty or doubt, and where do you turn when the path forward seems unclear?
Mr EAZI: I remind myself why I started and lean on my faith. Talking to my close circle helps too. Moments of doubt are opportunities to grow.
SB: How do you see African artists influencing industries beyond music?
Mr EAZI : African artists are redefining fashion, tech, and film. The influence goes beyond sound—it’s about culture, storytelling, and innovation.
SB: What advice would you give to aspiring artists who are facing moments of doubt?
Mr EAZI : Believe in your uniqueness, and don’t be afraid to fail. Every setback is part of your story, and persistence always pays off.
When an artist creates, my fear is always one. I say this from outside the “club”—I have no musical skills—but I worry simply: how can a new idea ever hope to compete, even in a small way, with the attachment people seem to have developed with previous songs, treasured ones even? Mr. Eazi has shown me, in a small way, that I need not worry. His heritage would never carry a terrible tonnage. There is a great amount of work building up behind him, and even if he looked back to appreciate it, he would not turn to salt. Instead, he would hop from one lily pad to another, he is endlessly capable of creating, after all and that he will, create all the things that make Mr. Eazi iconic.
AUTHORED – Neone Adebayo.