Oxlade, whose real name is Ikuforiji Olaitan Abdulrahman, is a Nigerian singer and songwriter known for his Afro-fusion sound that blends elements of Afrobeats, R&B, and dancehall. Born on April 22, 1997, in Lagos, Nigeria, Oxlade has become one of the most exciting young talents in the Nigerian music industry. He gained prominence with his hit song “Away,” which earned him international recognition and solidified his place as a rising star.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Oxlade grew up in Lagos and developed a passion for music at a young age. He was influenced by various genres, including Afrobeats, reggae, hip-hop, and highlife, which shaped his unique sound. Despite facing financial challenges, he pursued his musical career with determination. His journey into music began during his time at Lagos State University (LASU), where he studied History and International Relations before eventually dropping out to focus on music full-time.
He started releasing music on SoundCloud, where he gained some attention in Nigeria’s underground music scene. However, his big break came when he was discovered by Nigerian artist Blaqbonez, who introduced him to the wider industry.
Breakthrough with “Away” and the “Oxygene” EP
Oxlade’s breakthrough came in 2020 with the release of his critically acclaimed single “Away,” a track that showcased his smooth vocals, catchy melodies, and soulful delivery. The song received massive airplay both in Nigeria and internationally, earning Oxlade a place on the global Afrobeat stage.
Following the success of “Away,” Oxlade released his debut extended play (EP) titled Oxygene in March 2020. The project, which consisted of six tracks, further established him as a versatile artist with a fresh sound. Oxygene featured a mix of love songs, upbeat Afro-fusion, and introspective lyrics, appealing to a broad audience. It included tracks like “Hold On,” “Weakness,” and “O2,” and received positive reviews from both fans and critics.
International Recognition and Collaborations
Oxlade’s growing fame attracted the attention of international artists and audiences. He has collaborated with several prominent musicians across various genres, including Sarkodie (Ghanaian rapper), DJ Tunez, Ice Prince, and Reekado Banks. His features on various projects have showcased his ability to adapt to different styles while maintaining his signature sound.
Oxlade’s international appeal has also been bolstered by his presence on major streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, where his songs have garnered millions of streams. His inclusion on Apple Music’s “Up Next” campaign, which spotlights emerging artists, further boosted his visibility on the global stage.
Style and Musical Influences
Oxlade’s music is heavily influenced by his Nigerian roots, but his sound is eclectic, drawing from diverse genres such as Afrobeats, R&B, and reggae. He often sings in a mixture of English, Pidgin, and Yoruba, creating a fusion of traditional and modern musical elements. His vocal delivery is smooth and emotive, with a distinct ability to convey both vulnerability and confidence.
Artists like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Wande Coal have influenced Oxlade’s sound, but he has also cited international acts like Usher and Chris Brown as sources of inspiration. His ability to blend the smoothness of R&B with the rhythm and soul of Afrobeats has made him stand out in Nigeria’s ever-evolving music scene.
Key Releases
– “Away” (2020): Oxlade’s breakout hit that earned widespread recognition and established him as a force in Afro-fusion.
– “Oxygene” (2020):His debut EP, showcasing his versatility and smooth vocals across six tracks.
– “Ku Lo Sa” (2022): One of his viral hits, this track further enhanced his international appeal, becoming a favorite on platforms like TikTok.
Personal Life and Future Prospects
Oxlade is known for his humble personality and often speaks about the importance of perseverance and staying true to one’s art. Despite facing early challenges in his career, including dropping out of university, he has continued to rise through hard work and creativity.
Looking forward, Oxlade is poised to have a long and successful career, with many fans eagerly awaiting his future releases. He represents the new generation of Nigerian artists who are taking Afrobeats to a global audience while remaining deeply connected to their cultural roots.
