As the world further familiarizes itself with West African sounds and melodic innovation, Nigerian artist Oxlade strives to present authentic visions above what is being commercialized in the mainstream. Though commonly classified as an Afrobeat artist, what he contributes sonically extends beyond a singular genre. The Afrobeats umbrella houses a multitude of African musical genres and some of the world’s largest talents.
“Africa means everything to me,” he explained during his New York press tour. “…Afrobeats [is not] a genre. I call it a way of life. It’s a movement. It’s an umbrella that covers every African artist.”
And as Afro-fusion recognition evolves, Oxlade wants to give his supporters a glimpse of the brilliance across his continent. The “Bad Boy” singer has achieved the mark of half a billion streams universally ahead of his anticipated full-length debut, Oxlade From Africa. The self-proclaimed “best next African export” has seen the success of Nigerian stars like Wizkid, Yemi Alade, Burna Boy, Tems, Ckay, Tiwa Savage, and Davido make waves internationally. He is also determined to become a mainstay.
Today the remix to his breakthrough hit “KU LO SA” has arrived with an assist from his label mate Camila Cabello. “I was so excited when Oxlade asked me to be on his remix because I have been such a huge fan of his… Writing my part of the song was so easy, and I knew this was going to be something special as soon as we started recording,” Cabello confirmed via Epic Records. Through the duet’s trilingual lyrics, the pair broaden the conversation on what it means to be global artists today. The Knockturnal sat down with Oxlade to learn about what Nigeria means to him, new music with Mayorkun, and what is in store for his growing fan base.
The Knockturnal: Your appearance from earlier this year at the Colors Studio went viral. How does the growing recognition of “KU LO SA” and your music feel?
Oxlade: I feel blessed. This is just a sign that I am on the right path. It has been [a positive] experience, seeing people smile, and becoming a source of joy in people’s lives. It makes me want to do more and give out good music to the people. That and the single are encouraging me.
The Knockturnal: You are from Africa and have a global fan base. What would you like your listeners to know about Nigeria’s culture and its meaning to you?
Oxlade: Nigeria means everything to me. Africa means everything to me! We have great music. We’ve got great food. We have great people and booze (laughs). Everything that has to do with its positivity. That is what I want people to know about Nigeria. If you come often, especially in December, you will have the time of your life. It’s a vibe.
The Knockturnal: Your new collaboration with Mayorkun, “Bad Boy,” is buzzing. How was your time working together?
Oxlade: Mayorkun is my brother, man! We go way back. He is one of the people who put me on before I broke out as an artist. I will be honest; we have always known we would make magic with one another. We really planned to put out “Bad Boy” way earlier. Due to things closing down during the pandemic, we had to chill. So, yes, “Bad Boy” is out now! I can’t wait to put out more music.
The Knockturnal: Whose idea was it for the single’s artwork to reflect Martin Lawrence and Will Smith’s Bad Boys films?
Oxlade: That was my idea (laughs)!
The Knockturnal: I saw the “Bad Boy” lyric video, will there be a follow-up with this single?
Oxlade: Oh, definitely! Yeah, we will release a music video, like a proper one. I want the grand style and 4K version (laughs). But there is another video on the way, too. Stay tuned.
The Knockturnal: You have releases within multiple genres. What are your favorite genres to record within?
Oxlade: I say anything that has Afro in it! Yes, I don’t call Afrobeats a genre. I call it a way of life. It’s a movement. It’s an umbrella that covers every African artist.
The Knockturnal: What ascending artists do you admire?
Oxlade: I admire everyone doing great things for themselves. The list is long. Yes, I don’t want to exempt anybody. And I don’t want anybody feeling any type of way (laughs). So, if you are [reading] this and you’re doing well for yourself, you are inspiring me musically.
The Knockturnal: Are there musical influences you can speak to?
Oxlade: Oh, yes, as far as my influences, there is one they call Michael Jackson (laughs). There is Drake, Bob Marley, Prince, and Ms. Lauryn Hill. My list is long. But I go back to the drawing board now and then.
That is like my hall of fame of favorite artists. They shaped my music and my sound. These are some of the people who inspire me and make me want to be a better version of myself. I mean that as a person and an artist.
The Knockturnal: What is en route musically that supporters should look out for?
Oxlade: Okay, there is a remix to the original “KU LO SA.” It has Camila Cabello on it. Camila was the only option I wanted on the remix because she is music and she also is a pure soul. [The remix] made me feel extra special. She even called it “our” song.
Also, my album drops in the first quarter of next year. The album is titled Oxlade From Africa. I am excited to put out these workings. I can’t wait! This album will give the world more versions of me and add more flavors to my melodies and sound.
The Knockturnal: You have acknowledged a forthcoming single with Camila Cabello. Who are the top three artists you hope to work with in the future?
Oxlade: Okay, my three are Chronixx, Drake, and Bruno Mars.
The Knockturnal: Who is Oxlade?
Oxlade: I am the best next African export to come out of Afrobeats. Oxlade is a street boy (laughs). He got vibes and believes in God. Oxlade is very sensitive. He loves good people and doesn’t like bad energy.