The Nigerian music industry is one which lewd lyrics and cacophony is the norm. However, Ibejii is a mysterious artiste who’s unique style of music continues to rise up the ladder of reckoning and regard.
The artiste, daring and compelling, entered the Nigerian music arena some two years ago, with his release of the critically-acclaimed single, ‘Ayanfe’, a love song that speaks chivalry and love in its purest form: “Ayanfe is my first gift to the world; a world of pure souls, lovers of edifying verse, of chivalry and character – a beautiful, beautiful place. I welcome lovers of great sound to join me on this journey of self-discovery – a journey that embraces hope and promise, but also self-doubt and diffidence,” he had said while describing the track.
Ibejii first hit mainstream consciousness in August 2017 when he launched two projects simultaneously. The twin projects, ‘GreenWhiteDope 001’ and ‘GreenWhite Dope 002’ was a reflection of Ibejii’s roots as a twin, a fact that is believed to carry mystery and exceptionalism in the Yoruba culture of his heritage.
Being a twin, especially in some African societies, it will not be farfetched to say that Ibejii shares the cultural advantage of possessing and being protected by supernatural powers, a factor that presumably shapes the extraordinary talent of this multifaceted personality, whose fuller journey is yet to be told: “My journey is a subtle blend of the Taiye and the Kehinde, the seen and the undisclosed, the old and the new, African vibes and international sounds.”
For Ibejii, music “gives the opportunity to explore different themes and ideas. It enables one to push messages through a platform that is universal; that works.”
As clearly reflected in his lyrics, music for Ibejii is first about good messaging but also about sweet melody. He captures his audience through the art of skilful storytelling embellished with folklore, metaphor and vernacular. in crafting his unique sound, he explores elements from traditional Yoruba folk, jazz, dance, RnB, Juju among other genres. His diversity of genre is supported by his belief that human moods vary and his music which is transcendent touches on diverse topical issues, from love to hope, migration politics to leadership, etc.
Like many who appreciate and purvey great music, Ibejii was born into a home that enjoyed a rich mix of tunes from the 60s, 70s and 80s. This which played a huge role in fanning the embers of interest in good music and creativity.
Being born in London, UK, Ibejii’s nation of birth and early nurture works a dynamic duo with his nation of origin which influences his unique blend of African and international motifs in the creation of his music. His music is cross-cultural, cross-continental, and truly delights music lovers from diverse continents and musical orientation.
Ibejii is sophisticated, thoughtful, idealistic, dynamic and inquisitive; these attributes endear him to his core fans. He is famous for his navy-blue tunic, Afros and sometimes, his fedora hat; an ensemble that speaks ‘style’, ‘timeless’, ‘daring’ and ‘openness’.
In December 2017, Ibejii made a huge impression as guest artiste at the Brymo Concert at Terra Kulture Arena, Lagos where he held a huge concert audience spellbound with his sterling performance.
He is set to hold his maiden headline concert, ‘The Ibejii Live Experience’, at the African Arts Foundation (AAF), Victoria Island,
Lagos, on Tuesday, 29th May 2018. Tickets are already on sale and in very high demand and for, lovers of great music, it promises to be a great evening of live beautiful music.
The artiste is also set to launch his third album project though the name hasn’t been made public.