Motivation Behind ODUMODUBLVCK's Latest 'Eziokwu' Mixtape 

[ODUMODUBLVCK/BusinessDay NG]

In the vibrant tapestry of Nigerian hip-hop, there's a sensational artist who has defied the conventional boundaries of the genre, and his name is ODUMODUBLVCK. From his breakout hit "Picanto" to his triumphant presence at the 2023 Headies, ODUMODUBLVCK has blazed a trail of sonic exploration, fusing indigenous sounds with the dynamic tapestry of hip-hop. His latest masterpiece, the highly anticipated mixtape 'Eziokwu,' is a testament to his relentless pursuit of musical innovation and cultural authenticity.

In a candid interview with Apple Music Africa Now Radio's Nandi Madiba, ODUMODUBLVCK peeled back the layers of 'Eziokwu' and revealed the profound motivations that shaped this groundbreaking project. For this visionary artist, 'Eziokwu' isn't just an album; it's a musical testament that defies the boundaries of African music history.

"In as much as it’s a hip-hop album, it has a lot of Afrobeats elements to it, afro-fusion elements, it even has Ghanaian highlife,"" the rapper explains. ""I try to make a project that has never been made before, or created before, in the history of African music. The sound has this, this, this, and that, but it still sounds like one body of work."

With 'Eziokwu,' ODUMODUBLVCK embarks on a sonic odyssey, navigating the rich diversity of African music traditions, weaving them together seamlessly. His blend of hip-hop with indigenous and Afro-fusion elements is a captivating soundscape that transcends borders and genres. Every track is a reflection of his commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is achievable in African music.

At the core of ODUMODUBLVCK's musical philosophy is his commitment to spotlighting his culture and community. Through his music, he delivers an authentic portrayal of his roots, using deep-rooted Nigerian street lingo and evoking a sense of identity that leaves no room for doubt.

"I was just trying to communicate myself and my environment, you know? That’s the easiest way to do it as an artist,"" he explains. ""I didn’t want anybody second-guessing, even down to the lingo - deep-rooted Nigerian street lingo - that when you listen… let’s say Drake listens and he loves it, any Nigerian he sees he’ll be like ‘yo, what’s the meaning of this?’ Automatically it’s dragging people towards our culture, which is the best way to sell your market, I guess. I just wanted to put myself and my community out there without second-guessing it, and that makes the music authentic."

'Eziokwu' is not just a musical exploration; it's a reflection of ODUMODUBLVCK's journey to artistic enlightenment. He believes that his talent is a divine gift, bestowed upon him by a higher power. This profound connection to the divine fuels his determination and resilience, allowing him to transcend any doubts or uncertainties.

"Music, I tell people it’s not about who has the best sound,"" he shares. ""I’m a big believer, I understand that music is from God, and God just feels like ‘ok you, let me bless you with this, let me see how much you can go into the world and multiply this talent.’ In my case, I believe everything is divine. If this or that did not stop me, then I believe nothing can stop me, so I take that energy from surviving all those traumatic experiences and use it as a shield towards any spirit of doubt or uncertainty. I’ve already been shown that omo, this p is gonna work and there is nothing that is going to stop it.""

Released on October 6, 2023, 'Eziokwu' serves as a remarkable chapter in ODUMODUBLVCK's journey. The mixtape features an impressive lineup of guest appearances, including Wale, Fireboy, Blaqbonez, Bloody Civilian, and Psycho YP, among others. It's a documentation of his recent successes, a statement of his unwavering intention to redefine the boundaries of African music, and a testament to his deep-rooted connection to his roots and culture.

As 'Eziokwu' reverberates across the music landscape, it is clear that ODUMODUBLVCK's groundbreaking fusion of tradition, innovation, and divine inspiration has created a tapestry of sound that resonates deeply with audiences and challenges the very definition of African music. In his quest to rewrite the story of African music history, ODUMODUBLVCK is on a mission, and 'Eziokwu' is just the beginning.