Interview: DeeClave Talks Music Journey, New Identity, and Upcoming EP VISION
9 March 2026
Rising Afrobeats artist DeeClave is gradually building his presence in Nigeria’s growing music scene. Born Dhntuyi Ayuba and originally known as Smart Dee, the Bauchi-born artist has been shaping his sound since beginning his music journey in 2022. Now based in Abuja, DeeClave is preparing to release his upcoming EP titled VISION.
In this interview, the artist opens up about his musical journey, the meaning behind his new name, and what fans should expect from the new project.
Q: Can you introduce yourself to people who may be hearing about you for the first time?
DeeClave:
My name is DeeClave, also known as Gold Boy. I’m an Afrobeats artist from Bauchi State, specifically Tafawa Balewa. I started my music journey in 2022, and since then I’ve been working hard to develop my sound and connect with listeners through my music.
Q: Many fans knew you as Smart Dee. Why did you decide to change your artist name to DeeClave?
DeeClave:
The change represents growth and a clearer identity for my music. Smart Dee was part of my early journey, but I wanted a name that truly represents my vision and uniqueness as an artist. DeeClave is more than just a name—it’s a concept that reflects my sound and the direction I’m going.
Q: What exactly does the name DeeClave mean?
DeeClave:
“Dee” comes from my former name Smart Dee, which itself comes from my real name. “Clave” is a musical term that represents the key rhythm that drives many Afro-influenced sounds. When you combine them, DeeClave represents me as the key to the rhythm and the energy behind my music.
Q: You’re preparing to release an EP titled VISION. What inspired this project?
DeeClave:
The EP VISION represents my mindset and the direction I see for my future in music. It’s about believing in your dreams, staying focused, and pushing forward no matter the challenges. Every track on the project reflects different emotions and experiences from my journey.
Q: What kind of sound should fans expect from the EP?
DeeClave:
Fans should expect strong Afrobeats vibes mixed with Afro-fusion elements. I like creating music that people can dance to but also relate to emotionally. The EP will have energetic rhythms, catchy melodies, and messages about life, hustle, and ambition.
Q: How has your background influenced your music?
DeeClave:
Growing up in northern Nigeria exposed me to different cultures and sounds. Those experiences shaped my creativity and the stories I tell through music. My journey from Bauchi to Abuja also influenced my perspective as an artist.
Q: What message do you want listeners to take from your music?
DeeClave:
I want people to feel motivated when they listen to my music. Life has challenges, but if you stay focused on your vision, you can achieve great things. My music is about hope, resilience, and believing in yourself.
Q: What are your goals for the future?
DeeClave:
My goal is to keep growing as an artist and take my music to a global audience. Afrobeats is already reaching the world, and I want to contribute to that movement with my own sound and identity.
As he prepares to release his EP VISION, DeeClave continues to position himself as one of the promising independent voices emerging from Nigeria’s vibrant Afrobeats scene. Fans and listeners can expect more music and updates from the artist as he steps further into the DeeClave era.
In this interview, the artist opens up about his musical journey, the meaning behind his new name, and what fans should expect from the new project.
Q: Can you introduce yourself to people who may be hearing about you for the first time?
DeeClave:
My name is DeeClave, also known as Gold Boy. I’m an Afrobeats artist from Bauchi State, specifically Tafawa Balewa. I started my music journey in 2022, and since then I’ve been working hard to develop my sound and connect with listeners through my music.
Q: Many fans knew you as Smart Dee. Why did you decide to change your artist name to DeeClave?
DeeClave:
The change represents growth and a clearer identity for my music. Smart Dee was part of my early journey, but I wanted a name that truly represents my vision and uniqueness as an artist. DeeClave is more than just a name—it’s a concept that reflects my sound and the direction I’m going.
Q: What exactly does the name DeeClave mean?
DeeClave:
“Dee” comes from my former name Smart Dee, which itself comes from my real name. “Clave” is a musical term that represents the key rhythm that drives many Afro-influenced sounds. When you combine them, DeeClave represents me as the key to the rhythm and the energy behind my music.
Q: You’re preparing to release an EP titled VISION. What inspired this project?
DeeClave:
The EP VISION represents my mindset and the direction I see for my future in music. It’s about believing in your dreams, staying focused, and pushing forward no matter the challenges. Every track on the project reflects different emotions and experiences from my journey.
Q: What kind of sound should fans expect from the EP?
DeeClave:
Fans should expect strong Afrobeats vibes mixed with Afro-fusion elements. I like creating music that people can dance to but also relate to emotionally. The EP will have energetic rhythms, catchy melodies, and messages about life, hustle, and ambition.
Q: How has your background influenced your music?
DeeClave:
Growing up in northern Nigeria exposed me to different cultures and sounds. Those experiences shaped my creativity and the stories I tell through music. My journey from Bauchi to Abuja also influenced my perspective as an artist.
Q: What message do you want listeners to take from your music?
DeeClave:
I want people to feel motivated when they listen to my music. Life has challenges, but if you stay focused on your vision, you can achieve great things. My music is about hope, resilience, and believing in yourself.
Q: What are your goals for the future?
DeeClave:
My goal is to keep growing as an artist and take my music to a global audience. Afrobeats is already reaching the world, and I want to contribute to that movement with my own sound and identity.
As he prepares to release his EP VISION, DeeClave continues to position himself as one of the promising independent voices emerging from Nigeria’s vibrant Afrobeats scene. Fans and listeners can expect more music and updates from the artist as he steps further into the DeeClave era.
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