The multifaceted artist Zubi has been making waves across continents. His latest EP, “Journey to Idan,” has captivated audiences and critics alike, drawing acclaim from prominent platforms like Notion, Live Nation’s Ones To Watch, and GUAP Magazine. The EP’s standout track, ‘FROG,’ accompanied by a visually stunning music video, ventures into the heart of Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, offering a raw portrayal of toxic relationships endemic to the city.
Hailing from Abuja, shaped by Budapest, and creating in London, Zubi’s artistic expression transcends boundaries, resonating across continents and amassing over 250 million streams globally. His innovative spirit, reflected in the narrative richness of ‘Journey to Idan,’ continues to break barriers and promises to connect deeply with audiences worldwide.
We had chance to unravel the layers of Zubi’s creative odyssey, exploring his inspirations, collabos, and profound messages embedded within his music.
Zubi, what sparked your love for music, and can you share a pivotal moment or experience that solidified your desire to pursue it as a career?
[ZUBI]: It’s the feeling of not being alone. At a point, I felt everything was moving but I was not.. until I started listening to lyrics and saw that we were but many that feel the same, so I added myself to help people not feel alone.
Your music doesn’t seem confined by genre boundaries. Could you shed light on how you craft this unique musical identity, which seems to transcend traditional genre labels?
[ZUBI]: This is because I started from classical music to trap music, and in between was the Afro music, so I was in all that. Why stop at one when we can make all?
Can you highlight a few key artists or musical influences that have significantly impacted your artistic journey and continue to inspire your work today?
[ZUBI]: Masego, Anatu, Russ, and recently I feel Styl-Plus.
With over 250 million streams worldwide, your music has made a significant impact across diverse regions. What do you think it is about your music that resonates deeply with listeners across different cultures and geographies?
[ZUBI]: They can relate to my simple man tales. As I said before, I came to love music because I felt like I wasn’t alone so I am giving that “bro we been through this it’s ok” vibe.
The EP’s title, ‘Journey to Idan’, implies a quest or progression. Could you elaborate on the thematic significance of ‘Idan’ and how it relates to the overall journey depicted in your music?
[ZUBI]: Idan is everyone but no one. He can do everything but nothing. Before you think, Idan already done it. So for me, it is mastering my craft to be that guy that can do it all.
What sparked the creative journey for this EP, ‘Journey to Idan’? Was there a pivotal moment or experience that catalyzed the narrative you wanted to convey through this collection of songs?
[ZUBI]: At some point, I am going to make an Idan album, which would be out of this world, so I am getting people ready.
The music video for ‘FROG’ delves deep into the exploration of toxic relationships in Abuja. How did the synergy between your music and Nori Mathias’s direction help in encapsulating the emotional essence of the song? Can you elaborate on the connection between the visual narrative and the song’s message?
[ZUBI]: It’s funny how Nori is my friend and he could relate so hard to the meaning that he only saw what I felt, and his idea of someone cheating on their man with me is very calm.
You mentioned the synergy between you and your producer Iordan Adrian as crucial in creating the authenticity of ‘Frog’. How do your collaborative dynamics play a role in shaping the emotional landscape and depth of your music?
[ZUBI]: Interestingly, we’ve never met in person but there’s a way he understands what I intend to achieve on a record once he hears the idea before I lay it all out. This understanding without having to explain a lot has been integral to our dynamics.
‘Silver’ seems like a reflective conclusion to this musical odyssey. How important is introspection and self-reflection in your creative process, especially in crafting a narrative that resonates deeply with your audience?
[ZUBI]: I made it a worthy sense of duty to always close out all my projects with a reflective record that encapsulates the project and takes the audience into my mind. The mission is to always get them to go back to the first track afterwards and replay the body of work, again and again, and again.
As you navigate your next phase creatively, what aspirations or artistic ambitions drive you forward? How do you envision your musical journey unfolding from here?
[ZUBI]: I just want to be myself with my music as much as possible, have a close-knit audience that fucks with my music, stay in my niche, make my audience happy, and just keep making music for the love, joy, and fun.
Featured Image Source(s): Supplied
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