Mekks: Nigerian-born, US-based Artist Riding the Afrobeats Wave

Introduction:

In a recent interview, we had the opportunity to sit down with Mekks, a talented Nigerian-born artist making waves in the US music industry. Despite being a relatively new face on the scene, Mekks has already captivated listeners with his unique blend of afrosoul and afro R&B. In this exclusive interview, we delve into Mekks' musical journey, his influences, his aspirations, and his upcoming projects.

A Musical Journey Rooted in Passion:

Mekks' musical journey began five years ago during his time in boarding school in Nigeria. Inspired by his cousin, who was already an artist, Mekks decided to embark on his own creative path. In February, he officially entered the professional music scene with his debut song, signaling the beginning of an exciting career.

Afrobeat Influences and Inspirations:

The growing afrobeats scene serves as Mekks' primary inspiration, driving his desire to ride the wave of this vibrant genre. He cites artists like Oxlade, Blaqbonez, Victony, Burna Boy, and the emerging talent Zinoleesky as major influences on his sound. Mekks is eager to contribute to the new wave of afrobeats artists and make his mark in the industry.

A Unique Blend: Afrosoul and Afro R&B:

While Mekks initially started as an R&B artist, he has found his musical home in the realm of afrobeats. His style can be described as afrosoul/afro R&B, showcasing his versatility and ability to explore different genres. Mekks' evolving sound reflects his growth as an artist and his willingness to experiment with various musical elements.

Impactful Moments and Encouragement:

One of the significant milestones in Mekks' musical career has been receiving positive feedback from random people who genuinely appreciate his music. These moments of validation have fueled his passion and determination to keep pushing forward, even during the challenging early stages of his journey.

The Songwriting Process and Creative Mindset:

For Mekks, songwriting is a dynamic and organic process. Inspiration strikes from everyday life experiences and the synergy with the beats he encounters. Mekks finds solace in creating music with a free mind, often locking himself away with headphones to allow the magic to flow naturally.

Collaborations and Dream Partnerships:

Open to collaborations with artists who share a chemistry with him, Mekks dreams of working with renowned artists such as Burna Boy and Ayra Star. He believes that these collaborations have the potential to create magic and elevate his musicality to new heights.

Connecting with Listeners through Meaningful Messages:

Mekks aims to connect with his listeners on a deeper level through his music. Each song carries its own message, and he encourages listeners to pay attention to the lyrics. By conveying relatable themes and emotions, Mekks hopes to create an authentic connection with his audience.

The Origin of Mekks:

Mekks' stage name originated during his boarding school days when he was given the nickname based on his last name, Omekwe. It's a playful alteration that has since stuck with him and become an integral part of his identity as an artist.

Embracing Criticism and Growth:

Mekks approaches criticism with an open mind, understanding that it can provide valuable insights for improvement. While he differentiates between constructive criticism and baseless hate, he acknowledges the importance of learning from both and striving to do better with each new release.

Balancing Personal Life and Musical Pursuits:

Despite juggling various responsibilities, including work, education, and certifications, Mekks remains determined to excel in his music career. He emphasizes the need to take things one step at a time and acknowledges the challenges and sacrifices required to strike a balance.

Goals and Aspirations:

Looking ahead, Mekks envisions himself breaking into the afrobeats scene in the coming years. With a winning formula and an unwavering work ethic, he is determined to rise to the top and leave a lasting impact on the industry.

Upcoming Projects and Collaborations:

Exciting projects lie on the horizon for Mekks. He plans to release a new single soon, followed by a joint album with his talented collaborator, 3atife, set to drop by September. These releases promise to showcase Mekks' growth as an artist and his ability to create captivating music.

Advice for Aspiring Musicians:

To aspiring musicians just starting their own musical journey, Mekks offers two crucial pieces of advice: stay true to yourself and never give up. Investing time and effort in honing your craft is essential for growth and success.

To round up, Mekks is a rising star in the afrobeats scene, bringing a fresh blend of afrosoul and afro R&B to the table. His passion, dedication, and openness to growth make him a promising artist to watch. With upcoming projects and collaborations, Mekks is poised to make a significant impact on the music industry, both in Nigeria, the United States, and beyond. As he continues to evolve his sound and connect with his listeners, Mekks represents the vibrant future of afrobeats music.