UK-based Nigerian artist oSHAMO is taking the music world by storm. After his breakout tracks in 2023 amassed over eight million streams, his latest single “Life of the Party” has exploded on TikTok, garnering millions of views and thousands of user-created videos.
Signed to Mr Eazi‘s emPawa Africa label, oSHAMO blends afrobeats and amapiano with contemporary flair, creating catchy melodies and relatable lyrics that resonate with a global audience. We sat down with oSHAMO to delve deeper into the inspiration behind this viral hit and what it means for the future of afrobeats music.
How did it feel to see your song go viral and become a trending sound?
It felt surreal because at the start of this year, I changed my sound into what really connects with my soul and it felt like a massive switch because people were already used to the old oShamo type of vibe. So posting that video and waking up to a million views really showed the acceptance and the GO-AHEAD that I’ve always felt like I needed.
The music video for “Life of the Party” is sure to be hotly anticipated. Do you have any hints about what fans can expect?
Expect everything you’ll like to see from the life of a party, the video will forever resonates in the mind of any one that loves clubbing as it constantly sparks the need to be the life of the party.
Who are some of the other artists you look up to in the Afrobeats scene?
Most of my audience can already guess my favourite artist due to the way I sing, and use wordplay. Most people say I’m an infusion of Mohbad (RIP), Burna Boy, Zinoleesky, and Asake, and I can say I actually agree with them.
What’s your favorite Afrobeats song?
Right now, there is a song called ‘Jamboree’ by Mr Eazi and Tekno, Oya baby jamboree! I love it.
What are your thoughts on the power of social media platforms like TikTok in launching music careers?
It plays a very vital role in the life of many artists without access to enough funds to actively promote their song. As the algorithm works in such a way where it’ll do the marketing without the need for you to pay, you just have to be consistent enough. And I’ll gladly say I’m proof of that testimony.
If you could throw a party with any three artists (dead or alive), who would they be and why?
Wizkid, Burna Boy, Davido. I guess this is self explanatory (laughs). I grew up listening to those three, so having them in a party won’t be too much to ask i guess (laughs).
What’s your personal philosophy on living life to the fullest?
Like I always say, it’s never about me, seeing my family and friends all happy and comfortable in their own space without the need of relying on anyone brings enough happiness and a sense of fulfillment to my heart.
What can fans expect from you for the rest of 2024? Are there any plans for an EP or a full-length album?
An album? No, but an EP, YES definitely. And I’ll leave this here. This EP will bring about the start of a new sound, and new artists that will leave their comfort zone to create something truly magical that’ll truly resonate with their soul.
