Ajofé blends Afrobeat with modern vibes, influenced by Fela Kuti and Jay-Z. His music reflects his Nigerian roots and American life. With a disciplined approach honed in the US Army, he’s leading the #AfroGrooveRevolution. Collaborators include Jehdai, Mike Bozzi, and Black Magic. Regina Askia drops soon.

1. What’s the magic behind your “Afro Groove” sound? How do you blend Afrobeat with modern vibes so seamlessly?

The “Groove” in the name is the magic (haha). But honestly, it’s all about my approach to each song. I listen to a wide range of music, from R&B to pop rock, and all those influences shape my sound. The result is infectious melodies that naturally make you move—it’s all in the groove!

2. Fela Kuti meets Jay-Z—how do these two legends inspire your music?

Growing up, I listened to a lot of Fela (shoutout to my dad). His raw storytelling deeply resonated with me, and I see its influence whenever people comment on how unfiltered my lyrics are. Jay-Z, on the other hand, masters weaving personal experiences into his music. I strive to do the same—expressing more than just creating.

3. ‘Regina Askia’ as a title is such a vibe. How did that childhood crush turn into a song?

Haha, when you put it like that, it sounds like I’m writing about a crush! But really, Regina Askia symbolizes a specific era of my life that many people my age can relate to. She represented rebellion in Most Wanted, a movie I loved as a teenager. That feeling inspired me to explore the bigger picture: the disconnect between kids and parents on “off-limits” topics. The song uses that metaphor to delve into identity, expectations, and being misunderstood.

4. You explore so many genres in your albums and EPs. How do you decide what sounds to play with?

Honestly, I don’t plan it. I approach every project with zero expectations, letting myself fully express whatever I’m feeling at the moment. The sound follows naturally from that process.

5. Starting your music journey at 14 must’ve been wild. What sparked it all back then?

Watching 2hotz and Big-Lo on TV was a game-changer for me. Their unconventional style had so much vibe and ruggedness that I started writing in pidgin to capture that same energy.

6. From being in the US Army to creating Afrobeat bangers, how do those life experiences show up in your music?

Discipline is the constant. Whether it’s sticking to a release schedule or a recording plan, the discipline I learned in the Army keeps me focused and committed to the mission.

7. Your songs are a mix of African heritage and American life. How do you balance those two influences?

I’m a student of experience. My stories are shaped by my upbringing in Nigeria and my current life in the US. My music reflects the blend of those two worlds.

8. Looking back at your debut single, “Oh Boy Weytin?”—how does it feel now, compared to where you are today?

It feels worlds apart. Back then, I was just a teenager eager to make music. Now, I see music as a medium to express myself and tell stories. Success today is about completing meaningful songs, not just chasing fame.

9. ‘Regina Askia’ touches on childhood dynamics with parents. Why was this theme important for you to explore?

Over the last few years, I’ve been on a journey of self-discovery and healing. This song reconnects me with my inner child, exploring how relationships with parents shape our lives and interactions today.

10. You’ve tackled some big topics in your music. What’s one theme or story you’re itching to write about next?

Honestly, it depends on where life takes me. Whatever I’m venting about during my next studio session will likely inspire my next song!

11. Tell us about this #AfroGrooveRevolution you’re leading—what’s the mission?

It’s about raw, unapologetic expression. I feel Afrobeat is ready for deeper messaging, and I want to lead that charge with honesty and emotion.

12. What’s your studio vibe like? Do you plan everything, or is it all about catching the moment?

It’s all in the moment. I never know what I’m writing about until I’m done. I focus on expressing myself first, then reflect on what I’ve created.

13. Any shoutouts to collaborators or producers who’ve helped shape your sound?

Absolutely. Jehdai, aka “The Oracle,” deserves a huge shoutout—he built my confidence in my process. Also, Mike Bozzi, Focus Ramon, Prizzie, and Jake Gordon—each played a part in shaping my sound and growth.

14. As a tech enthusiast, how do you bring that passion into your music-making process?

I see no difference between art and tech. Music production feels like software engineering to me—it’s all self-expression at its core.

15. With ‘Regina Askia’ dropping soon, what’s next? Any sneak peeks you can share about upcoming projects?

There’s a lot coming! I have around 30 unreleased songs and five videos in the works. Plus, some exciting collaborations with artists like Ajebo Hustlers and Black Magic. Stay tuned!