In a music scene dominated by Afrobeats, there’s an artist who’s carving out his own niche and gaining attention for his distinct sound—meet Ebisole, the innovative Nigerian artist behind Afrolive. Born out of a love for Afrobeats, Igbo Highlife, and traditional African rhythms, Afrolive is the self-acclaimed genre that sets Ebisole apart from the rest. With a blend of contemporary and cultural influences, Ebisole is quickly becoming a name to know in Nigeria’s booming music industry.
The Early Days: Music Born from Passion
Ebisole’s journey into music started early. He was deeply influenced by gospel music, particularly the works of legendary artist Panam Percy Paul, whose songs shaped his musical perspective. Growing up, Ebisole was fascinated by the harmonies and lyrical depth of gospel, which inspired him to start singing and experimenting with his own sound.
By 2008, Ebisole’s talent was ready for the big leagues. A chance meeting with Mekoyo, co-producer of the iconic group Styl-Plus, propelled him into the professional music world. That year, he recorded his first song, marking the beginning of a career that would see him continuously evolve as an artist.
Ebisole’s Signature Sound: Introducing Afrolive
What makes Ebisole stand out is his ability to infuse different sounds and styles into a cohesive and dynamic genre that he calls Afrolive. This unique sound is a fusion of mainstream Afrobeats, the traditional beats of Igbo Highlife, and the raw rhythms of Ogene—a popular Igbo percussion genre. Together, these elements create a vibrant and energetic sound that speaks to the soul of African music lovers.
For Ebisole, music is a reflection of reality. His songs are often inspired by daily life and societal issues, offering listeners a message of resilience and perseverance. He emphasizes, “Reality check is the message—whatever you sing has to do with what’s happening in society.”
Discography: Hits that Resonate
Ebisole has been steadily building his discography, releasing songs that highlight his growth as an artist. In 2014, he dropped Going Loko, a track that showcased his unique blend of Afro sounds. He followed it up with Open the Border in 2016, another fan favorite that cemented his place in the industry.
His latest single, Work Hard (2024), featuring Abia State’s music powerhouse Exnel, has been met with acclaim. The song’s message of dedication and hustle resonates with listeners, particularly in a world where hard work is often seen as the key to success. As Ebisole puts it, “Whatever you do in life, to become successful, you must work hard.”
Fans are eagerly awaiting his next release, Otego, which is set to drop soon and promises to be a massive hit.
Performances with Nigerian Legends
Ebisole has shared stages with some of Nigeria’s most prominent music legends, including Duncan Mighty, Edris Abdukareem, Terry G, and 2Hotz. These performances, alongside such icons, have been a defining moment in his career, yet Ebisole insists that every performance is special. His goal is to create memorable experiences for his audience, delivering music that connects on an emotional level.
What’s Next for Ebisole? Music and Beyond
Ebisole is not just a musician—he’s a multifaceted entertainer with plans to expand his artistry into acting. He has hinted at future projects in film, giving his fans even more to look forward to. Whether it’s through music or acting, Ebisole is committed to leaving a lasting legacy and using his platform to inspire others.
When he’s not in the studio or performing, Ebisole enjoys playing video games, indulging in football, and other sports like table tennis. His wide range of interests fuels his creativity, allowing him to bring new energy into his music and performances.
Conclusion: A Star on the Rise
Ebisole is more than an artist; he is a storyteller, a performer, and a cultural ambassador, representing the future of Nigerian music. With his unique Afrolive sound, his powerful lyrics, and his passion for creating music that mirrors society, Ebisole is poised to become a major figure in both the Afrobeats scene and the broader African entertainment industry. As fans wait for his upcoming hit Otego, one thing is clear—Ebisole is a name you won’t want to forget.