Mani Lapussh’s journey into music reads like an open book, each page echoing the resilience, love, and discipline he learned growing up in the streets of Obiagu, Enugu. “I come from a very humble background,” he begins. “My parents are retired teachers, and that came with a lot of discipline. Growing up in the streets of Obiagu wasn’t rosy, but my parents ensured my three siblings and I never lacked anything. I have a very supportive family, and they are the reason I do this.”
Music isn’t just a passion for Mani—it’s an instinct that has lived inside him for as long as he can remember. “I have always had a special place in my heart for music from childhood,” he says. “It’s not something you can explain, really. I mentioned in one of the songs I released earlier this year that music is to me what sex is to a nympho. It’s like an addiction.”
From early on, Mani was exposed to a blend of local and foreign sounds, with influences that shaped his sense of artistry including the likes of Bob Marley, Osita Osadebe, P-Square, Mr. Raw, Illbliss, Phyno, and lots more. Mani’s love for “good music” refuses boundaries, genres, or cultural lines. “I don’t like to box myself into any genre or culture. I believe music is a universal sound, and I connect with great sounds regardless of the language or genre.”
When asked to define his style, the Enugu bred artist calls it the “Akpaka sound.” describing it as “a perfect blend of Rap, Igbo indigenous sounds, and pop music.” For him, it’s about bridging depth with melody and creating a relatable sound that resonates with “the guy on the streets of Onitsha and Abakpa.”
Although the Enugu State University graduate of Political Science started as a rapper within the four walls of his alma mater, his musical journey took a professional turn in 2023. He recalls his roots in showbiz from his student days, “I remember I was able to pull off the first show in ESUT Auditorium those days. We pulled a crowd of 1,000+ that day and attracted sponsorship from Indomie and Airtel. But after school, I went on a long hiatus with plans to return someday.”
Reflecting on his journey, he says, “The journey has been fulfilling. I have learned so many lessons through the journey. All I can say is that the music industry is different. It’s not what you imagine from the outside.” The transition back into the music scene came naturally. “I’ve been out of the scene for a long time, and during that period, I never stopped writing, you know. I started recording again in 2022, so the catalogue was a lot.”
One single in particular, “Nekwam”, speaks directly to the journey he’s been on. “Just like the name implies, “Nekwam” is ‘Look at me’ in Igbo language. After the success of “Ifeoma”, many people wanted to know who I am, which prompted the song “Nekwam”.
Mani takes a grounded approach to his career’s future, letting things unfold on their own accord. “I honestly try to keep my expectations low. I always do my best and put it all in God’s hands.”
Fans have much to expect, as Mani hints at what’s coming next after the release of his two-pack singles, “Only You” and “Why Me” “There are more great songs coming your way. I have done many songs with many other artists, and they will be out soon. My EP will be out by the first quarter of next year so stay locked in.”
While we relish the goodness of the masterpiece “Only You/Why Me” and anticipate new music, one thing remains evident: Mani Lapussh is a storyteller and a relentless artist dedicated to shaping a path uniquely his own. His is a story of dedication and raw talent, bound together by the sounds of home and heart.
