“Since I began singing professionally, my motivation has always been to see my journey through to the end. I’ve listened to many musicians over the years, but my primary drive has always been to complete what I started. Over time, I’ve learned to become my own motivation. My achievements continue to inspire me to strive for more and achieve even greater things.”
– PRYME ON HIS PRIMARY MOTIVATIONS AS AN ARTISTE.
A new phase beckons for Nigerian Afrobeats act, Pryme. Born Promise Chibuike Nwabueze, Pryme has carved a niche for himself in recent years as an artiste and a songwriter. While he signed a major record deal in July 2023, his first major moment came on the 2018 track, ‘Kilode’ which featured Peruzzi and Davido.
His 2023 single, ‘Lavida’ has garnered healthy listenership across Africa and beyond, charting on Apple Music Nigeria Top 100, Shazam and Deezer Turkey. As a capper, its music video has also gained over a hundred thousand YouTube views. Two years prior, he released his debut EP, Crescendo. His notable songwriting credits include Iyanya’s ‘One Side’, released in 2022 and Davido’s ‘Away’, off the latter’s Timeless album.
On the backdrop of his latest single, ‘Gbera’ which features Bella Shmurda, Pryme walks us through the inspiration behind the record and his artistic motivations. In addition, he sheds some light on the impact of his record deal and his standout lessons as an artiste.
A-T: In July 2023, you made a major career move by signing a record deal with G-Worldwide Entertainment. This coincided with your collaboration with Kizz Daniel on the Maverick album track, ‘Show You Off’. How have these developments shaped your artistry?
PRYME: These career developments have boosted me in many areas of my artistry, and I’m grateful for them. Now, I’m more confident, calculated, and developed in my projects. I’m also excited about the great things ahead in my music journey.
A-T: What inspired your latest single, ‘Gbera’?
PRYME: The inspiration for this song began in the bathroom as I reflected on a memorable encounter with a girl who liked me and the special moments we shared. I won’t say too much, but that’s where the chorus of the song came from. The next day, I contacted my producer, Xtofa, and we headed to the studio to work on the beat. Once we added the chorus, the rest of the words just flowed naturally. It felt like the universe was aligned with me, allowing the song to grow into the masterpiece it is now.
A-T: An interesting backstory, we must say. What are your expectations from the single?
PRYME: I have very positive expectations for this song. I believe it will resonate across Africa and the world, even in non-English speaking countries.
A-T: Over the years as an artiste, what have stood out as your major motivations?
PRYME: Since I began singing professionally, my motivation has always been to see my journey through to the end. I’ve listened to many musicians over the years, but my primary drive has always been to complete what I started. Over time, I’ve learned to become my own motivation. My achievements continue to inspire me to strive for more and achieve even greater things.
A-T: Well said. What have been your major lessons and takeaways in your artistic journey?
PRYME: The major lessons I’ve learned on my journey include always being ready at any moment and maintaining a presentable appearance, as opportunity meets preparedness. I’ve also learned to stay true to myself and take in good advice along the way.
A-T: That’s more like it. Which of your records and performances stand out the most for you, and why?
PRYME: All of my records stand out uniquely due to their different vibes. Right now, ‘Gbera’ is my top track.
A-T: Which came first for you: singing or songwriting?
PRYME: Singing was my first focus, and songwriting followed later.
A-T: As a songwriter, how do you deal with crafting quality, memorable lyrics in a saturated music landscape?
PRYME: I used to put myself in the artist’s realm to create music tailored for them, but now, I’m focusing more on myself as a singer and no longer open to writing songs for others.
A-T: Very well then. What more can fans and the general audience expect from Pryme in 2024?
PRYME: Look forward to more bangers, collaborations, and plenty of exciting things this year. I have some surprises in store, so stay tuned and follow me for the latest updates.
– This interview was conducted and written by Clinton Durueke, an Album Talks writer (X: @ClintCDurueke).
