Yugoszn: The Complete NextGen Artiste. [Exclusive Interview]

Slow and steady, Yugoszn is edging his way into superstardom.

Any conversation about the most talented underground artistes in the country is incomplete without Yugoszn in the mix. Birth forth into the industry during the advent on the world-wide pandemic in 2020, Yugoszn has taken an almost perfect next steps to solidify himself as one of the best new talents to emerge into a superstar from that era.

In our conversation with this brooding superstar, we catch up with him to discuss about his artistry and career as well as his forthcoming debut project.

ALBUM TALKS: So, let’s begin with you telling us some important details about yourself and your background.

YUGOSZN: My name is Yugo (derived from the Igbo name “Ugochukwu” which means “God’s glory”) I’m from the east, Imo state specifically, but I grew up in Lagos. I started making music as early as when I was in Primary school.

ALBUM TALKS: Wow ! How early did you discover your musical abilities and what steps did you take to nurture it?

YUGOSZN: I discovered my musical abilities as early as Primary 4 (2015) and I started educating myself on topics concerning music production. I also started dancing alongside making music, like Michael Jackson but the African version.

ALBUM TALKS: It’s not often we see creatives with multiple skills, what other ability do you have in your armoury?

YUGOSZN: I make beats, I was very good at drawing at a time but unfortunately I didn’t take that seriously.

ALBUM TALKS: I understand the need to focus on a certain ability. Since you chose music, what edge did it have over the other abilities?

YUGOSZN: It didn’t really affect my ability to make beats due to the fact that the beats and instrumentals also play a role in the creation of my music.

[READ]: Yugo starts the year with a masterpiece.

ALBUM TALKS: Cool. Take us on a quick guide through your early musical influences and how they helped you find your feet in music making.

YUGOSZN: One of my early musical influence was Michael Jackson because of the way his music made people feel. The impact it had and how much it resonated with different audience. Some other influence include Eminem, Dave and Stormzy because of their ability to pass important messages with their music through constructive lyricism. This is something I really admire so much. Also, the African superstars like Davido, Wizkid, Burna boy and many more who played an important role in the influence of my Afrobeats sound.

ALBUM TALKS: This is a mix of different sonic profiles. How has it been applying their influence in your current sound?

YUGOSZN: So far, I would say it has helped me to discover my own unique sound that stands out from the rest of other artists in the music industry.

ALBUM TALKS: Alright. Let’s talk about your musical journey. How has it been so far?

YUGOSZN: The journey has been wonderful so far, I’m really grateful for how far I’ve come and where I’m heading.

ALBUM TALKS: Share with us a few highs and lows you have encountered?

YUGOSZN: Some of the lows would be some days where I don’t feel Inspired to make music or sometimes comparing myself to the stars of the Industry which I’m not supposed to be doing. The highs would include getting to meet and connect with likeminded people in the music industry and also being privileged to perform alongside some of the African stars at the ISL festival last year.

[LISTEN] Before Before by Yugoszn.

ALBUM TALKS: Tell us about your new single “Before Before“. How did it come about, what was the inspiration?

YUGOSZN: The inspiration behind the “Before before” track was a one sided relationship where I was showing 24/7 love and she on the other hand showed no love and was always demanding materialistic things.

ALBUM TALKS: How did the recording process go, was it a one-time thing or took time to piece the ideas together?

YUGOSZN: I recorded the idea at home, and then linked up with producer named “Chillz” to bring the idea to life. During the recording session, I added some extra ideas to the song and it turned into this masterpiece.

ALBUM TALKS: It is really a master piece. Streets have it that it is the lead single to your debut project, what do you say?

YUGOSZN: Yes, it’s the lead single to my forthcoming debut EP and I’m excited cause I can’t wait to show it to the world.

ALBUM TALKS: We really can’t wait to get it too because this song just increased our hunger for it. Can you share with us some things to expect on the project?

YUGOSZN: It’s gonna be full of different vibes. I’m not gonna say much but the fans should expect some melodic vocals and a lot of ear candy.

[LISTEN] Before Before by Yugo.

ALBUM TALKS: Its about to sound heavenly I guess. What are the next steps you intend to take as an artist?

YUGOSZN: By God’s grace, I’m working on an album and I’m making more songs. I’m hoping to work with a lot of artists in the future and get to make good music with them.

ALBUM TALKS: If you had to choose, what artist would you like to work with at home and abroad?

YUGOSZN: When it comes to the outskirts of Nigeria, I’d love to work with The weekend. While, back home in Nigeria I’d love to do an album with Rema.

ALBUM TALKS: Alright. Do you have any message you would like to leave for your fans?

YUGOSZN: Pray, stay consistent, don’t stop, stay happy, go listen to “Before before” on all platforms, go follow my instagram @Yugoszn and stay blessed.

Check out Yugo’s year opener “Before Before” here, as he readies his debut studio project.