The Nigerian music scene is no stranger to emerging talent, and Banwo is the latest artist poised to make waves across Afrobeat and Hip-Hop. Hailing from Lagos, Nigeria, and now based in the United States, Banwo is crafting a unique sound that blends the vibrant rhythms of Afrobeat with the intensity of Hip-Hop, infused with a passion that radiates through every beat. His versatility and musical depth position him as one of the most promising artists to watch in the coming months.

A Journey from Lagos to the U.S.

Born in Nigeria, Banwo moved from Lagos to the United States at just seven years old, but by then, his cultural roots had already sunk deep. Growing up immersed in Nigerian music and tradition, he mastered Yoruba, a language that continues to shape his artistic voice today. His early life in Lagos provided him with a wealth of inspiration that would become the foundation of his musical journey.

When Banwo relocated to the U.S., he found new ways to channel his love for music. Surrounded by a mix of cultures and musical influences, he started expressing his creativity through music, guided by the sounds of major Nigerian artists like Davido, Wizkid, and Burna Boy. As he grew older, he expanded his repertoire, learning to play the drums and later experimenting with rap and singing.

Musical Influences and Early Inspirations

Banwo’s musical influences extend beyond Afrobeat royalty to global Hip-Hop giants like Lil Wayne and Kanye West, as well as the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Lil Wayne’s fast-paced, creative style helped Banwo develop his own rap verses, which he began to craft in his teenage years. His ability to fuse Afrobeat rhythms with Hip-Hop energy gives his music a dynamic range that appeals to fans of both genres.

The Path to Creating His Own Sound

At nine years old, Banwo first took up the drums, playing in church—a common starting point for many African artists. By age 10, he began writing his own music, and during his college years, he took the leap to recording his projects independently. Banwo invested in his own recording equipment, teaching himself how to produce and refine his sound.

Today, Banwo describes his music as a blend of Afrobeat, Hip-Hop, Pop, and R&B, giving listeners a diverse palette of sounds. His versatility sets him apart from other emerging artists, allowing him to appeal to a wide audience. If you’re a fan of any of these genres, you’re bound to find something to love in Banwo’s tracks.

Creative Process: From Inspiration to Track

Banwo’s songwriting process is spontaneous, with inspiration often hitting him at the most random moments—while driving, just before bed, or during a quiet moment in his day. Whenever a new idea sparks, he quickly records it on his phone until he can transform it into a full track. His approach to music is refreshingly organic; he relies on the flow of the moment to create lyrics and melodies that resonate.

Before diving into the recording process, Banwo often grabs some caffeine to energize his creativity. He prefers to work from home, often recording solo but occasionally inviting friends over to collaborate. This intimate setting allows him to fully immerse himself in his art, bringing out the best in his performances.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Banwo

Banwo’s commitment to his music is unwavering. With a catalog of singles and projects under his belt, he is now focused entirely on elevating his career. His passion for blending Afrobeat and Hip-Hop, along with the rich cultural and personal experiences he brings to the table, sets him apart as a true artist to watch.

In a world where genre lines are continually being blurred, Banwo’s ability to cross between the energetic beats of Afrobeat and the lyrical depth of Hip-Hop ensures that his music is both fresh and authentic. Fans of Davido, Burna Boy, or Lil Wayne will find echoes of their favorite artists, but Banwo’s distinct voice and perspective guarantee a sound that is uniquely his own.

As he continues to develop his craft and release new music, Banwo is undoubtedly on the path to becoming one of the most exciting voices to emerge from the Nigerian diaspora. Keep an ear out—Banwo’s journey is just beginning, and his music is sure to leave a lasting impact.