Mr. Eazi: The Trailblazer of Banku Music and Artistic Fusion
Mr. Eazi’s Travelling Art and Music Exhibition inspired by his album ‘The Evil Genius,’ premiered in Lagos at the Windsor Gallery. This unique presentation, blending music and art, offered an immersive cultural experience that transcends conventional boundaries, captivating Lagosians and visitors. It remains on display until December 30.
Sponsored by Glenfiddich Whisky, the monumental success of the opening night was amplified by the debut of Mr. Eazi’s highly anticipated art book. Esteemed guests from the realms of art, music, and entertainment, including Chef Elégbèdé, Joeboy, and Laycon, also contributed to the vibrant atmosphere of this historic event.
Oluwatosin Oluwole Ajibade, popularly known as Mr. Eazi, is a name that resonates vibrantly in the realms of African music and entrepreneurship. Born on July 19, 1991 in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, Mr. Eazi’s journey through life has been as eclectic as his music. Raised in an environment filled with music and entrepreneurship, played pivotal roles in shaping his future.
Mr. Eazi’s early life is marked by a blend of cultures, growing up in Nigeria and later moving to Ghana. His education led him to Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Ghana, where he studied Mechanical Engineering. During his time at KNUST, his music career began to take shape. He ventured into the entertainment world, starting a promotion company called Swagger Entertainment, and recorded his first track, “My Life”. This marked the beginning of a journey that would see him become one of Africa’s most influential artists.
Musically, Mr. Eazi is renowned for pioneering Banku music, a unique blend of Ghanaian highlife and Nigerian chord progressions, characterised by its percolating rhythms and laid-back vocal delivery. His breakthrough came in 2015 with the release of “Bankulize”. He gained international acclaim with “Life Is Eazi, Vol. 1 — Accra to Lagos” in 2016. Collaborations with artists like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Major Lazer further cemented his global presence.
Beyond music, Mr. Eazi is a visionary entrepreneur. He founded emPawa Africa, a talent incubation initiative to nurture young African artists. This endeavor highlights his commitment to fostering new talents in the African music scene. His entrepreneurial spirit also extends to various ventures, including food distribution, gold mining, and even the soft drinks industry.
In recent years, Mr. Eazi has been at the forefront of a growing trend among musicians who integrate contemporary artworks into the promotion of their music. This trend is not just a marketing strategy but a testament to the evolving relationship between music and visual arts, creating immersive experiences that transcend traditional boundaries.
Mr. Eazi’s recent exhibition in Lagos, based on his album ‘The Evil Genius,’ is a prime example of this trend. It featured 16 unique artworks, each representing a track from the album, created in collaboration with artists from eight African countries. This exhibition is a clear indication that the fusion of music and art is a trend with staying power, continually reshaping the landscape of artistic expression.
Mr. Eazi’s journey from a young choir member in Nigeria to a global music icon and entrepreneur is a story of passion, innovation, and cultural integration. His influence extends beyond the music industry, inspiring a new generation of artists and entrepreneurs across Africa and beyond. As he continues to break new ground, Mr. Eazi remains a pivotal figure in the ever-evolving tapestry of African art and music.
Mr. Eazi is more than just a musical artist; he is a cultural innovator and a bridge between worlds. His life story, from the vibrant streets of Port Harcourt to the prestigious halls of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and beyond, mirrors his music’s journey, a blend of diverse influences creating something truly unique. Pioneering Banku music, Mr. Eazi has not only carved a niche in the global music scene but also redefined what African music can be.
His entrepreneurial ventures and initiatives like emPawa Africa reflect a deep commitment to fostering talent and giving back to the community. By seamlessly integrating contemporary art into his music promotion, Mr. Eazi stands at the forefront of a new era in music and art, symbolizing the ever evolving and dynamic nature of African creativity.
