Bibicentric is a talented musician & live performer from Lagos, Nigeria.
The artist recently released a body of work – Monophobia – that has received rave reviews from all corners.
Hi, Bibicentric! Can you tell us a bit about yourself? How are you coping with the lockdown?
Hi guys, my name is Bibicentric. I’m a soul-singer, songwriter, performer and entrepreneur. I’m currently in Lagos. It’s not been so easy but if life gives you lemons, you make lemonade, right? So I’m really using this time to get to know a lot about myself, my music and just life in general.
What was growing up like for you?
I grew up in Lagos – Surulere precisely. My mum is from Badagry and my dad is from Ondo state. Growing up was interesting. I mean, we had a roof over our heads, had good food and very good education as well. We spent some time with granny and we learnt a whole a lot about life. Historically, my dad’s family has been attached to the talking drum so I guess that’s where I got the music blood from [blushes]. I was a very energetic kid – I loved to sing every time.
What kind of music did you listen to, growing up?
I started listening to music very early because my mum really loves good music. From tapes of Ebenezer Obey, K1 De Ultimate, Haruna Ishola and a lot of these legends. I grew to love Soul music because I could really relate and vibe with it easily – Nina Simone, Amy Winehouse, Celin Dion, Anita Baker and a lot of other soul singers.
When did you start creating music? When did you start pursuing it professionally?
I started making music at fifteen in my first year at the university. It was so much fun because I had to perform to a lot of my friends. I didn’t know I was going to do it professionally, I just knew it was something I loved to do. I went to a music school for a short while before going into the university just to get good knowledge. Officially, I started five years ago but it was a bit on and off because of finances and school. I kicked it off again officially last year and it’s been a really good experience since then.
Who & what inspires you to make music now?
I get inspired by moods, personal experiences and also, Soul music. I’ve got a lot of them. Old school – Nina Simone, Anita Baker, Amy Winehouse. New School – H.E.R, Summer Walker, Sam Smith.
How would you describe the kind of music you make? What genre?
My music is full of emotions – love, pain, pleasure, happiness. I do Soul Music, RnB, Jazz, Neo Soul and I want people to feel the real emotions in every song. I want them to be able to relate with my music.
Do you play any musical instruments? Can you produce and engineer yourself?
I’m a baby guitarist – I just learnt a bit. I’m planing on learning production too, but right now, I’ve got the best team of music producers. Most times, I’d have an idea of the song I want to record before going to the studio. I’d share the idea with my producer and he’d come up with a beat so we can work on it together.
When you create, what’s your process like? What are some things you do to get into the zone to create?
I like to do research on the type of song I want to create, and check for people that have created similar sounds. I listen to the songs for a whole day, light my scented sticks and just enjoy the music.
Have you ever performed on stage? How did it feel?
I’ve performed live a lot – that’s where my strength lies. I’ve performed at Freedom Park, Bay Lounge, Radisson Blu, Intercontinental Hotel and a lot of other places where people enjoy live music. When I’m on stage, it feels like I’m in my own world and I’m unstoppable. I feel no pain, I feel no worries – just good vibes and good music.
How is support from your family regarding your musicy?
My family has always been a great support system for me. Even when I was just starting out, they were always there for me.
What has been the most challenging aspect of your career as an emerging artist & producer?
The challenge now is availability of funds. Music needs good pushing and heavy promotion. To do these, one needs to have enough funds.
Will you rather be independent or sign to a record label right now? Why?
I love being independent. I really just want to enjoy the process and really know how things are done properly, so I can have total control over my career.
What have you learnt the most so far in your music and life journey?
I’ve learnt that I should keep making good music and stay true to it. Also, I will not try to conform to the stereotypical perceptions of the average female artist in Nigeria.
Many artists have distinctive visual brands. What would you say is your fashion style? Do you have a stylist?
My style is simple, sexy and comfortable. Yes, I work with some brands like Moe Gear and Aoki luxury brand.
How frequently do you release music? What influences your decision on when to drop music?
I recently dropped an EP I titled Monophobia. I really need my voice to be heard, so I have to keep dropping nice tunes.
What was the idea behind Monophobia?
Monophobia – the fear of being alone. It’s a project born out of mixed feelings.
If given the chance, would you: Reinvent the wheel or build a new chariot?
I’d build a new chariot.
What’s the goal for you? What would a successful career for you look like?
Winning a Grammy would mean a lot to me.
Would you take a 9 to 5 job to supplement your income or do music full-time?
I’ll do full time music.
Where can people reach you on all platforms ?
Instagram: @bibicentric
Twitter: @Bibicentric_
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