Air Jazzi, Courtesy of Air Jazzi
Hailing from Edo State, Nigeria, fast-rising artist Airjazzi was exposed to American pop and R&B early. He was fortunate enough to come from a musically inclined household. The singer’s re-occurring musical style is however greatly influenced by the local Afrobeat and highlife musical patterns that he later encountered.
Airjazzi’s music is a blend of R&B, Pop, and Afrobeat. He frequently sings about diligence, persistence, belief, and hope. His jive are frequently intimate and reflective of the society he grew up in. The singer is an ardent supporter of using his music to reflect his culture and identity.
In addition to appearing on various media platforms, Airjazzi has played in some of Lagos’ largest venues. He intends to release his debut album, which is currently in the works.
Touring, event production, increasing his fan base on internet streaming services, and cultural representation are among Airjazzi’s aspirations for his musical career. AirJazzi aspires to have a cult following of admirers who value his distinct sound and message.
The ‘Believe’ singer creates music to communicate his ideas about life and to express himself. He thinks that music can be a very effective medium for communication, and hopes that his songs will encourage people to pursue their goals.
In this Interview, Upper Entertainment caught up with the rising star as he shared more insights into his personality and artistry.
AirJazzi, Courtesy of Air Jazzi
Upper: How did you first discover your passion for music?
Air Jazzi: I grew up with a Mom and Dad who loved music a lot. I come from a background of music lovers, you know. So naturally, I guess it stuck. But I would say I first discovered my passion for music singing around family and friends. I would often get wowed remarks about how I should go into Music, and how I was good at singing. Those moments were when I discovered that I had a passion for music. But It wasn’t until later in life that I decided to take it seriously as a career, you know.
Upper: Who or what were your biggest influences growing up?
Air Jazzi: The legends mehn ( laughs). No seriously, Wizkid, Davido, D’banj, Burna Boy, P.Square, Duncan Mighty, and many too long to call were some of the biggest musical influences that I had earlier on.
Upper: Can you walk us through your songwriting or composition process?
Air Jazzi: Sure thing. I usually like to feel the music before I write it. You know, It depends on how I am feeling. If I am feeling Joyful, or playful, I usually write something happy, you know, potential club banger material. But if I am feeling reflective, or introspective, I will write something that relates to that mood. Yeah, that is my writing process.
Upper: Do you have a particular routine or ritual before you create or perform?
Air Jazzi: Not really. I love going with the flow… the music leads me.
Upper: What has been the most rewarding moment of your career so far?
Air Jazzi: Getting to have a career making music has been rewarding in itself, to be honest.
Upper: Are there any challenges you’ve faced that have shaped you as an artist?
Air Jazzi: Yes. The major challenge I have faced that has helped how I see myself as an artist is the challenge of ‘Loneliness’. I say Loneliness in the sense that being an artist, or a creative generally, means that most of the time you are in solitude. You are alone with your thoughts, ideas, and dreams. Nobody sees the artistic vision the way you can, most people around are just business-oriented, but you the artist, are stuck in that creative world, all by yourself. And it sometimes feels like a challenge having like-minded people creative-wise. But thankfully, it has helped me build strength and patience along the way.
My sound is unique even though it is a combination of familiar elements. I strongly believe in my sound, I believe so much that in the next couple of years, I will be amongst the new generation of singers taking Afro-Fusion to a new level, one song at a time.
AirJazzy, 2024
Upper: How do you stay motivated and keep evolving as a musician?
Air Jazzi: I say positive words of Affirmation to myself, reminding myself that when things get overwhelming, it is only part of the process.
Upper: How do you see your music influencing your audience or the industry?
Air Jazzi: I see my music leaving a mark on my community of listeners for years to come.
Upper: How would you describe your sound or style to someone who’s never heard your music?
Air Jazzi: Oh, it’s Afro-Fusion, but done in a way that is authentic to my worldview. My sound is unique even though it is a combination of familiar elements. I strongly believe in my sound, I believe so much that in the next couple of years, I will be amongst the new generation of singers taking Afro-Fusion to a new level, one song at a time.
Upper: Aside from Music, what is that one thing you can’t live without?
Air Jazzi: Music ( laughs).
Upper: Is there a dream collaboration or project you’d like to pursue?
Air Jazzi: I would like to work with everybody doing great things at the moment. However, my dream collaboration would be Rema. I admire his artistry and intentionality.
Upper: What are your thoughts on how streaming platforms have impacted musicians?
Air Jazzi: Streaming platforms in my opinion have made it easier for artists of all stature to make an income. It has sort of leveled the playing field for all. This is a good thing. I will say there has been a tremendous positive impact over the years.
Upper: How do you approach marketing or promoting your music?
Air Jazzi: I approach it with intentionality.
Upper: What legacy do you hope to leave through your music?
Air Jazzi: I hope to be remembered as one of the greatest to ever do it.
Upper: Finally, What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?
Air Jazzi: Keep your head in the game at all times.
