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‘For me, music is life’ explains Komoblastic, the King of the Afro Hip-Hop genre, ‘it’s the outlet through which I can truly express myself’, and upon hearing his musical offerings, this statement rings true. The songwriter, producer, entertainer and A&R scout began his career in the early 90’s by challenging musical boundaries and his new album ‘Jungle Don Mature’ is no exception!
The artists sophomore album is 13 tracks deep with 1 bonus track and while it is a true testament of the passion that Komoblastic has for his Nigerian heritage, in the same breathe it showcases the level of freedom with which he approaches music. The level of freedom from which was birthed his genre of choice: Afro Hip-Hop. Freedom which has fused the talking drum with a hip-hop beat and lyrical content in various African tongues. Freedom which perfectly explains the eclectic choice of producers on the album, ranging from the influential Nigerian UK based Skillz a.k.a JJC produced 4 tracks ‘Caro’,’Na 2day remix’,’Bhangra party’ and ‘Nwantiti’,American talent Kayo (of Shady Blue fame) who produces on the track ‘Police Dey Come’, to up and coming Prince Digital who adds an Asian feel to the compilation with his club mix of the smash hit ‘Gbosa’.
The influence that he has exerted on the Afro Hip-Hop genre is undeniable and continues to grow. This influence manifests itself through industry recognition (‘Nwantiti’, the second single from the album was nominated for the ‘Best International Music Video’ award in 2007 at the first ever Nigerian Music Video Awards). His influence can also be noted in the way in which the popularity of ‘Na 2 Day’ (the 2000 single which can be credited for the artists unbelievable success throughout Africa ) led to its title being used as a slogan by both the young and the old. The regard for this song was not limited to West Africa but extended to the South, inspiring the South African documentary ‘On the Streets of Lagos’ which charted the rise of this genre. And today, the Nigerian born artist now residing in London intends to continue in his pioneering streak, breaking cultural barriers and stereotypes in order to give Afro Hip-Hop international acclaim.
It is no surprise therefore that when asked to name his musical influences, Komoblastic provides the following three names: Fela Kuti, Bob Marley and Dr Dre. Fela Kuti, the pioneer of Afro-Beat, noted as a political maverick and an unforgettable performer; Bob Marley, the legend who is recognised for his honest lyrical content and for giving Reggae international recognition; And Dr Dre whom Komoblastic describes as the ‘epitome of West Coast gangster rap’. Like his inspirations, Komoblastic was instrumental in the popularization of his genre, organising the first Afro Hip-Hop concert in Lagos which drew crowds of 50,000. Also like his inspirations, he offered something new to the game, as by truly embracing his roots his lyrical flow had a Nigerian twang to it, setting himself apart from his counterparts who rapped in an American accent. And true to being a pioneer, Komoblastic has never allowed the power of his music to be dwindled on account of boundaries, distinguishing himself early on in the scene by capitalizing on his knowledge of four different Nigerian dialects, often using them all in the same track in order to increase the number of people who could truly understand and enjoy his music.
is through live performance however that Komoblastic truly connects with his fans exchanging an ‘energy which is limited to this form of creative outlet’. His May 2008 performance alongside R&B legend Joe, and the recent 2008 Mix Festival in London at which he performed beside some of the UK ’s most noted Hip-Hop artists (Sway, Bashy), highlight that Komoblastic is carving his way into the UK and US market, distinguishing himself as one of the most entertaining Nigerian artists on the scene
He has the approval of the international crowds as well as Nigerian gatekeepers such as top promoters Black Knights and well renowned UK and Naija DJ’s worldwide this is set to be a defining year for both Komoblastic and the Afro Hip-Hop genre!
