For our first cover story, Amexin opens up about his relationship with DJ Tunez, future collaboration with Wizkid and his love for his hometown, Aba.
Shortly after our meeting over Zoom for this interview, the rising star thrilled fans at his first headline show “The Amexin Special” held in Lagos.
Hi Amexin, how you doing?
I’m fine, thank you how’re you?
I dey, what are you up to?
Well, It’s weekend so my plate of hot eba is waiting for me. Today I’m having it with one of my favourite soups, okro. My friends like it too.
Nice. Eba and okro soup is definitely goated. Where are you from, though.
I’m from Aba in Abia State and I owe a lot to my hometown. Growing up there had such a positive impact on my music. Only best the best songs make it to the city and that helps you as an artist.
Cool. What inspired your stage name?
I just want to put a face to the word “amazing” basically be the image that pops up in people’s minds when they hear the word. I want to be amazing.
You and DJ Tunez seem to have such a great relationship. How did you two meet?
The love of music brought us together. He fell in love with my music after hearing some of my unreleased songs from someone else in the industry. He reached out to me and we connected.
What’s like working with him?
It’s been an amazing experience. DJ Tunez os very supportive. He’s someone who always wants to take care of you. He’ll call me up and be like “How’re you?” “Call me if you need anything”
It’s been great.
What’s next for you two?
I’m dropping a new single and I have a show coming up in December, The Amazing Special. It’s my first headline show so I’m excited.
Okay, I have to ask: since you’re so close to DJ Tunez, have you met Wizkid?
Yes.
Really? What was it like?
Superstar Wiz. At first I was nervous but I quickly realized that he’s such a cool, relaxed person.
Omg! Any collaborations coming?
Definitely. Watch out.
Great. So what other things do you like apart from eba and what do you do to relax?
Music. Music. Music.
In fact, I wish I could have music as food. If I could I would hire someone just to make playlists depending on the mood, the weather and the time of the day.
But since I can’t replace music with food, I also like to eat noodles.
Me too. Do you add crayfish to your noodles? Because there’s been a fierce debate about it on Twitter.
I do
Great!
I grind it but I also like to have tiny pieces that I can chew while eating.
Oh my God! Yes!
I also add a lot of fresh peppers
Yes! You’re so amazing. I like you.
Thank you
You’re welcome. So how long have you been in Lagos.
A little over a year now.
What do you think of the city?
Very expensive. Unlike Aba, but it’s a wonderful place.
You’re right. So what are your dream collaborations, apart from Wizkid?
It’s hard to choose because there are a lot of artists that I admire. But I just want to work with people who love my music and people that I also connect with.
Chris Brown, for example. I love him
What impact would you like to have on the Nigerian music industry?
I just want to connect to the fans, the ones who love and support my music. Like you Chioma, I know you love my music.
I do
Great! That makes me happy.
Final word to your fans
I love you all. I promise to keep dropping hot gbedu and bangers. Just for you. I appreciate your support. Believe in yourself and have faith in God
Top three venues you’d like to perform at
I’ve never really thought about it but Rolling Loud, Something in the Water and the O2 Arena
Thank you so much for talking to me and Goodluck with everything.
Thank you for having me and have a nice weekend.
You too.
Check out Amexin’s new project, “The Amexin EP” here