Nigeria’s music scene is about to experience another wave of talent as Promise Chibuike Nwabueze, popularly known as Pryme, has just released his latest single, ‘Gbera,’ this Friday.
The track, produced by the talented Xtofa and featuring the dynamic Bella Shmurda, signifies Pryme’s triumphant return after his chart-topping hit, ‘Lavida,’ and his recent signing with G Worldwide Entertainment.
We discussed his career, life, his music and future in this exclusive interview
Q: How would you describe your sound/music style?
A: I call my style of music “afro soul” because it embodies both afrobeat and soul music.
Q: How did your foray into music happen?
A: My foray into music started in university when I won a music competition. That moment changed my life. The DJ of the event, DJ Billz, who later became a friend, told me I had potential and needed to take it to the next level. With his support, I moved forward and made my way to the island in Lagos. There, I started working with “nu comrades music,” which was managed by DJ Chibinho. That’s when things really kicked off for me.
Q: When did you start making music professionally and what have you learned along the way?
A: I started making music professionally in 2017 and have learned a lot since then. I’ve gained knowledge about music creation and the business side of things. I’ve learned how to navigate the music industry and create more enjoyable music for my global audience. Additionally, I’ve explored other segments of the music business and learned how the art can generate good income.
Q: How did your recent signing with G-Worldwide come about?
A: While Kizz Daniel was working on his last album “Maverick”, he called me one day to discuss the possibility of signing me. Later, he called again and, to my greatest surprise, connected me to a three-way call with Emperor Geezy, who confirmed the signing. We immediately began reviewing the contract terms. I was thrilled but also prepared, embracing this great opportunity. Big shoutout to my new family at G-Worldwide.
Q: So we’re curious, how would you describe your relationship with your boss ‘Kizz Daniel’ and what is the contract agreement between him and G-Worldwide. Is it a partnership?
A: I would describe my relationship with Kizz Daniel as a family-like, big-brother-little-brother dynamic. He’s a really talented and great person. The contract agreement is a partnership with G-Worldwide taking the lead.
Q: Could you share the artists you’ve collaborated with as a writer, with whom you felt a magical synergy in your work together?
A: As a writer, I’ve collaborated with artists like Iyanya, Davido, Diamond, and Shatta Wale. They all bring different positive energies. Working with Iyanya was really cool, and I also felt a good synergy with Davido during our collaboration. Now, we’re all really good friends.
Q: Your single ‘Lavida’ was a hit upon release last year, how has its success impacted your career?
A: Yes, it was, and I thank God for that. “Lavida” has given me a lot of recognition, with more and more people discovering the song every day. That’s great because more hits are on the way.
Q: You just dropped your collaboration with Bella Shmurda ‘Gbera’, how did that record and collaboration come to be?
A: Collaborating with Bella on the new song “Gbera” is a big deal. We reached out to him, and he loved the song, laying down his verse before I even linked up with him for the session. He encouraged me and told me I’m almost there. He’s a really great guy.
Q: How do you deal with criticisms that stem from you being in the industry for a while but just recently getting your breakthrough?
A: I handle criticisms in the best way possible by ignoring them. People will always have something to say, whether you’re doing well or not, so it’s best to ignore them.
Q: Who are some artists you would love to collaborate with in the future?
A: Artists I would like to collaborate with in the future include Tems, Burna Boy, Rema, Wizkid, Chris Brown, and Drake.
Q: What can fans expect from you in the future both musically and creatively?
A: Expect more bangers, more collaborations, and lots of good stuff coming your way. Just stay with me!
With ‘Gbera,’ Pryme not only aims to build an impressive discography but also solidify his place in the Nigerian music scene.
Pryme’s musical journey extends far beyond his own releases. His influence spans across the industry, with significant contributions as a songwriter and co-writer on major hits like ‘One Side’ by Iyanya and ‘Away’ by Davido, among others.
His highly anticipated collaboration with Bella Shmurda “Gbera” is available to stream on all platforms.