Spellz is a music producer of repute and has produced some of the biggest Nigerian hits with the likes of Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, Chuddy K, 9ice, Banky W., D’Prince, Davido, Dammy Krane. His production hits include “Malo” by Tiwa Savage, “Gaga Crazy” by Chuddy K, “My Dear” by Dammy Krane, “Check and Balance” by Burna Boy, “Mummy Mi” by Wizkid, “How Long” by Davido… among others.
Spellz speaks on why artistes find it difficult to live scandal free, his recent projects, among other issues.
What is the latest on your musical career?
As you know afrobeat is breaking new records and bringing together people from different culture. I’m directing my energy on developing, producing and promoting new artistes.
Who are some of these new artistes?
Presently I’m developing artists like Kemuel (Who recently had a song with Dj Spinall and Olamide called Bunda) also I have this amazing young artist called Laime. The goal is longevity for me.
Tell us your experience working with these new artistes.
Well you have to realise every artist is unique in their own way but what I admire is their hunger, dedication and ability to try new sounds.
You were once with Sony Music. What is the latest?
I’m no longer with Sony Publishing.
When and why did you leave Sony Music?
I left SonyAtv Publishing at the expiration of my contract with them, I’ve moved on to a different company.
As a music producer who grew up in Lagos, tell us some of your fond memories.
I did say growing up in multicultural city like Lagos is completely different from other places one might have grew up. Learning to speak Pidgin, Yoruba and at least one more language apart from English was important but one of my fondest memories was visiting the new Afrika shrine listening to Femi Kuti and the Positive force play.
You have worked with so many great artistes, who would you describe as the best you ever worked with?
Every artist is unique in its own way and I don’t feel there’s a “Greatest Artist” out there because, art is relative in my opinion. Maybe if you asked me of my favourite famous artist, I might have a couple of them. Personally working with Wizkid and Flavour was awesome. They are one of the most Professional artists I enjoy working with.
Spellz is a household name when it comes to music production. You have worked with so many great artistes no doubt about that but, who is that artiste that you would have loved to work with at the moment?
You know me, I love afrobeat and the sound coming out of afrobeat is vibes, Omah Lay is one in my books to work with this year, also Rema because I like an artist who possesses a unique sound.
There are lots of great producers out there like you are. Whose creativity do you still marvel at?
I always look forward to productions from LegenduryBeats, Dj Coublon, Andre Vibez.
Unlike most artistes, majority of music producers are scandal free. what is the secret?
Smiles! Omo like they say “A private life Is a happy life” .It’s difficult to be scandal free when you’re out there on a daily meeting with different people who come with different intentions. I believe artists get into scandals from good intentions, there’s so much expectations from them that we forget they’re human beings with emotions.
Your marriage is clearly isolated from your career, do you think this has made you leave a scandal free life?
I’m married to the most amazing woman I ever met. However, I do not believe marriage can make one lead a scandal free life, I’d say self discipline helps and knowing what you want for your life and career.
You are married to a very lovable woman and blessed with a wonderful son, what would you say is the greatest lesson marriage has taught you?
Patience and empathy.
Tell us about your most embarrassing experience so far.
I’m naturally a shy and reserved person.
If you are not a music producer, what do you see yourself doing?
Music is my passion, however investment into other businesses as my time and resources can manage is an option but, I can’t see myself not making music.
Any regrets?
I’ve been blessed by a special gift and I intend to continue using it change lives. I don’t have any regrets.