Radar X, born Oyemike Achi, is a 27-year-old musician hailing from Delta State, Nigeria. Growing up, he immersed himself in a myriad of musical genres and was inspired by the likes of Fela Kuti, Michael Jackson, Burna Boy, and Miss Lauryn Hill. All these influences led to the evolution of his sound, which he has dubbed “Afro Future” – a futuristic blend of pop, boom bap, R&B, and Afrobeats folklore. Positioning himself as a strong contender, on the radar of ‘ones to watch’ lists, he is ready for a global takeover.
Kicking off this year with a single titled “Pretty Babes,” which offers a glimpse into his upcoming debut EP, Radar X sits down with iMullar to discuss his latest song, sound, creative processes and future projects.
Kudos on the recent drop of “Pretty Babes.” What emotions are running through you now that it’s officially out?
Pretty babes, that’s the keyword. Every girl out there should have this energy! It’s positive energy. More than just excitement, there’s a profound sense of fulfillment and gratitude washing over me. Seeing the reception for “Pretty Babes” fills me with a renewed sense of purpose and drive to continue creating music that resonates with people.
What do you hope listeners will take away from “Pretty Babes,” in terms of its message or the emotions it conveys?
Being pretty is not just about the physical or beauty standards; it’s more about your aura, self-acceptance, and energy! “Pretty Babes” is a campaign to empower women and make them appreciate themselves more. Because they’re queens! Moreover, I hope “Pretty Babes” reminds me that beauty transcends societal standards and conventions, embracing the essence of self-love and empowerment. Through its message of authenticity and resilience, I aspire for listeners to find strength and inspiration in their journeys towards self-discovery and acceptance.
Reflecting on your musical journey, how has your sound evolved since you first began?
It’s been a journey. I’ve always been versatile and unpredictable with my sound, but I can tell it’s more defined now. I’m in my X factor! Moreover, my sound has a sense of maturation and refinement that comes from years of experimentation and growth. Each project, including “Pretty Babes,” marks a milestone in this evolution, showcasing a deeper understanding of my artistic identity and a more polished execution of my vision.
Comparing “Pretty Babes” to your previous work, what distinctive elements or progressions can listeners expect to experience?
“Pretty Babes” allowed me to express my creativity in different forms. [From] the flow to the beat,my delivery, the campaign message, the community-based narrative, and how it translates to me as a character. Building upon the foundation laid by my previous work, “Pretty Babes” introduces listeners to a more refined sonic palette, enriched with intricate layers of production and storytelling that invite them into a world where music becomes a vessel for empowerment and self-expression.
Considering the current music landscape, where do you see your music carving its niche or making a unique contribution?
I’m all about innovation and invention. I was born to create a universe where music is more immersive and can reflect on every other form of art and even people’s daily lives. So I see my music creating a niche that transcends beyond just the sound. With “Pretty Babes” and future projects, I aim to carve out a space where creativity knows no bounds, where music becomes a catalyst for social change and personal transformation.
Artistic inspiration plays a crucial role in shaping one’s craft. Who would you say are the most significant influences on your creative expression?
Honestly, when it comes to influences, I’m really big on frequencies. I listen to frequencies to keep my mind creative! And I connect to random people and try to feel what they feel! It allows me to escape through different realities, and that way, I can tap into different aspects of my creative vibe. But yeah, I draw inspiration from a diverse array of artists across various disciplines, from visual arts to literature, allowing their works to inform and enrich my creative process.
If you could engage in a collaboration with any Nigerian artist, who would be your dream collaborator, and what draws you to their work?
Easy! Burna Boy, because the music would be very experimental and new. He’s also a fusion artist and loves to experiment. That’s one thing I find [we have] in common. Collaborating with Burna Boy would not only be an incredible opportunity to push the boundaries of musical expression but also a chance to learn from one of the most innovative voices in the industry.
Music is undoubtedly your passion, but if you weren’t pursuing a career in the industry, what profession could you envision yourself thriving in?
I’d be a movie director. I have more than just a passion for music, I have a deep love for storytelling in all its forms.
Looking ahead, what new directions or genres are you eager to explore in your future projects?
I’m multilayered when it comes to genre. I always create a new vibe. So it might not be from a popular genre, it would just be a new vibe, so I don’t use the word genre. Moving forward, I’m excited to delve deeper into this concept of “vibe,” exploring new sonic territories and pushing the boundaries of musical expression. Whether it is through genre-blurring collaborations or experimental production techniques, I aim to continue evolving as an artist, constantly challenging myself to redefine what music means and what it can achieve.
