There is Nobody like Zaza, indeed. If you have been in the industry long enough, anyone can tell you that nobody approaches music and artistry like L.A.X does. An artist with such longevity as himself, he has seen multiple eras of music in the African scene. He has maintained relevancy by constantly redefining his music by incorporating the core African sound with elements of every arising new sound. Through the years, he puts himself to the test, adapts, and comes up with creative ways to make his artistry shine in the ever-evolving and saturated music industry. LAX with his “ZaZa Vibes” in 2020, which boasts of songs such as “Go Low”, and “Sempe”, cemented himself as one of the best hitmakers in the Nigerian music scene.
He tailors all his content to his music. Whether he’s touring, releasing viral videos, or speaking in interviews, the core of it all is his music, and for someone who takes his craft seriously, he does it great as well. From “Rasaking” to “No Bad Vibes”, he has made it a point to always leave his audiences in awe, showcasing different facets of creativity. No album sounds the same as he is constantly evolving. In the lead-up to his album, he released “Loke”, which featured Majesticks, one of the best producers currently. As someone who shines on Amapiano-themed records, his synergy with Magicsticks on “Loke” was very sonically pleasing. He also performed “Lockdown”, a sensational Afro R&B track on Colors Studios, becoming one of the very few Nigerian artists to grace that platform. With these incredible records serving as the teasers on the album, we got a taste of the sound and direction of his new album.
On this new album, L.A.X is on a mission, a journey you can say, to forge a new path in the Afrobeat scene. His versatility is showcased effortlessly on “Nobody Like Zaza”, on which he creates potentially timeless records while experimenting with different sounds and genres. With records like “MVP”, “Let Me Know” and “Dr. Love”, listeners and fans are spoiled for choice.
Nobody does it like Zaza, Nobody has done it like Zaza, and indeed Nobody will do it like Zaza. This new album is a testament to his journey, hard work, work ethic, and determination to be one of the biggest pillars in the Afrobeats scene on the global stage. In a conversation for iMullar, he talks about his evolution, and his artistry in his new album.
You are an amazing genre bending fusing multiple elements in your music. What inspires you to fuse different genres and how do you decide which ones to experiment next?
I love all kinds of music, and I truly enjoy experimenting with different sounds. I don’t like being put in a box, so blending genres is always an exciting process for me.
You’ve been able to balance education with a thriving music career. With a Masters Degree in Innovation Management, how has academic acumen shaped your approach to the music industry?
Education has always been important to me. Balancing music and school was a unique experience that helped me stay grounded. It’s also kept me open to learning—even within the music space.
You’ve certainly evolved in your artistry and sound since your debut album in 2018?
My sound has evolved a lot, and I’m really proud of the growth I’ve experienced as an artist.
Your last album was in 2023, “No Bad Vibes”. Two years removed, you’re about to release another album, what was the creative process and your state of mind going into this new album?
I’ve been in a really good space these last two years, surrounded by great people, from family and friends to an amazing team. Going into this project, my goal was simply to pour my heart out and express how happy and in love I’ve been.
What was the most challenging part of creating this album and what was your favorite moment throughout the process of making the album?
Creating this album was seamless. There was no downtime or pressure, I just let it flow. I got to work with some of the best writers, producers, and artists, and my favorite moments were definitely those spent in the studio creating.
Your new album boasts of an impressive lineup. What inspired such a diverse group of collaborators?
The collaborations on this album weren’t even planned. Honestly, I’d say God was working overtime on that part, lol.
What does this new album represent to you in this chapter of your career and how does it differ from the vibes you brought with “No Bad Vibes” and “Zaza Vibes”?
This album means so much to me, it’s without a doubt my best work yet. The sound and the energy have both elevated.
You’ve curated a 13-song album with “Lockdown”, “Loke” and “MVP” as singles. How did you decide which songs made the final cut, and what story do you want to tell from the first song to the last?
Picking the final tracklist was tough, we had over 60 songs to choose from. In the end, my team and I chose the strongest tracks that best represented the theme and vibe of the album.
You’ve worked with Magicsticks along with other heavyweight producers on this album. How did their production style influence the sound of this album?
I got to work with a wide range of producers on this project, including some I hadn’t collaborated with before. The process was enjoyable and refreshing.
Afrobeats is going through a global resurgence and you’ve been part of the moment for over a decade. How does “Nobody Like Zaza” push the genre forward and reflect where it’s at in 2025?
I’m truly grateful for the grace God has given me. The fact that I’m still part of the conversation is a blessing. I’ve always aimed to create timeless music, and with this album, the goal is the same. I want us to look back at 2025 in 20 years and agree that this project was one of the best. Lifetime relevance is the mission.
Just like “Sempe”, “Go Low” and “Zaza”, which of the solo unreleased tracks on this album do you want people to really look forward to?
Every song on this project is special to me. I want listeners to experience the entire album because the vibe is unique, and each track holds a deeper meaning beyond just the music.
You’ve built Rasaki Music into a company that suits your vision. How did running your own label shape the making and rollout for this album?
Rasaki Music has always been my personal passion, a company that means a lot to me. I’ve partnered with Empire for my last three projects, and it’s been a great journey. We’ve taken the same approach for this album rollout: doing everything the best way we can. I’m proud of the work we’ve put in, and with God, it’s only up from here.
What’s next for L.A.X after the release of this album? What’s the bigger dream you’re chasing with this release?
After this project drops, I definitely need a break, a vacation, lol. But seriously, I’m dedicating this year to my fans. Most of what I do in 2025 will be about fan activations and giving back to the people who’ve supported me through the years.
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