Fast-rising Nigerian singer and songwriter, Ebenezer Olaolu Mabinuori, popularly known as Ebonny Musik, has revealed how Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti and global music star Wizkid played major roles in shaping his music career.
In a recent interview, Ebonny Musik said Fela’s bold messages and unique sound helped him understand the power of music as a tool for expression and change. “Fela taught me that music is not just about entertainment,” he said. “It can be used to tell stories, speak truth to power, and unite people. His courage and creativity continue to inspire me.”
The Afro-urban artiste also praised Wizkid for showing young Nigerian musicians that it is possible to take African music to the world stage. “Wizkid’s success gave me hope,” Ebonny said. “He made us believe that Nigerian music can compete anywhere in the world. His journey showed that with hard work and originality, we can all go global.”
Born in Lagos and originally from Abeokuta, Ogun State, Ebonny Musik grew up surrounded by different sounds—from Highlife and Fuji to modern Afrobeats. He said those early influences helped him create his unique Afro-urban sound, which blends African rhythms with urban music styles.
Ebonny Musik has worked with some of Nigeria’s top producers, including Grammy-nominated Phazehop, D’Tunes, and Indomix, as well as Christian Jude, a UK-based producer. His songs such as “Whine 4 Me,” “Good Days Bad Days,” and “One Life” have continued to attract attention both in Nigeria and abroad.
Now dividing his time between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, Ebonny Musik says his dream is to use his music to connect cultures and bring people together. “I want my songs to inspire and make people happy, whether they’re in Lagos, London, or anywhere in the world,” he said.
With his growing fan base and a sound that bridges Africa and the world, Ebonny Musik is fast becoming one of the new voices redefining Nigeria’s music story.
