Nigerian born singer-songwriter WurlD’s latest single FREE is gradually making waves on radio stations. The multi-genre creative, who recently celebrated his 36th birthday, said the song was born from a rough patch of his life and is a sound of healing.
WurlD, real name Sadiq Onifade, started his career predominantly as a songwriter for heavyweight artists such as Akon, Mario, BOB, Trinidad James and also co-wrote Davido’s 2019 hit single Blow My Mind featuring Chris Brown. Stepping into the forefront of music saw him release two EPs, with his second Love is Contagious released in 2019.
Tell us about the birth of your FREE
I was going through a very rough time with my mental wellness and I remember going through tracks I had received a few months back from my guys, Major League DJz. I heard the draft of the instrumental and it really sounded perfect with the way I was feeling. The melodies/lyrics followed effortlessly. It just felt right. The last piece of the song was my vocals. I turned into a lead instrument I call “Sound for Healing”.
Why do you think it’s important for artists, like yourself, to be vocal about mental health?
I think it’s something we all go through at different stages of our lives in different ways, but we don’t talk about it enough. I felt the need to share my story through the song “Free (Sounds For Healing)” because I knew I wasn’t alone in my battle for mental wellness. I only hope that this inspires someone out there to keep fighting to be their best version, with a free healthy mindset.
Would you consider yourself a mental health activist?
The word ‘activist’ sounds heavy. I would say I understand the importance of mental wellness and I’m dedicated to using my voice to share my perspective and hope to help someone out there.
Your recent project, ‘My WorlD With U’, is a very solid body of work. Can we expect another body of work from you in this creative direction?
Absolutely!! I’m taking my time once again on the next body of work. I’m currently living and experiencing new things to talk about. The next project will be the best one yet.
Your single ‘Something To Lose’ is definitely food for thought. What advice can you give to up and coming artists who are trying to navigate the space of fame and new found attention from fans and potential lovers?
My only advice for them is to be selective of the people they keep close. Energy is contagious and they should strive to keep the positive ones closer.
What’s currently on your music playlist?
I listen to a lot of hip hop. I’m currently listening to Drake and 21 Savage ‘Her Loss’ and a lot of classic records from Kanye, Travis Scott to name a few.
What are you reading?
I’m currently reading ‘Breaking the habit of being yourself’
If you had one wish for Africa what would it be?
My one wish for Africa would be for Africans to be more united as one and be more supportive towards each other.
What’s next for WurlD?
The next thing for me is sharing more love with my art through more collaborations and giving back to the community.
Connect with WurlD
Instagram = @thisiswurld
Facebook = @thisiswurld
Twitter = @thisisWurlD
