It doesn’t take a long time for WurlD to make an impression on you. He’s calm yet eccentric, his presence commands attention when he walks into a room and, most obviously, he has the aura of an internationally acclaimed musician.
The 33-year old star was born and bred in Lagos, Nigeria but life had intentions for him beyond the continent’s borders. He soon found himself living and work out of Atlanta, Georgia – one of urban music’s most important cities in the USA.
The bold and ambitious move paid off and for the last seven years, WurlD has delivered some of the biggest hits to grace African charts in recent years including 2019’s MAD and 2016’s Show you Off a collaboration with Major Lazer’s Walshy Fire.
WurlD recently spoke to Moziak Magazine for a 5 minute conversation about his exciting career so far, his music along with his creative approach to making art and music.
Moziak Magazine: You’ve been described as “Africa’s newest breakout star”. All eyes are on you! For those that are only now discovering you, how would you describe yourself?
WurlD: I’ll say I’m Consistent and Patient .
MM: Your most recently released single is titled “Love Nobody” the first single off your upcoming AFROSOUL EP. Tell us more about this release and this upcoming 7-track project.
WurlD: “Love Nobody” is the first release off the 7 track project. I wanted to share something upbeat with the world in these crazy times. The song focuses on the idea of commitment between two people in a edgy/wild sexual relationship
MM: Some of the greatest musicians in the world started out writing songs for other people. You’ve written songs for some of the biggest names in the game. Did you always know you wanted to be in front of the mic, or this transition happened gradually?
WurlD: I’ve always wanted to be in front of the mic since I was a kid. Songwriting came along the way while I was living in ATL, and it has helped a great deal with my music today .
MM: You co-wrote one of the biggest songs of 2019, “Blow My Mind” by Davido featuring Chris Brown. What was that process like?
WurlD: I wrote “Blow My mind” in late 2017 and Davido later re-recorded it 2019 feat. Chris Brown. It was great to see it come to light different than I originally planned.
MM: 2019 also saw you release a critically acclaimed collaborative project ‘ILGWT’ (I Love Girls with Trobul) with award-winning Nigerian producer Sarz. What has this particular project done for your career?
WurlD: I believe this project has help me connect closer to the African audience both home and abroad. I’m forever grateful and looking forward to sharing more soon.
MM: You’ve just released a new track with the accompanying music video for Love Nobody. What went into the making of this song?
WurlD: The goal was to combine relatable lyrics with high energy/upbeat instrumentals. Also, using vocals “Humming” as instruments to keep the vibe fluid through out the song
MM: We have to ask… How did you get the stage name WurlD?
WurlD: The first set of songs I created many years ago had a worldly feel to them. This was the Constant feedback I got from close friends and the name “WurlD” stuck with me. Initially spelt “WorlD” but I later changed it for easy Search on the web
MM: What’s next?
WurlD: More music, videos and experimental projects and albums. I’ll be also on tour soon as the WurlD is safe again 🦋