Velina Magazine proudly presents a special feature on Supa, a rising star in the world of music production and artistry. Known for his innovative sound that bridges nostalgia with modern creativity, Supa shares his journey, upcoming projects, and his vision for African music on the global stage.
Early Life and Influences
Supa reflects warmly on his upbringing as one of eight children, growing up in Upper Sakponoba, Benin City, Nigeria. “I’m the second-to-last child, and my childhood was filled with joy,” he says. His neighborhood, famous for fostering young talent, played a pivotal role in shaping his musical path. Supa fondly recalls the impact of the local TV show “Beat and Laugh”, which aired every Saturday on EBS TV. “Watching talented youths perform on that show inspired me and nurtured my passion for music,” he shares.
From Aspiring Artist to Accomplished Producer
Supa’s journey into music production began out of a desire for creative independence. “I recorded my first song in a studio, but I wasn’t satisfied with the result. When the producer refused to make changes without additional payment, I decided to take matters into my own hands,” he explains. This turning point ignited his passion for music production, enabling him to craft his unique sound and produce music that truly represents his vision.
Making Global Waves
With plans to release his debut album in 2025, Supa is already making a global impact. “My singles have received incredible feedback from fans worldwide, and it’s encouraging me to move forward with my album,” he says. Supa’s sound draws inspiration from a fusion of old-school music and contemporary genres, creating a style that resonates across generations.
One of his standout achievements includes collaborating with Grammy-nominated producer Emile Ghantous. The partnership began after Ghantous heard Supa’s verse on a featured song and reached out to work together. Their collaboration led to co-writing the song “Handle with Care” for Desiree, an artist under the prominent label Now United. “Working with Emile has been a tremendous learning experience, especially in understanding the business side of music,” Supa notes.
The Dubai Connection
Supa credits Dubai as a significant influence on his career. “Dubai is a melting pot of cultures and opportunities. It has allowed me to connect with artists from around the world, exchange ideas, and grow as a musician,” he shares. Supa also played a key role as a sound engineer during the UAE National Day, further solidifying his connection to the region.
Upcoming Projects and Collaborations
Excitement surrounds Supa’s upcoming single and music video, set to release on December 15th, 2024, across all digital platforms. He has worked with a host of notable artists, including Nigerian stars Wande Cole, Masterkraft, and Naira Marley, and international talents like Ntosh Gazi from South Africa, Lana Rose from Dubai, and Wido Prince, also based in Dubai.
Advice for Aspiring Creators
Supa’s advice to emerging producers and artists in Africa is simple but profound: “Stay true to your dreams, believe in your abilities, and remain humble. Always be open to learning and embrace new ideas.”
Challenges and Opportunities for African Music
Supa believes Afrobeat has solidified its place in the global music industry, but he sees room for improvement. “Africa needs its own digital streaming platforms to empower its artists and fully realize the potential of its music market,” he explains.
A Grateful Heart
As he reflects on his journey, Supa expresses gratitude for the support of his global fan base. “Seeing millions of views on my songs and collaborations inspires me to keep chasing my dreams and stay focused on my career,” he shares.
Supa’s unwavering passion, coupled with his relentless drive and unique talent, ensures that his star will continue to rise in the global music scene. Velina Magazine is honored to share his story and looks forward to witnessing his future success.
