INTerview: VECTOR
Olanrewaju Ogunmefun, better known by his stage name Vector, is a Nigerian rapper, singer and songwriter. Over his vast career, he’s seen so much success, from being celebrated at the Headies, to collaborations with artists such as Davido and Bella Shmurda.
Tirade World caught up with him on his recent trip to London to discuss his career, the state of Nigerian politics and the rise of African music within the mainstream plus what’s next for the artist.
Interview by Portia brajkovic
Hey Vector, how are you? I’m blessed thanks for asking.
First up, why music? Because music feels good even when it’s about things that don’t feel so good.
Can you describe the Vector universe and sound in three words? Magnitude and direction…
You’ve been hustling for a while and have seen so much success, from being celebrated at the Headies, to collaborations with artists such as Davido and Bella Shmurda, and so on. How would you describe your legacy so far, and what is the importance of legacy to you?
“I may (for now) describe my legacy as The boy from the barracks who beat the odds with his music journey countless times… The importance of legacy may be evident in the “ look back “ moments about the individual.”
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Which Vector track or project is most important to you?
I don’t have a particular “ most important “ project or track but in line with my initial answer on “ why music “, my last album titled “ Teslim “ is named after my late dad who holds a special place. .
Your list of collaborators is long and impressive - why is working with other artists important to you? What does it bring to your music?
Working with other artists enriches the already rich music some more… ( guess the answer works for both questions )
What excites you about the Nigerian music scene? The dynamic array of talents.
Where do you think it’s lacking? Proper intellectual property protection ( for one ).
Currently, the industry is embracing African artists on a large scale - Tems, Tyla, Burna Boy spring to mind. How does it feel to see audience tastes changing and embracing these musicians and their sounds?
It’s a good thing to experience; let the Africans winning win more and let more win again.
Your music doesn’t shy away from difficult topics like the political state of Nigeria and the world more broadly - why is it important to you to engage with these issues? What role do artists play in shedding light on the realities of life and the world around us?
It is important to engage issues for me because the said issues also affect me one way or the other … as for the role artists play, shedding light on realities of life around the world and us, it is an inevitable role if life / living is what inspires art.
Inspiration is sometimes sought out, and other times, completely unintentional. What inspires you?
Life… every experience in life.
What do you do for peace? (what do you do in your downtime/to reset and recharge)
I barely engage in anything that obstructs my calm, however, I'd play some video games( retro and new ), hang out with family and close friends so I’m usually at peace.
What’s next for you?
The bigger stages!
FOLLOW VECTOR
INSTAGRAM | LATEST MUSIC
TEAM CREDITS
Photographer: Myles Suave
Creative Direction & Styling: Nina Baric
Special Thanks to Rich London & True Religion
Song Produced by @Yogicbeats