Source: Daily Post
In a recent podcast interview, Nigerian rapper OdumoduBlvck opened up about his approach to hip-hop and why he chooses to cater to a wider audience with his music.
According to OdumoduBlvck, while he possesses the skills to deliver core hip-hop similar to American rap icon Eminem, he opts for a different style because he believes Nigerians have a preference for melodic music over traditional rap.
Explaining his decision to adapt his style for commercial success, OdumoduBlvck stated, "Nigerians only listen to melodic music so I 'dumbed it down' so my records will be commercially successful." He elaborated on how he aims to make Nigerian rap more accessible and exciting, drawing inspiration from artists like Wizkid who transformed R&B in the country.
Acknowledging critiques about his rap style being perceived as simplistic, OdumoduBlvck emphasized his intention to create music that resonates with listeners instantly. He remarked, "People said my rap sounds like nursery school rhymes. I dumbed it down so I can sell these records, so you don’t have to think twice."
Contrary to delivering hardcore rap, OdumoduBlvck prioritizes crafting rap that is easy to digest and enjoyable for his audience. He emphasized, "When you listen to my rap, if you understand the lingo you get it once. You don’t have to go to any dictionary. It’s not hardcore rap. It’s easy. I’ve made it exciting."
Drawing parallels to the success of Wizkid in revolutionizing R&B music in Nigeria, OdumoduBlvck expressed his aspiration to bring a similar level of innovation and excitement to the rap genre. He shared, "Just like Wizkid, I want to make my rap sweet and exciting."
Despite possessing the ability to rap at a level comparable to Eminem and other renowned artists, OdumoduBlvck recognizes the importance of catering to his local audience's preferences. He highlighted the cultural context, stating, "I can rap like Eminem and all these guys but bro where I come from nobody is gonna listen to that stuff. They don’t understand it."
In essence, OdumoduBlvck's approach to hip-hop reflects a blend of talent, market awareness, and a desire to connect with his audience on a level that resonates with their musical tastes and cultural background. Through his music, he seeks to bridge the gap between traditional rap styles and the preferences of Nigerian listeners, ultimately aiming to create impactful and commercially successful records.
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