On this uncooked and revealing interview, Cruz speaks for the primary time about:
• Why he’s not apprehensive about Google exhibiting Ted Cruz earlier than him
• The grind of selling music and not using a funds
• And why the title King of Vibe isn’t simply hype — it’s a prophecy.
Prepare to fulfill the Cruz that the various search engines haven’t caught up with but.
“Cruz” is such a daring stage identify. Had been you ever apprehensive concerning the comparability with Tom Cruise or different well-known Cruzes? How do you make the identify yours?
Truthfully, I’ve by no means apprehensive about being mistaken for Tom Cruise or Ted Cruz. They don’t make music — they don’t even function on this lane. I’m not in competitors with them. Proper now, they present up on Google first, however that doesn’t scare me. That is only the start of my story. With consistency, progress, and visibility, that narrative will shift. “Cruz” is mine — not theirs — and shortly, everybody looking out that identify will land on me, the African King of Vibes.
You’ve known as your self the King of Vibe — what does that really imply to you, and do you assume Nigerian music has house for an actual ‘vibe king’ proper now?
King of Vibe isn’t only a tagline for me — it’s an identification. My sound hits totally different. My power is genuine. Wherever I am going, I carry that vibe, even once I’m not singing. And sure, there’s house — a giant one. Nigeria has its huge three, however the stage is huge sufficient for extra crowns. The true factor is being ready. So when my time comes totally, I’ll be prepared to hold that title and increase the sound past traits.
You began in 2020 with Time 4 Cash that includes Yovi, after which went quiet. What actually occurred behind the scenes throughout that lengthy break?
The reality? Hustle occurred. I had no funds. I used to be pushing Time 4 Cash from inside the home, all alone. It acquired to a degree the place I needed to decide between selling music or consuming. So I went again to the grind. I by no means stopped recording although — I stayed writing, evolving, ready for a shot. It was laborious, however needed. Right this moment, I see that silence because the coaching floor for who I’ve change into.
Numerous Lagos-based artists look down on expertise from the East. Has being an Imo State-based artist affected your rise within the trade — positively or negatively?
Right here’s the factor — I used to be born and raised in Lagos (Okoko, Maiko, Ojo), however my music journey began at school, in Imo State. My mother made positive we by no means misplaced our roots. Each December, we went again to the East. That connection gave me vary — I can circulation in Yoruba, Igbo, pidgin, something. However sure, I’ve felt the imbalance within the trade. Lagos gatekeeps so much. However that is my first official Lagos push, and I consider strongly that the tide is about to shift in my favor.
Let’s discuss “Afropiano.” That’s a phrase you’ve used to explain your sound. Is it simply branding, or are you actually creating a brand new subgenre of Nigerian music?
It’s actual. Afropiano exists, however only a few artists are actually pushing it with which means. I’m not simply mixing Afrobeat and Amapiano for vibe’s sake — I’m constructing a sound that carries weight. It’s bounce + emotion + storytelling. I’m not making an attempt to sound like everybody. I’m right here to face out, and Afropiano is my anchor.
“Gum Physique” and “Good Conduct” are very totally different in tone. Are you continue to experimenting along with your sound, or have you ever discovered your signature?
It’s not experimentation — it’s versatility. I need to present those that I’m not a one-trick artist. “Gum Physique” was love and groove. “Good Conduct” was extra acutely aware. KOV is the complete vibe. I can rap, I can sing, I can glide on blues, avenue beats, hip-hop, home — something. I would like followers to count on vary from me, not repetition.
Let’s be actual: the music trade is filled with hype and faux love. Have you ever skilled betrayal or backstabbing within the sport but?
Not but, and hopefully by no means. However I’m conscious of how the sport works. For now, my circle is tight — we transfer like household. My staff isn’t simply enterprise; they’re brothers. We have now values, and we appropriate ourselves when wanted. If betrayal ever occurs, we’ll deal with it like males — no loud drama, simply correction and ahead motion.
Do you write your individual songs? And if sure, which lyrics are you most happy with — and why?
Sure, each single line. I consider in proudly owning my artwork. Once I write, I’m extra related to the beat and to the message. My lyrics come from expertise. As for my favourite? I can’t select. It’s like having 5 children and choosing your greatest. Every tune is tied to a second in my life. So I really like all of them equally. All of them inform elements of my story.
Your music feels very vibe-heavy — however what’s the message beneath the vibe? What are you making an attempt to inform younger Nigerians?
I’m saying: Chop life, however maintain your head. Get pleasure from when you’re right here — no one is aware of tomorrow. However do it on good conduct. You don’t have to ball in Lekki earlier than you’re feeling good. Have a good time what you could have, the place you might be. Whether or not you’re within the trenches or uptown, simply keep grounded. That’s what Good Conduct stands for. My songs have a message, even once they make you dance.
If somebody Googles “Cruz” right now, Tom Cruise or Ted Cruz exhibits up. What do you need to present up as a substitute, 5 months from now?
What’s one private wrestle you’ve confronted lately that the majority followers don’t learn about — and the way did it form your music?
Who’re your high 3 dream collaborations — one from Nigeria, one from Africa, and one world?
I received’t lie — that is from the guts, not technique.
Nigeria: Niniola — her vocals and power are unmatched.
Africa: Davido — as a result of he’s uncooked, actual, and connects deeply.
World: Chris Brown — as a result of I do know our energies would create magic.
Final one — end this sentence:
The African KING OF VIBES — and belief me, Google will agree.
