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 with no finances
• And why the title King of Vibe isn’t simply hype — it’s a prophecy.
Prepare to satisfy the Cruz that the various search engines haven’t caught up with but.
“Cruz” is such a daring stage title. Had been you ever apprehensive in regards to the comparability with Tom Cruise or different well-known Cruzes? How do you make the title 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 just 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 title 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 suppose Nigerian music has area 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 vitality is genuine. Wherever I’m going, I carry that vibe, even once I’m not singing. And sure, there’s area — a giant one. Nigeria has its large three, however the stage is extensive sufficient for extra crowns. The actual factor is being ready. So when my time comes totally, I’ll be prepared to hold that title and develop 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 finances. I used to be pushing Time 4 Cash from inside the home, all alone. It obtained to some extent 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 arduous, however needed. In the present day, I see that silence because the coaching floor for who I’ve turn into.
Quite a lot of 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 circulate in Yoruba, Igbo, pidgin, something. However sure, I’ve felt the imbalance within the trade. Lagos gatekeeps loads. However that is my first official Lagos push, and I imagine 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 that 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 attempting 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 wish to present people who I’m not a one-trick artist. “Gum Physique” was love and groove. “Good Conduct” was extra aware. KOV is the complete vibe. I can rap, I can sing, I can glide on blues, road beats, hip-hop, home — something. I would like followers to anticipate vary from me, not repetition.
Let’s be actual: the music trade is stuffed 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 now have values, and we right 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 personal songs? And if sure, which lyrics are you most pleased with — and why?
Sure, each single line. I imagine in proudly owning my artwork. After I write, I’m extra linked 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 youngsters and selecting your finest. Every music is tied to a second in my life. So I like all of them equally. All of them inform components of my story.
Your music feels very vibe-heavy — however what’s the message beneath the vibe? What are you attempting to inform younger Nigerians?
I’m saying: Chop life, however preserve your head. Take pleasure in whilst you’re right here — no person is aware of tomorrow. However do it on good conduct. You don’t must ball in Lekki earlier than you’re feeling good. Have fun what you might 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 after they make you dance.
If somebody Googles “Cruz” in the present day, Tom Cruise or Ted Cruz exhibits up. What do you wish to present up as a substitute, 5 months from now?
What’s one private battle you’ve confronted not too long ago that the majority followers don’t find out about — and the way did it form your music?
Who’re your prime 3 dream collaborations — one from Nigeria, one from Africa, and one world?
I received’t lie — that is from the center, not technique.
Nigeria: Niniola — her vocals and vitality are unmatched.
Africa: Davido — as a result of he’s uncooked, actual, and connects deeply.
International: 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.
