Kold AF…African songbird spreads her wings

Joining the class of newcomers in Nigeria’s expansive music scene is Kold AF. A voice capable of needing no introductions, Kold AF steps into the Afro-fusion scene with much gusto and sonic wonder. Her latest work, Kold Szn, reflects the singer’s depth in songwriting, singing and storytelling, as she takes one on an adventure down the twin-realities of love and heartbreak.

With her music now making the rounds, Guardian caught up with the blooming superstar, delving into the exciting eccentricities of her craft.

How do you feel about releasing your new project?
It is my debut EP. It feels great. I had been working on my craft, with my manager Excel Joab. It feels fulfilling, like the start of something monumental.

Why RnB for you?
I am inclined to RnB because of my mum. She played a lot of RnB/Soul music when I was a child. It really stuck, because I learned techniques (of singing) from it. However, it is not the only style I do; I do a fusion of RnB, Afrobeats and Dancehall.

When did you start singing?
I started when I was six. However, I started professionally in 2020.

Why music for you?
I am studying Law right now in university. I understood that I do not have a passion for law. However, I have always had a passion for music. My friend Aisosa just kept opening my eyes to see that this music will be a great thing to pursue in my lifetime. I just said to myself that I wanted to do music full time.

Where are you schooling?
Obafemi Awolowo University. I am in my final year.

Are you sure you won’t juggle it with the music?
I am keeping an open mind; because I have been here for years. I need to finish the degree. I am not going to law school immediately; I want to focus on my music for now.

How did you come up with the name ‘Kold AF’? Tell us what it means.
It embodies my aura, my attitude, my music, my voice, my style and my aesthetics. It embodies me. I would say Kold is basically what I stand for. The kind of music I do is tied to heartbreak. It is like a villain origin story. It is just an authority to how I say things and make music.

So, how do you decide the type of stories you want to sing about?
I like to tell my stories, and the stories of other people. I have always felt that I can tap into others’ emotions. I want to use music to touch on these issues, from depression to anything. I just want to make relatable music. I just wanted to start my career with the themes of love and heartbreak. The song Wasted, off the EP talks about falling in love, while the other song Blues, talks about heartbreak.

So, what is the vision for Kold AF?
I am going full throttle. I am hoping to do something really soon. I am aiming for growth. I am dropping more music. I have particular goals in mind and I just want to start living them one by one.