Sammylong: Crafting authentic Afro-pop hits with passion and purpose

Samuel Uhunoma Ojeabulu, known professionally as Sammylong, is an emerging Nigerian artist whose musical journey is shaped by a deep-rooted passion for music that began in his early years. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Sammylong’s musical talents were first nurtured in the church choir, where he began singing and learning to play a variety of instruments. This early exposure to music set the stage for what would become a lifelong commitment to the craft. Sammylong’s love for music wasn’t just a hobby—it was a calling he embraced wholeheartedly, and he quickly realized that his life would revolve around his passion for creating and performing.

Growing up, Sammylong was part of a musical group called “The Elevated Crusaders,” which included talented artists like El $age. Their collaboration on several projects was the foundation of Sammylong’s growth as an artist. One of the standout songs from this period is Marathon, a thrilling Afro-pop track that features a groovy beat and infectious energy. The song captures the essence of Sammylong’s musical style—positive, energetic, and filled with a sense of love and devotion. Marathon speaks to the beauty of a woman and the lengths a man is willing to go to for her love. The track’s uplifting message has garnered massive attention, with fans praising its catchy rhythm and heartfelt lyrics.

Looking ahead, Sammylong is preparing to release his highly anticipated EP titled Happy Hour in mid-2025. This project, a collaboration with his longtime friend El $age, aims to showcase the joyful spirit of Nigeria and its people. With the title Happy Hour, the EP is set to be a celebration of life, joy, and the vibrant energy that defines Nigerian culture. It promises to be a captivating musical experience that resonates with audiences and showcases Sammylong’s growth as an artist.

For Sammylong, music is more than just a career, it’s an avenue for self-expression. “Music has always been a huge part of my life,” he reflects. “It has always been my passion, so I am following my passion. When you do something you love, work becomes fun. That’s what music does for me.” This passion fuels his songwriting, with themes of love, joy, positivity, and motivation woven throughout his music. His songs are designed to uplift listeners, offering both emotional depth and energetic beats that inspire happiness and celebration.

When discussing the Nigerian music industry, Sammylong expresses admiration for its rapid growth and evolution. He believes that the industry has come a long way in the past decade, with greater recognition and appreciation for diverse sounds from different regions of Nigeria. “The industry has become more coordinated than ever before,” he says, noting how the diversity of Nigerian music is now being celebrated on a global scale. Sammylong sees himself as part of this exciting new era, where originality and innovation are key to success. “What makes me different is my ability to stick with inspiration rather than imitation. I make music based on my persona, personal experiences, and everything around me,” he explains.

Looking to the future, Sammylong has big aspirations. In the next ten years, he envisions his career reaching the heights of global recognition, constantly producing hits that blend catchy rhythms with meaningful messages. For him, the journey is just beginning, and with his unique sound and unwavering passion, Sammylong is set to make a lasting impact on the music industry.