One of Nigeria’s emerging artist and producer, Alozie Emmanuel Orji popularly known as Alonzi, has said that his rhythm is a spiritual escape for himself and his fans. In an interview with Ajuluchukwu Brown, he shared his musical journey and expectations.

Tell us about yourself
I was born and raised in Lagos. Studied Music Education at the University of Nigeria (UNN). I am also a producer, sound Engineer and vocal coach and I play the guitar and Piano.
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What informed your decision to do music?
Honestly, my love for music came from watching my dad play some old records in the house. Those songs he played registered themselves in my music taste buds. And about the journey so far, it has been a rollercoaster of experiences that have helped shape my brand. I started with just singing, then the need to create my sound arose, and I delved into playing instruments and then full music production.

What project are you currently on? An EP, Single or Album?
So for now, I am spinning the ball as a producer. In my creative element, discovering new sounds and exploring my creative being. Of course, as an artist, I have hundreds of songs recorded so always expect new music from the Xhrine for sure.

Xhrine? Is that your metaphor for a studio?
Yeah. It all started in my university days. They called me the Ezemmuo of my department. Then one day, someone came to record in my studio and called me a chief priest so the name just stuck. the chief priest stays in his shrine. So the Xhrine in this context is my studio.

What genre does your music fall into? What is your production style?
My rhythm is a spiritual escape for me and my listening audience. Afro-fusion best describes my sound. Because of my wide music knowledge, I have had so many influences over time and I can make beats across different genres. So my mind is like a melting pot for every sound I come across daily.

Do you have any influence from any other artist?
Yeah. Micheal Jackson, Asa and Jon Bellion.

Have you collaborated with any Nigerian artist or who do you intend to collaborate with?
I have collaborated with a lot of artists from my university days till date and it is just beautiful to see that I can use my gift to help others and make an impact in my little way. I have collaborated with a good number of emerging artists from the Southeast and it’s fulfilling to see them grow as well. Music is all about a good vibe and positive energy so I’m willing to work with anyone as long as the energy is right.
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Nigerian music is a global anthem now. How does that make you feel as an emerging Artist? Any concerns?
We are all very proud of how far we have come and one thing this has shown to us is that everything is possible. At this point, there are no limitations on genres and culture. With proper research and marketing, you can move from an underdog to an A-list as long as the music is good and accessible people will love it. As an emerging artist, I see the drive and the passion from every part of the country. It’s not just Lagos although we all know this city presents the needed opportunities cause of its history with entertainment and the commercial aspect as well. Other places like Enugu, Abuja and Benin are also pushing hard and it’s only a matter of time. I think with proper structure in other states it will be a win-win for creatives in the country and the culture at large.

Where do you see Alonzi in the next five years?
I am a man with no limitations. I just keep evolving and climbing the ladder of greatness.
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