“We started off just like you, with nothing but goals and dreams to achieve,” says Monday Godswill, one-half of the dynamic duo TIMEGANG. Hailing from Igwuruta, Port Harcourt, TIMEGANG is rising from humble beginnings to become a notable name in the Nigerian music industry. Their journey is a testimony of perseverance, talent, and the power of a supportive background.
Monday Godswill and Amadi Elvis, better known by their stage name TIMEGANG, grew up in Port Harcourt, where their love for music was nurtured in the vibrant streets of Igwuruta. Despite being “products of the street”, their strong family values instilled in them a sense of purpose and direction. “We are God-fearing street boys,” they say, blending their street experiences with solid family support to create meaningful music.
Their musical journey began with performances at social gatherings, school events, community carnivals, birthdays, and weddings. Encouraged by friends who admired their sound, they continued singing through their university days. It was during this time that they recorded their first song, “Jogodo,” marking the official formation of TIMEGANG and the start of their professional career.
Afrobeat and Afropop are the genres that resonate most with TIMEGANG, reflecting their roots and the broader appeal they seek. Influenced by legendary artists like Michael Jackson, Bob Marley, Fela Kuti, P-Square, Burna Boy, and Wizkid, they have crafted a unique sound that combines traditional Afrobeat with contemporary pop elements.
Their 2021 release, “The South Side EP,” marked a significant milestone. Although it didn’t achieve mainstream success, it was a critical step in their growth as artists. The perseverance paid off with the release of “No. 8” in 2022, which saw them gain significant traction in the music scene.
TIMEGANG’s creative process is inspired by nature and their environment. Their music often explores themes of peace and love, aiming to convey a message of hope and positivity to their audience. They strive to connect with their fans through relatable lyrics and energetic live performances, creating an atmosphere of love and excitement.
As anticipation builds for their upcoming projects, including a new EP and the single “Asalam Alekun,” TIMEGANG remains focused on their vision for the future. They aim to reach a broader audience and make a lasting impact on the music industry. Their advice to aspiring musicians is simple: “Trust the process and keep up the hard work; you will surely get there in time.”
With their eyes set on influencing the next generation of musicians positively, TIMEGANG’s journey from Igwuruta to the Nigerian music charts serves as an inspiring blueprint for success.
