Emerging Naija: Vibing with Radar X

The musician, born Oyemike Achi, aims to transcend traditional boundaries, to challenge established norms and prioritise holistic artistic experiences by drawing inspiration from frequencies and human connection.

Radar X, who describes his craft as versatile and embodying an ‘X factor’, cites Fela Kuti, Lauryn Hill, Bob Marley, Burna Boy and Michael Jackson among his biggest influences. ‘Pretty Babes’, dedicated to exalting and honouring women of diverse backgrounds, serves as a precursor to his debut EP The Vybe Magixian.

MUSIC IN AFRICA: Kudos on the recent release of your song ‘Pretty Babes’. What emotions are running through you now that it’s officially out?

RADAR X: Blessings and positive energy. Hopefully, every girl out there will be on this energy too. 

Reflecting on your musical journey, how do you perceive the evolution of your sound from when you first began? 

I’d say it’s been a journey. I’ve always been versatile and unpredictable with my sound. But I can tell it’s more defined now. I’m in my X factor!

In comparing ‘Pretty Babes’ to your previous work, what distinctive elements or progressions can listeners expect to hear?

‘Pretty Babes’ allowed me to express my creativity in different forms: the flow from the beat to my delivery, the campaign message, the community-based narrative, and how it translates to me as a character.

Where do you see your music carving its niche or making a unique contribution in today’s pop circles?

I’m all about innovation. I was born to create a universe where music is more immersive and can reflect every other form of art and even people’s daily lives. So I see my music creating a niche that transcends beyond just the sound.

Artistic inspiration plays a crucial role in shaping one’s craft. Who would you say are the most significant influences on your creative expression?

Frequencies. I listen to frequencies to keep my mind creative. And I connect with random people and try to feel what they feel. It allows me to escape through different realities, and that way, I can tap into different aspects of my creative vibe.

Everyone has a preferred creative zone. What time of the day do you find is the most conducive for your songwriting and musical exploration?

The truth is, it’s not a time factor, it’s a vibe factor. When I’m in the vibe, it doesn’t matter what time it is, just what vibe I’m in.

If you could collaborate with any Nigerian artist, who would it be?

Easy one. Burna Boy, and that’s because the music would be very experimental and new. He’s also a fusion artist and loves to experiment. That’s one thing I find in common with him. 

What do you hope listeners will take away from ‘Pretty Babes’ in terms of its message or the emotions it conveys?

Being pretty is not just about the physical or social steez, it’s more about your aura, self-acceptance and your energy. ‘Pretty Babes’ is a campaign to empower women and make them appreciate themselves more, because they’re queens.

What new directions or genres are you eager to explore in your future projects?

I’m multilayered when it comes to genre. I’d always create a new vibe, so it might not be from a popular genre, it would just be a new vibe, thus I don’t use the word genre. You can say vibe.