10 questions for Phaemous

Earlier this month, Phaemous released the love song ‘Violet’, which he says was inspired by toxic relationships. The record was released on Remitano Entertainment and heralds his upcoming debut EP PHÆWAY Vol. 1, which he hopes will launch him to the global stage.

The musician spoke to Music In Africa about his style, unique experiences as an R&B artist in Nigeria and the forthcoming project.

Music In Africa: What drew you to R&B in such a heavily Afrobeats terrain?

PHAEMOUS: Since I was a kid, I’ve been listening to Michael Jackson. He was literally the first artist I opened my eyes to. Seeing him inspire major superstars like Usher, Chris Brown and The Weeknd made me fall in love with the R&B scene. I also didn’t fully escape being inspired by the heavy Afrobeats terrain here in Nigeria, because I look at myself as that R&B kid with Afro roots. So I definitely I infuse that into my music, too.

What have your experiences been so far as an R&B artist in Nigeria?

I’ve had to experiment with my music in so many ways, seeing as how R&B music is not big here. For example, my single ‘How You Gonn’ Listen to This Voice and Not Trip’ had a lot of traction here and even outside Nigeria. That showed me I could comfortably create my sounds with the confidence of making significant waves in the music industry. I have also been able to collaborate with massive hip hop acts here in Africa such as PsychoYP and Blaqbonez, as well as frontrunners of Afro-drill in Abuja like Eeskay and Odumodu Blvck.

What other genres do you explore in your music?

My music is not limited to R&B. I definitely explore other genres such as Afrobeats, jazz, neo-soul, trap and electronic music. I’m an artist who likes to create and experience different sounds – as long as they speak to me.

What inspired ‘Violet’ and what would you like listeners to take away from the song?

‘Violet’ was inspired by numerous heartbreaks, not just mine but those of others as well. I actually wrote that song two years ago. I had been waiting for the right time to put it out and I just felt it was time to let go of all that pain, and to also let anyone out there going through similar pain know that it is validated.

What themes do you explore on your debut project, PHÆWAY Vol. 1?

I explore my Gemini ego with a touch of Greek mythology, which symbolise the spiritual connection I have with my music.

What was the process of creating the project like for you?

The whole process was really invigorating because I had been working on the tape for almost two years. A lot of obstacles came forth but I realised it was all for the best after seeing, feeling and listening to what I had created. My experiences from school also brought a lot of inspiration in fine-tuning this amazing body of work.

Are there collaborators on the album?

Yes there are. Aside from the lead single ‘Violet’ featuring my label mate Drayko, I also created standout jams with Eeskay and PsychoYP.

What has your experience been as an artist working during COVID-19?

It’s been really slow in the office on the show front, seeing that many events were cancelled, but it also brought forth major inspiration and discoveries about myself and my music, ones I could never take back.

What do you intend for PHÆWAY Vol. 1, and your career as a whole?

I would love to see this debut tape make its way around the world and be accepted for its uniqueness. As for my career, I am open to endless possibilities and opportunities that come my way, and make sure I utilise them. One of my dreams is to sell out the Staples Center in Los Angeles and Madison Square Garden in New York. Ultimately, I hope to see out these dreams and take my art to the next level.