Getting the opportunity to interview Afro B was something I never imagined happening. My college roommate and I would always listen to his hit song “Drogba (Joanna)” and we quickly became more familiar with his catalogue. Fast forward two years, I got the opportunity to ask him some questions. Here’s how it went in this week’s Deep Dive below.

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What’s your background?

I was born and raised in London. My parents are both from the Ivory Coast.

When did you know that you wanted to pursue music full-time?

I was taught how to play the piano at 13-years-old. Instead of reading music, I often played by ear – meaning I was able to hear a song and be able to replay what I heard. When I discovered this talent, I used to upload songs on YouTube and attempt to replay them on the piano. My passion for music began from there. I grew up listening to all genres of music. From rock, African music, reggae, dancehall, blues, RnB, pop, everything apart from heavy metal.

Can you explain what Afrobeats / Afrowave?

"Afrobeats" is a combination of sounds, with the African sound being the main umbrella. "Afrowave" is going deeper into the combination and variation of sound. It is also a movement to promote African culture, connecting people back to their roots, connecting all cultures, and making the world a happier place.

Personal favorite record from your discography?

My personal favorite is "Joanna (Drogba)" because it brought me closer to my dreams of being a well-established global artist. The song has allowed me to do one of the things I love the most, which is traveling and exploring.

Who are some artists that have been inspiring you lately and do you have a dream collaboration?

Dream collab – Rick Ross. Inspired by – DMX, Tupac, and Jay-Z.

What’s your creative process like?

Very melody-focused, that is the priority and the lyrics come after. If the melody and beats are sweet to the ear, it doesn’t matter what language the lyrics are in. The song can make anybody move.

Explain the transition from being a DJ to becoming an artist?

The transition was difficult, because I had to prove to people that I could be consistent with dropping hits. People were used to me throwing parties and playing their favorite songs at an event. At first, it was hard for people to comprehend me trying something new and leaving what I was already good at behind. I used this as motivation to prove them wrong. I performed at all the events I organized, played my music on my radio show, put them in DJ mixes, and also played my songs during DJ sets. There was no avoiding me.

Most memorable show you’ve done and why?

HOT97 Summer Jam. Who would’ve thought the Southeast Londoner DJ would end up performing at one of the biggest and historical hip-hop events of all time!? It reassured me that I am going in the right direction. It will be a time I will never forget.

What can we expect from your project in 2022?

Afrowave 4, the album. During the pandemic, I took time out for the first time in my career to practice my craft, and now I believe I’m at the best level I’ve ever been.

Favorite social media platform and why?

Instagram because of the direct contact with fans.

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