TJay KARTEL, a force to reckon with in the afrobeat music genre 🔊 WhatsMusic.de

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TJay KARTEL, a force to reckon with in the afrobeat music genre

written by TJay KARTEL and WhatsMusic.de

TJay Kartel, is a dynamic recording artist hailing from Imo State, Nigeria. With a musical journey that began under the influence of his mother, a church choir director, TJay Kartel has cultivated a deep passion for music that has shaped his life and career.

His debut single, “Eleweukwu,” released during his time as a national youth corps member, propelled him into the limelight and earned him significant recognition in the Nigerian music scene. Since then, TJay Kartel has released two full-length albums and numerous singles, collaborating with notable artists like Mr. Raw and SlowDog.

TJay Kartel’s music is a vibrant blend of Afrobeat, Afro-pop, and highlife, reflecting the rich diversity of the Nigerian music landscape. His latest release, “Close to You,” is a heartfelt track that showcases his emotional depth and lyrical prowess.

Beyond music, TJay Kartel has a strong passion for construction, which he pursued professionally for a time. This diverse background has enriched his artistic perspective and contributed to his unique storytelling ability.

TJay Kartel is signed to Ssyma Records, a Nigerian-owned label with a base in the United States. He continues to inspire fans with his powerful voice and authentic lyrics, encouraging them to chase their dreams with unwavering belief and dedication.

Interview with TJay KARTEL

Tell us about yourself, who are you and where do you come from?

I hail from the beautiful Imo State in Nigeria, a place rich in culture and tradition. The music scene in Nigeria is incredibly dynamic and full of energy. It’s a melting pot of various genres, with Afrobeat, Afro-pop, and highlife being particularly prominent. The Nigerian music industry is known for its collaborative spirit, where artists often come together to create unique sounds that resonate both locally and internationally. The scene is also very supportive, with a strong sense of community among musicians. This environment has been instrumental in shaping my musical journey and has provided me with countless opportunities to grow and evolve as an artist.

How was your passion for music born? Who are your idols?

My life experiences have played a pivotal role in shaping my music. Growing up with a mom who was deeply involved in music as the choir director of our church instilled in me a love for melody and harmony from a very young age. This foundation was further strengthened during my college years at the University of Calabar and later at IMT Enugu, where I continued to nurture my passion for music. My time serving as a national youth corps member in Nigeria was particularly impactful, as it was during this period that I released my debut single, ‘Eleweukwu,’ which catapulted me into the limelight. Even during the years when I stepped away from music to pursue a career in construction, I never stopped writing and creating. Those experiences outside of music provided me with a fresh perspective and a deeper understanding of the world, which I believe has enriched my songwriting. Every chapter of my life has contributed to the stories I tell through my music, making each song a personal and authentic reflection of my journey.

What kind of music do you do?

Afrobeat

What is the most important song for you? What message do you want to convey to the listener?

My latest singles, which is “Close to You”. It is a deeply personal and emotionally charged song that tells the story of a man who is willing to go to great lengths to be with the love of his life. The track is a blend of Afrobeat and highlife, creating a unique and captivating sound that I hope will resonate with listeners on multiple levels. The lyrics are heartfelt and honest, reflecting the raw emotions that come with being deeply in love and the sacrifices we make for those we care about. The creative process for “Close to You” was both challenging and rewarding. I wanted to capture the essence of love and longing in a way that was authentic and relatable. The melody and rhythm of the song are designed to evoke a sense of urgency and passion, mirroring the emotions of the protagonist in the story. I am incredibly proud of this track and excited for fans to hear it and connect with the narrative it tells. My hope is that “Close to You” will inspire listeners to reflect on their own experiences with love and the lengths they would go to for the people they cherish.

Why should a listener who doesn’t know you listen to your music?

Catchy and melodic

What are your future projects? Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?

As a creative artist, there is always a future project. In 5 years from now, i hope to have millions of fans world-wide and perform at 02 Arena

Tell our readers a funny episode that happened in your career as an artist.

to be honest, none

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