Nigerian singer Ikuforiji Olaitan Abdulrahman, popularly known as Oxlade, has shared a remarkable detail about his early musical journey, claiming that he began singing before he could even speak. The Afrobeat star, known for his smooth vocals and unique sound, made this revelation during a recent appearance on the ’90s Babies’ podcast, where he delved into his childhood and the origins of his musical talent.
Oxlade explained that according to his parents, he exhibited signs of a natural-born singer even as a young child. In his recollection, his parents often told him that he would sing before he could string words together, a sign that his musical abilities were already apparent at an early age. “I started singing before I started talking. My parents told me that I started singing before I could even talk,” Oxlade said during the podcast, emphasizing how his singing abilities took precedence over speaking.
For Oxlade, this unique trait marked the beginning of his long-standing relationship with music. He described how, as a child, he was quicker to express himself through singing than through regular speech. “I sang faster than catching up with talks. That was what my parents told me. I feel like that was where it all started from,” he further explained, attributing his musical prowess to these early experiences.
The revelation that he started singing before speaking may come as no surprise to many of his fans, as Oxlade’s vocal talent has been one of his defining characteristics since he burst onto the Nigerian music scene. Over the years, he has garnered praise for his exceptional voice, which has set him apart from many of his peers. His ability to deliver melodic tunes with ease has made him a standout figure in the Afrobeat genre, and his rise to prominence has been swift.
Born in Surulere, Lagos, Oxlade’s journey to fame was not without its challenges. Like many young musicians, he faced several hurdles along the way, from financial struggles to the need for family support. However, his passion for music never wavered, and his natural talent helped him persevere. Oxlade’s commitment to his craft paid off when he caught the attention of music lovers with his hit single “Away,” which gained widespread acclaim and cemented his place as a rising star in the Afrobeat scene.
Reflecting on his musical journey, Oxlade has often spoken about how music has always been an integral part of his life. His claim that he started singing before speaking only reinforces the idea that he was destined for a life in music. For him, music is not just a career but a form of expression that has been with him since his earliest days. His voice, which has become his signature, is something he has nurtured from childhood, making his rise to fame all the more remarkable.
The story of Oxlade’s early introduction to music also highlights the importance of family in nurturing talent. His parents’ recognition of his singing abilities at such a young age and their encouragement likely played a crucial role in shaping his confidence as an artist. In many African households, music is a central part of daily life, with families singing traditional songs and celebrating through music. For Oxlade, this environment may have been the perfect foundation for his talent to flourish.
Oxlade’s revelation about his early singing habits also offers a glimpse into the mysterious nature of musical talent. For some artists, their gifts appear almost instinctively, and Oxlade’s claim to have sung before he could talk is a testament to the idea that some talents are innate. His voice, which has captivated audiences worldwide, is something that has been with him from the very beginning, shaping his identity as an artist.
Today, Oxlade is not only known for his vocal abilities but also for his ability to blend different musical styles. His sound combines elements of Afrobeat, R&B, and soul, creating a distinct musical experience that resonates with fans across the globe. His music has a universal appeal, and his storytelling through song is one of the key reasons for his growing popularity.
In just a few short years, Oxlade has achieved what many artists can only dream of. He has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Sarkodie, Fireboy DML, and Tiwa Savage, and his songs have amassed millions of streams across various platforms. His ability to connect with listeners through his music has made him one of the most promising artists of his generation.
As he continues to rise in the industry, Oxlade remains humble about his beginnings. His claim of singing before speaking reflects his deep connection to music, and it’s clear that this connection will continue to drive him forward. Fans of the singer can expect more great things from him as he continues to develop his sound and push the boundaries of Afrobeat.
In the end, Oxlade’s story serves as a reminder of the power of natural talent and the importance of nurturing that talent from a young age. His journey from a child who sang before he could talk to an international Afrobeat sensation is a testament to his dedication and passion for his craft. And as he continues to make waves in the music industry, his voice will undoubtedly remain his most powerful tool—just as it has been since the very beginning.
