28th April, 2022
Tostar has been in the music scene for a while and has been working behind the scene, looking forward to the appropriate time to show the industry his talent.
Born Ojo Ouwatosin Gabriel, the fast-rising rapper, singer, and songwriter had shown a promising start for music lovers across the country when he dropped his debut single “Won Yaya“.
The independent artiste’s unique style of music is a strong message that another star has emerged as the New Kid On The Block.
Tostar who is currently studying Banking and Finance at Olabisi Onabanjo University speaks about his beginning, his creative process, and future projects.
Tell us more about your background?
I am Ojo Ouwatosin Gabriel professionally known as Tostar, I’m a native of Osun State I was born in Lagos on March 19, 1999. Grew up in Ikotun, Lagos. I am a Nigerian singer and rapper.
You have been in the entertainment industry for a few years, how would you describe your struggle over the years?
It’s not been easy, It has been tough as I have been working underground for a while but I believe in consistency and hard work we are getting there.
Who are some of the artists you’ve been able to collaborate with over the years?
I have worked with a few of them, the likes of Nunex, Danielsugar, Fezzy, Estola, and Fola. I hope to work with more amazing artists as time passes.
What project do you want to embark on now?
I am currently working on a lot of stuff right now, but I will be dropping a single in a few weeks time.
When did you decide to become a musician?
Well, I discovered my musical talent when I was in secondary school, that’s when I knew this is what I wanted to do and since then I have been griding.
Who influences you in the music industry?
I have got many but I will say Olamide, Davido, Wizkid, and Lil Kesh.
What do you think the future holds for the Nigerian music industry?
I believe Nigerian music and Afrobeats, in general, is getting bigger day by the day. In the nearest future, the Nigerian music industry would be one of the biggest in the world and we are already seeing the prophecy coming to pass. It is just a matter of time.
What was your parents’ reaction to your decision to go into music?
My grandfather was a musician, they feel like that’s where I got it from so, yes they are fully in support of this path.
COVID-19 has affected the industry, how have you been coping?
Well, I’m fine. Generally, everything is getting into shape now, COVID-19 didn’t really affect my music rather it gave me more time to improve myself which I still am.
Many rappers switched to commercial to make more money, what’s your take on this?
If an artiste has a passion for rapping money can’t stop that, take a look Olamide Baddo, he sings but he is still a badder rapper anytime any day and he’s making good money.
Who are the top artistes you want to collaborate with?
Olamide, Davido, Wizkid, Teniola and Lil Kesh.
As an artiste, you must have had your fair share of police brutality?
Sure, that’s a big problem almost everyone faces in Nigeria not even only us in the music industry. It is a Nigerian thing.
Did you take part in the #EndSARS protest? What do you think the youths achieved with that one voice?
Yes, I did. Well, it was an opportunity to be heard by the government and the world. For a while, we were heard and the SARS operation was stopped. What followed is what we don’t pray to happen again. Now, we are back to square one.
If you’re not doing music, what will you be doing?
I’ll probably be a banker, I am currently studying Banking and Finance at Olabisi Onabanjo University.
Your advise to upcoming artistes like you?
Don’t stop working on yourself, keep believing, and always pray.