21st November, 2022
By Taiwo Okanlawon
LB is an Afrobeats artist who developed a penchant for music at a young age, writing music at every opportunity he got and watching different acts as they sang their songs on TV. He has always wanted to be in that position – to be the performer.
The promising act whose real name is Leonard Eze Onwuka, dropped his debut single titled I’m in Love in 2012 before he went off the radar for a while to focus on honing his musical talent. Even before establishing himself firmly on 2021’s ‘My Number One’, LB has evolved a lot after the early struggles he faced as an upcoming artist. His music has gone through so much refining, and maturity is evident in his lyrics and composition.
As he works tirelessly on his upcoming project, LB says he is prepared to take music listeners to a different level with his sound.
You recently dropped your first single, how is the feedback so far?
I’m hopeful and really looking forward to people experiencing and accepting my sound. I believe the feedback will be awesome.
Tell us more about your background.
I am from Abia State, Nigeria but I grew up with my family in Lagos Nigeria. I was born on 23rd August. I attended Pampers primary school, and I started my secondary school education in Rainbow college but finished it in St. Jude’s private school. I also did my tertiary education at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU).
Growing up we were pretty comfortable financially. My father had to be away most time to get some money in and my mum stayed with us a lot. Down the line, things weren’t really going okay in my family and it opened my eyes to appreciate people and life in general. It was a point of reflection about life, and it opened my eyes to a lot. Even as a songwriter and artiste.
Is it difficult to combine music, and songwriting with production?
It’s not difficult at all, so far you have the passion it’s never difficult.
How would you describe your struggle over the years finding your feat in the industry?
My talent paved way for me, but my Network is also helping me. God is also by my side and a very key factor for me in this journey.
How long have you been in the music industry?
10 years and counting. I started music as young as 13 years, professionally. My mum took me to my first-ever studio recording and show. She was with me till she had to leave the country and then I was on my own and I met Beats by Timmy.
Tell us about challenges you face and whether was there a time you feel like quitting.
I faced a lot of challenges. Growing up, no one listened to me. I kept looking forward to getting that spotlight, or even to be noticed at least. I did feel like quitting along the way, it wasn’t really easy. I knew no one, I even left music for a while to focus on other things. Down the line, I met beats by Timmy and my passion came back.
My music is evolved a lot after my early struggles I faced as an upcoming artist. My music has gone through so much refining, and the maturity and evident in my lyrics and composition now.
Does having a record label play a big role in the industry?
Of course, a label is important for promotions, finances, and networking. As much as they have a role to play they can also harm your journey.
Who influences you in the music industry?
I have alot of influence when I was starting but I will always respect these few. Tuface, Wande Coal, Burna boy, and Popcaan.
Who would you like to collaborate with among the heavyweights in the music industry?
Tuface, Burna boy, Wande Coal , 9ice, D’Banj, Sean Kingston, and Popcaan
What do you think the future holds for the Nigerian music industry?
The Nigerian industry has started appreciating diversity. We have more female songwriters and artists today, and it’s amazing to see. It’s amazing to see that the industry has made room for women. There’s a lot to come, and i’m excited to be part of it!
If you’re not doing music, what will you be doing?
If not Music, I’ll be a businessman. But it’s music trust me. Music or nothing
What other project do you want to embark on now?
We’re currently working on an EP, so stay tuned. Lol
Your advice to younger artistes like you?
Do you, Be You. Filter the noise, don’t listen to them. Build a strong team, be business oriented and gain a lot of knowledge about the industry. Even if you’re not big, be self-aware of the industry and its mechanics. Be patient and it will work out. Raise Da Beat up.