It’s an honour to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story? How did you get to where you are today?
I go by the name Preachermafioso, I am a musician, producer, and I’ve been a youth mentor for about two decades. I was born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria with my late twin Chris (Xrixtox). Growing up poor, yet our parents made sure we were raised in the highest moral values, which I believe has been a guiding factor in my quest for a better humanity. My earliest exposure and influence in music came from my dad who himself was ardent about music. As a musician, I try not to box myself with genre specifics, as I have been influenced by various genres, I make music based on whatever inspiration comes at the specific moment, and that I have no control over. But if I were to describe my artistry I will call it Afrovogue, a self invented sound that stems from Afro music, Afrobeat, consisting of laidback flex, rhythm, distinct cadence and sometimes blend of rap. I hold a certificate in management from Harvard business school, and I am also a member of the Recording Academy, organizers of the Grammy.
I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?
I came from a background where you had to bring your own chair and desk to school. I used to live in a compound with over 50 tenants, yet with just two bathrooms and toilet. In 2001, my family had to endure the humiliation of our one time landlord taking off the roof to our apartment while we were at school and my parents were at work back in Lawanson Surulere. I dropped out of college 3 times due to lack of funds. My dad had been unfairly terminated at his job. Many times we couldn’t afford food, the list is endless.
However, sometimes when I seem to forget what I am running for, I simply remind myself what I am running from, plus I got a wife and two beautiful daughters, a nephew and mum I am entirely responsible for, so I can’t afford to sleep on a bicycle lol.
Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?
2020 witnessed the released/almost single handedly self produced debut album Xrix N Yoso. I am excited to announce, that I am currently at the wrap up phase of a 12 track follow up album, Broken Wings, featuring tracks like OBOH, BLENDED, currently receiving radio plays across select countries in Africa. My artistry is more of a reflection of my background, personal experiences, mostly bitter yet of resilience. It’s sad, but I must admit, my artistry is fueled from a place of pain, having lost, my little sister, my twin brother, my dad all within a decade, and coming to the states hustling without papers. My personal experiences are relatable, but my sound is unique and spiritual, it is straight from the heart.
What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?
I have come to the personal realization, that in reality we exist and reside here on earth but live mostly in our heads, most of our perceived realities, fears, excuses etc. exist only in our heads, never let them hold you back, perceived not actual. And lastly, perhaps most importantly in what ever role you play, NEVER play GOD!
Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?
Personally, success to me means achieving a desired goal, it’s more about achieving a goal as opposed to how lofty the goal might be or not be.
If you had set and achieved the goal of becoming the world’s richest man, that only translate success if you achieved it, not simply because you are the world’s richest man, as you can be that but yet don’t see your self successful. And if you set and achieved the goal of being able to provide as basic as a modest living for your family, then you are a success, as the set goal was achieved. And the same goes to various areas of life, be it faith, health, career or relationship goals.
As young people, we must understand that success is relative, and not what social media force feeds us. It’s sad but I have seen many good people feel like they failed or failing, meanwhile all they do is constantly grade themselves by the wrong test, thanks to social pressure. It’s only normal to arrive a wrong destination with a faulty map.
What’s next for you?
The goal is releasing an extensive number of music catalogues. I am talking 15 albums, sometimes releasing two within a year.
I am open to collaboration, music pact/business, currently networking extensively as possible with creatives, and organizations that share similar goals and interest as I do in areas of music, and sustainable youth development, empowerment
Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more.
I will really love to say thank you for this opportunity, It has indeed been a honor and i am humbled.
And if you are reading this, thank you, feel free to connect.
I can be reached at
preachermafioso@gmail.com
Via my social media handles
@Preachermafioso
www.preachermafioso.com
You can also purchase/stream my songs by searching “Preachermafioso” on all streaming platforms