Artist Spotlight: M.I. Abaga

M.I. Abaga is a superstar. Often heralded as ‘Africa’s number 1 rapper’, M.I.’s name carries huge weight in the Afro scene, as a stalwart of one of the fastest rising movements in world music. Abaga is due to released his highly anticipated 6th studio album ‘PTSD (Pillow Talk and Sweet Dreams)’ on 8th October, and has so far released excellent, diverse singles from the project. Most recently, Abaga unleashed summer banger ‘All My Life’ featuring Afrobeats frontrunner Oxlade.

We spoke to M.I. (short for Mr Incredible) about his upcoming album, his business ventures, and the globalisation of Afrobeats. 

How has the corona pandemic affected you creatively and personally? 

For me, as a Nigerian ‘young person’ the pandemic period came with a lot more than just staying at home and trying to stay alive, which was traumatic enough. End Sars and its implications for our country impacted so much and as an empath and a creative I felt drained. What started out as a good period for creativity (I recorded an EP with AQ in 4 days) became a trying time where I struggled to challenge myself creatively.

Who influences the music you make? 

Everything. Life, Love, Loss, Regret, Hope, Joy, Sex. I find that pain is a much better muse than happiness though. For me personally, that has meant channelling my inner fear of abandonment that has been triggered by my experiences in love and in the entertainment industry. 

You are often referred to as Africa’s biggest rapper - what’s it like carrying such a significant title? 

It’s quite a conundrum for me as the title was something that I intentionally put out there, even though I can clearly see that I, Jude, the human behind this alter ego, am just a human being who has a gift and incredible opportunities. I’ll put it like this, I want people to listen to my music and say ‘wow this was made by the best rapper ever’, but then meet me and say ‘what a regular guy’.

Your new album features some huge names, the likes of Nas. How did you manage to accumulate such major names? 

It is such an honor to be working the God MC Nas. That collab is something that has been in the pipeline for quite a while and I am glad we made it happen. Of course, working with legendary artists such as him is gratifying, however, every artist I work with I see in the same way. Whether you have heard of them or not. 

If you are introducing someone to your music for the first time, what track would you choose to play? 

Great question. I would have to ask them a question first though, and it would be tell me what you are listening to now. Then I would know what to play. Im sorry, the catalog is just that diverse!

You’ve been around for a while now; this is your 6th studio album. Do you still hold the same passion and drive for creating music as you did when you began in the industry?

Absolutely, the passion is the same. It is an honor to do what I love and make a living from it and I do not take that for granted. 

I know you are planning some business ventures, could you tell me a little about that? 

I started an amazing new company called TASCK that allows creatives to work with organisations that want to create change in the world and help them amplify their message. I also have a record label called Incredible Music (watch out for us!!) and I’m involved in a number of small investments on the side. I could tell you but then…

What would you describe as the main themes and motifs on your new record? 

Positive energy and vibes. Coming into this project I had to reflect on how much life for me had changed. Today I have one goal on my mind and that is to help people around me, including myself, truly flourish. What that looks like is some great music, some good people around you, some herb to help conversation be understood at a deeper level, and time. Oh!! And the album playing in the background. 

What do you think of the British view on African music? Do you think it is overlooked, and do you think that can change or is already improving? 

In my opinion, the UK played a huge role in the globalisation of Afrobeats today. You can’t tell the story of the spread of our culture without mentioning Dj Edu, Dj Abrantee, Smade, CokoBar, Ricki Davies, etc. We aren’t where we need to be, but we are on the way there and it has been a beautiful journey to behold. 

What is your favourite track on the new LP?

Impossible question for anyone to answer. I’ll ask you after it comes out and I know (hope) you say you can’t pick one either. 

What does the future hold for you? 

Music, vibes, good energy, love and peace.