Kizz Daniel and his love letter to his fans

I had the privilege of speaking with Kizz Daniel. He holds the title of being the most streamed artist in Nigeria and has recently dropped a remix of his popular track “Cough” featuring Becky G. The song is featured on his latest album, Maverick. Initially, my intention was to engage in a conversation with him regarding his musical journey, his album, and his perspective on the growing global influence of Afrobeats. 

“Well, first of all, there is a distinction between Afrobeat and Afrobeats,” replied Daniel when I inquired about his thoughts on the increasing popularity of the genre. He proceeded to educate me about the distinction when I inquired about ‘Afrobeats’. He clarified that I was actually referring to his ‘Afrobeat’. I was unaware that Afrobeat is a specific genre, while ‘Afrobeats’ refers to a type of music that incorporates elements of West African cultures, hip-hop, and dancehall. The distinction was significant to him because Afrobeat, as a genre of music, originates from West African culture. This is a subject he is passionate about, as he aims to showcase and educate the world about it. 

“I don’t consider myself to be an Afrobeats artist. I consider the music I create to fall under the genre of Afro-Pop,” stated Daniel. I had never heard someone use the term Afro-Pop before. Kizz explained that it is necessary to make a further distinction because African music cannot be simply grouped under the term ‘Afrobeats’, despite its increasing popularity. Kizz explained, “I refer to my music as such due to my unique composition style, the distinct sounds I incorporate, and the various influences that bring it to life.” 

During a typical interview, you usually learn more about the person you’re conversing with. However, in this particular instance, Kizz not only enlightened me about his own experiences, but also provided valuable insights into an entire genre and style of music. I believe that Kizz Daniel’s uniqueness as an artist stems from this particular aspect. He demonstrates a high level of precision and purpose in his craft and artistry. As an independent artist, he applies those same principles to his music, as is evident in his recent album, Maverick. Daniel described it as a love letter to his fans. 

Kizz is currently in a new phase of his career, where he is assuming a more prominent role as an artist, while taking a step back from his previous focus on business. Just as he educated me on all things Afrobeat, he is also well-educated and knowledgeable in the music industry. His musical talent has propelled him to become the top streaming artist in Africa. However, that is no longer his concern. Daniel confidently stated, “I am creating music that I am passionate about, and I am confident that my true fans will also love it.” When he made this statement, he elaborated by explaining that it involved engaging in experimentation and creating music that originated from his own creativity, rather than relying on a catchy hook or choreography. Kizz expressed, “These songs are meant for people to enjoy, regardless of whether or not they are used for TikTok dance challenges like some of my other songs.” It clearly demonstrates his intention to return his music to its most authentic form of expression. 

“I can always go back to it,” Daniel said jokingly when I asked him what would happen if this new music didn’t go as he hoped. However, he reassured me that his intentions are not focused on the destination he hopes to reach. Instead, he aims to provide himself and his fans with the chance to listen to his heartfelt expressions and tap into his creative realm. Taking a leap of faith and doing something different is always a risk, but he is daring enough to embrace it. He has the option to return to his usual sound and style of music, but he doesn’t seem to be considering that as a significant concern. Kizz expressed his confidence that his fans will love her work, and he believes that these fans are the ones who truly appreciate her as an artist. And that is why Maverick is my love letter specifically to them. 

He has a profound love and connection with his fans, which is why he desires to embark on this journey together with them. This time, he is expressing vulnerability through his music in a way that I will truly appreciate. When it comes to this album and its songs charting or gaining millions of streams, he might not place much importance on numbers. However, the primary concern and emphasis lies in providing his Day One fans with the same Kizz they have adored from the start and experienced alongside his growth as an artist. In any relationship, it is natural to hope that the other person will remain by your side as you grow and reveal different aspects of yourself. And that is what Kizz is currently doing.