African Music News: Exclusive Interview With Tez Pushay (2024)

In the vibrant realm of Nigerian music, emerging rapper Tez Pushay has been making waves with his lighthearted Afrobeat-infused sound. His latest single, ‘Flex,’ showcases his self-produced talent, bringing a warm and inviting vibe that keeps listeners coming back for more. With an easygoing flow and captivating R&B hooks, Tez Pushay shares his life experiences […]

In the vibrant realm of Nigerian music, emerging rapper Tez Pushay has been making waves with his lighthearted Afrobeat-infused sound. His latest single, ‘Flex,’ showcases his self-produced talent, bringing a warm and inviting vibe that keeps listeners coming back for more. With an easygoing flow and captivating R&B hooks, Tez Pushay shares his life experiences […]

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Jun 17, 2023 - 03:42
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Exclusive Interview With Tez Pushay

In the vibrant realm of Nigerian music, emerging rapper Tez Pushay has been making waves with his lighthearted Afrobeat-infused sound. His latest single, ‘Flex,’ showcases his self-produced talent, bringing a warm and inviting vibe that keeps listeners coming back for more. With an easygoing flow and captivating R&B hooks, Tez Pushay shares his life experiences and expresses gratitude through his music. Accompanied by a cheerful music video that takes us from the streets of London to lively city parties, ‘Flex’ is the laidback hip hop track you need to kickstart your summer playlist.

Tez Pushay’s love for the arts and the rich cultural heritage of his hometown, Benin City, Nigeria, has been a driving force in shaping his musical path. The prominent sounds of traditional African music have captivated him since his early years. It was during a fateful visit to the renowned recording studio, ‘Redlight Productions,’ that Tez Pushay’s journey into music production took flight. Inspired by influential artists like Plantashun Boiz, Ruggedy Baba, MI, as well as international icons such as Snoop Dogg, Dre, and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Tez Pushay experimented with diverse musical influences, leading to the creation of his unique sound.

While music has always been a passion for Tez Pushay, his artistic pursuits have taken interesting twists and turns alongside his career in the medical field. Balancing his love for both music and medicine, Tez Pushay has dedicated himself to sharing his passions with the world. In late 2022, he made an impressive debut with his single, ‘Show Me Your Love,’ showcasing his potential as a rising talent. As Tez Pushay continues to build his brand and artistic identity, he is poised for a bright and promising future in the music industry.

With each release, Tez Pushay is carving out a distinct niche for himself within the Nigerian music scene. Drawing inspiration from his cultural roots and an eclectic mix of musical influences, he brings a refreshing perspective to the genre. As Tez Pushay’s fan base grows, his unwavering dedication to his craft and his willingness to experiment ensures that there are exciting things on the horizon. Stay tuned as we delve into the mind of Tez Pushay in an exclusive interview, where we uncover more about his artistic journey, his creative process, and what lies ahead for this dynamic rapper.

Check out the exclusive interview we had with Tez Pushay, where we’ll dive deeper into his music, inspirations, and future plans

STREAM “FLEX” BY ASHLEY ANNE BELOW

Your latest single ‘Flex’ has a laidback Afrobeat vibe to it, can you walk us through the production process and the inspiration behind the track?

Absolutely! As the sole producer of “Flex,” I had the pleasure of collaborating with a talented sound engineer to bring my vision to life. The production process was a labour of love, where we meticulously crafted each element of the track to achieve the desired laidback Afrobeat vibe. Inspired by my personal experiences and the desire to create a song that exudes self-confidence and celebrates life, I worked closely with the sound engineer to ensure every beat, melody, and hook aligned with my vision.

Together, we fine-tuned the rhythmic beats, added melodic elements, and perfected the catchy hooks that make “Flex” so infectious. It was a collaborative effort, with the sound engineer bringing technical expertise and my creative direction guiding the overall sound. The result is a track that showcases my unique production style while delivering the laidback and uplifting Afrobeat vibe that defines “Flex.”In the music video for “Flex,” we see you in various settings, from the streets of London to a lively party in the city. What was the inspiration behind the visuals, and how did you go about creating the concept for the video?

The inspiration behind the visuals for the “Flex” music video was to capture the vibrant and energetic essence of the song. We wanted to showcase different settings that reflect the diverse experiences and atmospheres associated with the track. The concept for the video was created through collaborative brainstorming sessions, where we explored ideas that would complement the lyrics and the overall vibe of the song. We aimed to capture the essence of the city, its streets, and the lively party scene that aligns with the message of the song.

Working closely with a talented team of directors and creatives, we meticulously planned each scene to ensure it resonated with the lyrics and brought the track to life visually. The result is a visually captivating music video that captures the energy and excitement of “Flex” while providing a glimpse into different settings that enhance the overall narrative of the song.

As someone who has been delving in and out of music and the medical field, how do you balance these two passions in your life, and how do they influence each other creatively?

Balancing my passions for both music and the medical field has been an ongoing journey for me. While they may seem like contrasting fields, they complement each other in unique ways. The medical field requires discipline, dedication, and attention to detail, which I bring into my music career. On the other hand, music allows me to express my creativity and bring joy to others, which serves as a source of inspiration and fulfillment in my medical profession.

Finding the balance between the two has required effective time management and prioritization. I have learned to allocate dedicated time for both pursuits and ensure that I give each the attention it deserves. It’s about setting clear boundaries and being fully present in the respective roles I undertake.

Interestingly, my experiences in the medical field often influence my creative process. It provides me with unique perspectives and insights into human emotions and experiences. These observations find their way into my lyrics and musical themes, adding depth and authenticity to my music. Additionally, my passion for music acts as a form of stress relief and allows me to unwind from the demands of the medical field, making me a more well-rounded individual overall.

Overall, balancing my passion for music and my career in the medical field has been a fulfilling and enriching journey. It’s about embracing both aspects of my life and allowing them to influence and inspire each other, creating a harmonious blend that fuels my creative expression and personal growth.

You have also mentioned that your hometown and culturally rich Benin city played a significant role in your fascination for the arts. Can you tell us more about how your Nigerian heritage has influenced your music and the stories you share through it?

My Nigerian heritage, particularly my hometown of Benin City, has had a profound influence on my music and the stories I share through it. Nigeria, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant music scene, has provided a rich tapestry of inspiration for my creative journey.

Growing up surrounded by Nigerian music and immersed in the diverse sounds of Afrobeat, highlife, juju, and traditional folk music, I developed a deep appreciation for the rhythmic patterns, melodic structures, and storytelling elements inherent in these genres. These influences naturally find their way into my music, shaping the rhythms, melodies, and overall soundscapes I create.

Moreover, my Nigerian heritage has instilled in me a sense of pride and cultural identity, which I strive to reflect in my music. I use my platform to celebrate Nigerian culture, to shed light on important societal issues, and to share stories that resonate with the experiences and struggles faced by Nigerians and Africans as a whole. Through my music, I aim to bridge cultural gaps, promote unity, and inspire listeners to embrace their heritage while also appreciating the diversity of our global community.

Nigeria is a country with a rich history and a vibrant present, and I feel a responsibility to represent and contribute to its musical landscape. The stories I share in my music often touch upon themes of resilience, love, cultural identity, and the pursuit of dreams. By infusing elements of my Nigerian heritage, I hope to create a sonic experience that not only entertains but also connects with people on a deeper level, fostering a sense of pride and unity within the listener.

You mentioned that you experimented with your vast range of musical influences, including Snoop Dogg, Dre, and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. How have these artists influenced your music, and what elements of their style have you incorporated into your own sound?

Artists like Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony have greatly influenced my music and shaped my own sound. Snoop Dogg’s laidback delivery and storytelling, Dr. Dre’s emphasis on sonic quality and attention to detail, and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s melodic style and harmonies have all made a significant impact on my creative journey.

Snoop Dogg’s coolness and confident flow have inspired my writing and performance style. Dr. Dre’s meticulous approach to production has influenced me to strive for excellence in my own music. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s melodic sensibilities and harmonies have allowed me to explore blending rap and singing, adding layers and depth to my songs.

These artists have not only influenced my technical skills as a rapper and producer but have also shaped my creative vision. They’ve taught me the importance of authenticity, storytelling, and pushing boundaries within the genre. While drawing inspiration from them, I always strive to incorporate these influences in a way that is uniquely my own, creating a sound that reflects my individuality and personal experiences.

Ultimately, Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony have played a significant role in my musical journey, shaping my flow, production approach, and overall artistic direction. Their influence has propelled me to constantly evolve and innovate within the hip-hop genre while staying true to my own creative voice.

Your debut single ‘Show Me Your Love’ showed an impressive potential in your career as a rapper. Can you tell us about your creative process when it comes to writing and producing music?

Thank you for your kind words about my debut single ‘Show Me Your Love.’ When it comes to my creative process, it starts with a spark of inspiration or an idea that resonates with me. I brainstorm ideas and jot down lyrics or phrases that capture the essence of the concept I want to convey. I draw inspiration from personal experiences, observations, and the world around me to create authentic and honest lyrics.

Once I have a foundation of lyrics, I focus on crafting the flow and structure of the song. I experiment with different rhyme schemes, cadences, and wordplay to create a dynamic and engaging delivery. I pay close attention to the rhythm and musicality of the words, ensuring they align with the beat and enhance the overall sonic experience.

Moving on to the production process, I collaborate closely with a sound engineer. Together, we select the right instrumentals, refine sound elements, and fine-tune the overall mix. I aim to create a sonic landscape that complements the mood and message of the song, paying attention to the arrangement, sound textures, and overall production quality.

Throughout the entire process, I remain open to experimentation and allow room for creative exploration. I embrace the organic growth and transformation of ideas during the production stage. Finding the right balance between precision and artistic expression is crucial, ensuring that each element serves the overall vision of the song. 

How do you see your music evolving in the future, and what goals do you hope to achieve in your career?

As an artist, I envision my music evolving in exciting ways in the future. I believe in constant growth, pushing boundaries, and staying true to my creative vision. Refining my sound, exploring new styles, and evolving as a rapper and producer are key aspects of this journey.

One of my primary goals is to connect with a broader audience and share my music worldwide. I aspire to create a catalog of songs that deeply resonate with listeners, touching their emotions and leaving a lasting impact. Through my music, I aim to inspire and uplift others, spreading messages of positivity and authenticity.

Collaboration is also essential to my artistic aspirations. Working with talented artists and producers who share my vision allows for the fusion of diverse styles and perspectives, resulting in fresh and unique musical experiences. I look forward to engaging in fruitful collaborations that bring out the best in me creatively.

Additionally, I have a strong desire to perform my music on stages across the globe. Live performances provide a platform to establish a deeper connection with fans, sharing the energy and passion of my music in a memorable way. I strive to create unforgettable experiences that resonate with audiences.

Ultimately, my overarching goal is to make a meaningful contribution to the music industry and leave a legacy. I aim to continually grow as an artist, reach new heights, and create music that withstands the test of time.

I am excited about the future and the opportunities it holds for me as an artist. With dedication, hard work, and a commitment to artistic excellence, I am confident in achieving my goals and making a lasting impact through my music.

What can fans expect from Tez Pushay in the future? Any upcoming projects or collaborations we can look forward to?

Fans can expect an exciting journey ahead as I continue to create and release new music. I am constantly working on new projects and exploring collaborations to bring fresh sounds and experiences to my listeners.

Regarding upcoming projects, I’m currently working on several exciting endeavors that I can’t reveal specific details about just yet. However, I have an upcoming release, out June 16th, titled “so beautiful”. I assure you this project will showcase my growth as an artist and my commitment to pushing creative boundaries.

To stay updated on all the latest news and announcements, I encourage everyone to follow me on my social media platforms and official channels. It’s through these channels that I’ll be sharing information about upcoming releases, projects, and collaborations.

I deeply appreciate the support of my fans, and I’m excited to share this musical journey with each one of you. Keep an eye out for the exciting things to come!

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