A rap artiste, Idowu Steven aka SteeveBars has opened up on the challenges of working as an independent artiste in the music industry. Speaking in an interview with Saturday Beats, he said, “Being independent is highly challenging, but it has its benefits in the long run. The pace is slow but like they say…slow and steady wins the race.”
Steevebars expressed concern over the marginalisation of rap music in Nigeria, noting that many talented rappers struggle to find their footing.
For Steevebars, music serves as a vital outlet for self-expression. His style leans towards melancholic tunes, which he feels allow for deeper emotional expression. “I’ve got a lot bottled inside me and music is the only way I could get it out without prejudice. My type of rap is more of the melancholic tunes, it allows me to express myself greatly,” he explained.
The rapper also revealed a time when he attempted to shift his musical style from rap to Afrobeats in hopes of securing record deals. “The moment they hear your works, they’ll admit you’re talented but because you’re a rapper. They won’t want to invest in you except you’re willing to change your style which I once tried but I failed woefully at making commercial danceable records.”
Reflecting on his journey, Steevebars highlighted several career milestones. “I have been able to put out seven bodies of work as an independent hip-hop artiste and producer and I have won a series of rap battle competitions. From victories at industry nights then at oriental, to Cool FM Naija playlist competitions which got me my first placement on Wazobia FM then.
“But, I think the major highlight for me is actually making money from my hard work as an independent artiste without major support. That’s incredible to me and I am grateful to God for that. It’s beyond me.”
