Bolaji Odojukan, known as BOJ, is a Nigerian-English singer, songwriter, and record producer. Born on April 22, 1994, in London, he is a key figure in the alté music scene. As one-third of the group DRB LasGidi, alongside TeeZee and Fresh L, BOJ has helped shape alternative Nigerian music. His music blends Afrobeats, dancehall, reggae, hip-hop, and R&B. This fusion has made him a trailblazer in the Nigerian music industry.
Early Life and Education
BOJ was born in London but raised in both the UK and Nigeria. His parents influenced his music taste. They played records by artists like Lauryn Hill, Lagbaja, and Wyclef. While attending Malvern College in England, BOJ started making music in Year 9 (JSS 3). After graduating, he returned to Lagos in 2015 to pursue music. He studied Business Management and Audio Engineering at university before fully dedicating himself to music.
Career Of BOJ Beginnings with DRB LasGidi
BOJ formed DRB LasGidi in 2007 with his school friends TeeZee and Fresh L. The group’s unique sound helped them gain recognition in the Nigerian music scene. BOJ released his first solo mixtape, #BOTM, in 2014. The mixtape included the hit single “Bolaji On The Microphone,” which won the Best Alternative Song award at the 2014 Headies.
In 2016, BOJ signed with HF Music and released his debut album, Magic, in 2017. The album received praise for its fresh sound. Over the years, BOJ continued to collaborate with artists and release successful projects, including Make E No Cause Fight (2018) and Make E No Cause Fight 2 (2019) with Ajebutter22 and Falz.
Major BOJ Releases and Collaborations
BOJ’s career reached new heights with a series of successful releases. In 2018, he was featured in the Smooth Taste, That’s Why campaign by Jameson Irish Whiskey. He also signed a publishing and distribution deal with MOVES Recordings, releasing Your Love (Mogbe) in 2019, featuring Tiwa Savage.
In 2020, BOJ released the hit single “Abracadabra,” featuring Davido and Mr Eazi. Later, in 2021, he released Money & Laughter, collaborating with Zamir and Amaarae. BOJ also featured on Dave’s album We’re All Alone in This Together, contributing to the track “Lazarus.”
In 2022, He dropped Gbagada Express, his highly anticipated album. The album featured several notable artists, including Wizkid, Fireboy DML, Tiwa Savage, and Buju. The album received positive reviews for its creative sound and fusion of genres.
Artistry and Influence
BOJ’S music blends several genres, including Afrobeats, dancehall, reggae, hip-hop, and alternative R&B. He is widely regarded as a pioneer of the alté genre. The term “alté” was coined by Him in his 2014 song “Paper.” Alté represents freedom of expression without limits. It emphasizes creativity in music, fashion, and lifestyle.
Influenced by artists like Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean, Fela Kuti, and Bob Marley, BOJ’s music defies conventional norms. He believes in the freedom to express oneself creatively, which has set him apart in the industry.
What’s Next for BOJ?
BOJ continues to push boundaries with his music. He is widely respected for his unique sound and genre-blending approach. Fans eagerly await his next project, knowing that BOJ will continue to break new ground in Nigerian music.
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