Fuji music is a Nigerian staple. Some Nigerian pop stars such as Olamide, Asake and Seyi Vibez make music that’s a hybrid of afrobeats, hip-hop and fuji, but the budding artistes don’t have to dilute Fuji with disco to become legends. You can focus on just Fuji music. This is the guide you need.

Have a unique name

You can’t go wrong with something strong and catchy as a stage name in Fuji music. Here’s an easy formula: use your nickname or merge it with your first name. E.g. Saheed Osupa, Taiye Currency Ayinde Barrister and Ayinde Kollington. I hope your name is not Wasiu or Ayinde sha, before people call you an impersonator.

Mention it every minute

You need to constantly drop your full government and nickname while singing. If you’re not doing that, you’re not ready for the world to know your name.

Have street credibility

If you haven’t served some time in the streets, your Fuji musician status is “learner.” The fastest and surest way is either to get four-year experience as a NURTW member or work as a freelance bus conductor. 

Form your band

Assemble the best drummers, backup vocalists, keyboardist and a hypeman with a baritone. Then get an official fabric seller who’ll constantly supply the band the best ankara and lace fabrics. Alternatively, the uniform can be polo shirts and facecaps with the band name printed on. Everyone should look flyer than Barrister and boys in 1989.

Learn praise-singing

Scam people into spraying you all their money with your high praises. If you can make people’s heads swell with your music, it’ll take you far and they’ll call you to the next ceremony in your hood. You better learn it so you can secure the Fuji bag.

Do you know any proverbs?

Whether you’re motivating, making social commentary or throwing words like stones, you must be clever with your figures of speech and best not miss.

Have a photographic memory

Imagine the embarrassment if you forget the name of the person who’s spraying you money halfway through your set? All it takes is one fuck up, and your whole reputation is out the window.

Add your abroad experiences to the music

How else do we know you’re spreading the gospel of fuji across the globe? You need to travel and then come back to give us your London Experience Vol. 1 – 5 or Amsterdam Tour part one and two, to certify your legend status.

READ: The Zikoko Guide: Nigerian Music Industry 101

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