Monaky: Bringing Authenticity and Storytelling to Afrobeats

_In a time when Afrobeats' music is somewhat formulaic and repetitive, Monaky stands out as one of the few peculiar voices. He broke onto the scene in 2021 with “The Goat”, a sleeper hit that drew a comparison to Afrobeats' front-runner Burna Boy.__He followed up with “The Suitor'', quelling all doubts that the comparison to one of the Afrobeats’ greatest exports was farfetched. While there are obvious similarities, Monaky's music is original and authentic.

Drawing influence from the Afrobeat originator himself, Fela, and the everyday Nigerian story, Monaky’s music is a variant of Afrobeats that is rich in storytelling, making it as enjoyable as it is relatable. After a year-long hiatus, Monaky is back with his debut album, which he calls "Patient Zero". For him, "Patient Zero'' tells the story of the average Nigerian youth trying to make his way up.__ In this exclusive interview with TurnTable, Monaky talks about his music, making "Patient Zero" and his future aspirations._

TTC: Rising to Stardom and the "Patient Zero" Journey

_Monaky's meteoric rise in the music scene is evident with his debut album, "Patient Zero". When asked about his journey, Monaky reflects on the excitement and challenges that have marked his path.

_Monaky: It’s been an exciting but challenging journey. I just love making music and putting my sound out there, and I’m really thankful that a lot of music lovers out there connect with my sound. There’s still a whole lot more to do, but I appreciate the progress so far.

TTC: Crafting a Unique Sound in Nigerian Music

_Monaky's music is often hailed as a unique blend of traditional Afrobeat and modern Afropop. When asked about his sound, he refuses to be pigeonholed.

_Monaky: I wouldn’t put a “tag” on it per se, like you’ve noticed I fuse a couple of sounds that have inspired me throughout my life thus far to arrive at this unique blend that's “my sound” and what people perceive to be distinct. It’s just me expressing myself in the purest form, I love creating and telling stories, and I channel that art into my music.

TTC: Resisting the Pressure to Conform

_In an industry where conformity is often encouraged, Monaky has stayed true to his artistic vision.

_Monaky: Yes, I have [faced pressure], but it’s not something I would do. I love making music my way, and I love that people connect with that, and that’s what matters to me.

TTC: Unpacking "Patient Zero"

_Monaky's debut album, "Patient Zero", is a testament to his commitment to authenticity and storytelling. He discusses the meaning behind the album.

_Monaky: Authenticity and storytelling. It expresses what it feels like to be an average Nigerian trying to make it from the bottom to the top.

TTC: The Creative Process Behind "Patient Zero"

_Taking a year-long hiatus to craft his debut album, Monaky gives us a glimpse into the creative process.

_Monaky: I was just trying to make sure I got it right. I’ve been recording a lot over that one year, and when it all came together, I just knew this was it, this is “Patient Zero”. It was time to give it to the world.

TTC: Aspirations and Collaborations

_Monaky's goals for "Patient Zero" are clear - to connect with more music lovers worldwide. When it comes to collaborations, it's not about mainstream appeal for him.

_Monaky: It was deliberate for me to only work with people that match my artistry. I like working with people I connect with. So for me, “mainstream” isn’t the major factor I consider when looking to collaborate. It’s the connection and artistry I look out for.

TTC: Reception and Future Endeavors

_The reception to "Patient Zero" has been overwhelmingly positive, and Monaky is excited about the love and praise it has received.

_Monaky: It’s been amazing so far, I’ve been showered with lots of love and praise. Glad to see people love and connect with the album.

TTC: Dream Collaborations and Inspirations

_Monaky shares his dream collaborations and what inspires him, including the constant comparison to Burna Boy.

_Monaky: Burna Boy & Young Bleu because of their artistry and voice texture. I like how unique they sound and how they make music.

TTC: The Burna Boy Comparison

_Being compared to one of Afrobeats' finest artists, Burna Boy, is both flattering and motivating for Monaky.

_Monaky: Yeah, I’m flattered. I get that a lot, and it inspires me to push myself further, you know, with respect to my art. I’m always looking to grow and do more.

TTC: Taking the Monaky Sound Global

_Afrobeats is making its mark on the world stage, and Monaky has plans to join the global conversation.

_Monaky: First things first, as you can tell I’m very particular about the quality of music I put out. I’m on the lookout to take that to the next level with the right partnerships. But for now, I’m just focused on staying consistent with putting out more music.

TTC: The Future Holds More Music

_Monaky promises his fans more music and a consistent presence in the music scene.

_Monaky: Expect more music from me, I’m fully back now, no more breaks (laughs). You will be seeing more of me and my music. I have a whole lot in store for you guys, so be on the lookout.