KODEE (Agboluaje Thompson Fawaz Olaitan), formerly known as Colorful Boy, began carving his path in music as far back as 2023 with the release of his debut single “For You.” Before that, he had already begun catching attention online by sharing vibrant song covers across his social media platforms. This move has slowly built KODEE into a loyal audience. In 2024, he followed up with a trio of heartfelt tracks: “Orekelewa,” “In My Soul,” and “Ololufe,” all released simultaneously, showcasing his growth and musical range. But it was “Duro”, which was an infectious breakout single that truly catapulted him into the spotlight. The track recently made its debut on the Official Nigeria Top 100 chart at No. 92, marking KODEE’s first appearance and a defining moment in his career. The response to “Duro” has confirmed what his early listeners already suspected KODEE is one of the new generation's most promising voices, delivering music that feels like a romantic balm to the soul.

In an exclusive interview with TurnTable, KODEE opens up about his transition from Colorful Boy to KODEE, the journey of rebranding, what his musical experience has been like so far, and the story behind the hit single that’s putting him on the map.

TTC: Your journey started with indigenous rap battles across Lagos. How did those early experiences sharpen your voice and vision as KODEE today?

KODEE: It has helped me in terms of facing my fears. During those days of being a rapper, I used to get challenged and sometimes, I felt tense not because I couldn’t rap or I couldn’t battle them, but because of how people put pressure and fear in me by saying “This person you’re going to battle is the hardest of all time, has battled and won over 20 rappers” all sort of things that can make me want to forfeit it. Still, I did not, and I went for the rap battle and won. So, all those days, moments, and years have helped me grow more in confidence, how I carry my music, how I write, and have helped me believe in myself more.

TTC: When you transitioned from ‘Colourful Boy’ to ‘KODEE,’ what did that rebranding mean for you creatively and personally?

KODEE: It means coming out of my shell. It means inception, the beginning of my real version, and unleashing my true potential.

TTC: “Duro” feels like a defining moment. What story were you trying to tell with this record, and why was now the right time to tell it?

KODEE: Okay. At first, I wasn’t putting time into it cause it wasn’t a true life story. It was just me being creative with my writing, and I just wanted to make music that everyone could vibe and relate to.

TTC: Working with Boi Choke on “Duro,” what was the chemistry like in the studio, and how did you know the song was finished?

KODEE: Working with Boi Choke was a very good experience. I can't lie. It was our first time meeting, working, and recording that day. We ended up making three songs that day, but the beat for “Duro” didn't even start in our studio. He was already making the beat from home and didn't mean to give me the beat, but just to vibe to it. When he got here, he played the beat and asked if I liked it and could make something on it. God was so good, I fell in love with the beat and vibed to it while he was trying to complete and extend it. Boom, I had the melody, I wrote the song within a few minutes, and we recorded. When it got to the part where I said, “Ah oh my God”, I knew the song was done because usually for me, the second verse is never a problem for me once I get what I want for the hook, then the bridge or chorus’ second verse is the least.

TTC: You describe yourself as an “unserious lover boy,” but “Duro” carries emotional weight. How do you balance playful storytelling with vulnerability in your songwriting?

KODEE: To be very honest, I feel like it’s just what God gave me, and that’s why it’s called talent. I want to show you love, but at the same time, I want you to know I’m not a simp. I can be your lover, do anything for you, and still be so unserious or goofy. Just wanna love and have fun, so I put all that into making my music and then be creative with it. It's just me being me.

TTC: What role does your community—family, friends, your inner circle—play in your creative process and decision-making?

KODEE: They play a lot of important roles for real because one person cannot be called a team. My family helps a lot with prayers because they believe so much in me and my talent, and they share ideas when I’m planning to drop a song once I inform them. However, my whole team and “Rebirth Music” generally do a lot of work. I give them their flowers and appreciate their efforts.

TTC: Lagos is a city full of distractions and energy. What keeps you centered as you grow in the music industry?

KODEE: I’m the type of artiste that you can’t find everywhere. I’m always in my space, recording and trying to be creative with content and all. Anywhere you see me, just know it has to do with me working on my song or something about my career. I don’t put myself in a space to be distracted by anything, I mean sometimes distractions can come in different forms, but I pray and stay focused cause I know where I’m coming from and have a picture of where I’m going in my head, and that’s what matters.

TTC: If someone had never heard your music before, is “Duro” the track you’d want them to start with? Why or why not?

KODEE: A lot of new fans have now discovered me through “Duro”, even though I already have the community that grew with me from when I started doing covers. They all love that moment. Coming out with “Duro” after ghosting for over four months was surprising to them, and they loved it upon release. My news fans discovered me through “Duro”, and that’s the first song they heard from me. I’d recommend “Duro” as my first song for them to listen to because it’s a very catchy melody that’s capable of sticking to one’s memory. From there, we can go back and listen to the previous ones, too.

TTC: With “Duro” out now, what’s next for KODEE? Should more singles, a project, visuals, or something unexpected?

KODEE: Yes. Work is going on, so anticipate the visuals, more singles and projects, and of course, something unexpected. Thank you.