Before the viral streams, label deals, and big-name collaborations, KOHDEE was that Abuja kid writing party songs in secondary school and searching for something real. Born Ogechukwu Otu and raised by a gospel-singing mother, he’s always known that music was more than a hobby. It was home to him. Life had its turns. Years later, after a near-fatal car crash, a degree in Information Technology, and the long road of independent grind, KOHDEE’s sound is expanding and telling tales so deep and relatable. Like good things that take their time, KOHDEE grew into his sound with patience and soul.
He started out with ‘The Link’ EP to his 2024 solo EP, ‘SWEET KARMA’ and then, standout moments like “Mexebu” with The Cavemen, and the Tekno-assisted “Go Well,” his trajectory has been way above the ordinary. Now, with the massive success of “Zaza” alongside ODUMODUBLVCK and the introspective “CRAZY WORLD” heating up 2025, the Troniq Music act is proving that he’s far more than just another ‘lover boy’ in the scene.
When KOHDEE decides to look back to the days of the beginning, it’s beautiful to see how far he’s come, and how much more he’s still set to become.
TTC: You started writing and producing music in secondary school thanks to a friend who rapped and produced. Do you remember the first song you ever made? What was it about?
KOHDEE: Yeah, I do. It was actually a party “bad boy” song. Typical teenage vibes, fast life, girls, flexing. Honestly, it was pretty reckless, but that’s what made it fun. It wasn’t super deep, but it sparked my passion for making music. I still believe music should be allowed to be reckless sometimes. People are too sensitive these days.
TTC: You studied Information Technology at Eastern Mediterranean University in Cyprus. Was there ever a moment you thought music might take a backseat to tech or were you always set on chasing this dream?
KOHDEE: I took two years to decide what to study because I knew music was never going to take a backseat. I wanted to make sure I chose something I genuinely had an interest in alongside music. I think people who give up their real passion just because of fear or society’s expectations end up miserable. Tech was just my way of playing the game, but music was the goal.
TTC: Your music weaves through themes of love, heartbreak, inspiration, and celebration. How do you find the balance between vulnerability and vibes in your songwriting?
KOHDEE: It actually comes naturally. That’s why I never force myself to create. However, I’m feeling at any particular time is what comes out in my music. Some days it’s happy songs, other days it’s love songs or deep reflections. I just let it flow and stay true to my emotions.
TTC: You’ve mentioned being inspired by Burna Boy, Drake, and Fela Kuti. What is it about their styles or stories that resonates with you personally?
KOHDEE: Each of them has a unique way of blending authenticity with artistry. Burna Boy has this fearless energy and African pride that I admire. Drake is versatile; he’s not afraid to be vulnerable or experimental. And Fela Kuti was a revolutionary whose music carried powerful messages and rhythm that transcended entertainment. They all remind me that music can be personal, political, and global at the same time.
TTC: Your debut EP, The Link, featured 1da Banton, and “Mexebu” with The Cavemen was a standout collaboration. How did those features come together, and what did you take away from working with those artistes? ****
KOHDEE: It was an amazing opportunity for me to work with such talented artistes. They made it so easy and effortless. Since then, I’ve learned not to stress about collaborations. I approach them chasing the same vibe, smooth, effortless energy. If it’s not that, then it’s probably not meant to be.
TTC: You officially joined Troniq Music before dropping “Mr. Fantastic” and “Go Well” with Tekno. How has being part of the Troniq family influenced your creative direction?
KOHDEE: They support my vision and give me the space and freedom to bring it to life. It’s a partnership where I still feel in control of my creativity.
TTC: Let’s talk about “Zaza” with ODUMODUBLVCK. That song blew up and brought a whole new energy to your discography. What made that collaboration click?
KOHDEE: It was the right people with the right sound, divine alignment, and pure intention. ODUMODUBLVCK didn’t just drop a verse and bounce. He carried the whole promo like it was his own project. A lot of artistes won’t do that. ODUMO’s real. His fans embraced the song like it was his own and that made a massive difference. Again, it was effortless because it was meant to be.
TTC: You followed up “Zaza” with “CRAZY WORLD,” which fans are already calling “the next big thing.” What’s the message behind the track, and what kind of headspace were you in when recording it?
KOHDEE: “CRAZY WORLD” is a reflection of the chaos and contradictions we face in life, a world full of sin, pressure, betrayal, and uncertainty. But beyond all that, it’s about perseverance, resilience, and staying grounded in your energy and purpose. The inspiration actually started unexpectedly from a dance video I saw on TikTok. The raw, expressive movements reminded me that even in the middle of struggle, there’s beauty, emotion, and life. That energy became the heartbeat of this record.
TTC: You’ve shown versatility not just as a singer but as a producer, mixer, and songwriter. What’s your typical studio process like? Do you prefer working alone or with a team?
KOHDEE: I enjoy working with people because it’s a chance to learn and be exposed to new ideas, but when it’s time to lock in, I prefer being alone. No distractions. The real magic happens when it’s just me and the music.
TTC: What part of your musical identity do you think fans still don’t know enough about but will come to see soon?
KOHDEE: I’m very unpredictable. I don’t always know what to expect from myself creatively because I’m constantly evolving and I love to surprise myself. Also, my stage performance is a big part of who I am as an artiste. There’s a whole layer of entertainment and energy that fans are going to see a lot more of.
TTC: If you could send a message to the younger KOHDEE, the boy in Abuja who just started writing his first song, what would you tell him?
KOHDEE: I’d tell him: “Ignore everyone who tries to put you in a box. Don’t try to be ‘humble’ for people who secretly want you to fail. Be bold. Be controversial if you need to be. Your music will reach who it’s meant to reach. And never water yourself down to make people comfortable. Stay true to your voice, and don’t be afraid to be different. Everything you’re dreaming of is possible and even bigger than you can imagine. Just keep going”.