In a music landscape saturated with social media presence and personal branding, the anonymous artist known as Prestige chooses a different path. “Staying anonymous might not be the best choice when growing a brand like this one,” he admits, reflecting on the pressures that come with fame. “But many artists I love seem to have managed this in some way,” he points out, drawing comparisons to icons like Daft Punk and Sia, who have carved out successful careers while maintaining a sense of mystery. For Prestige, the allure of anonymity allows listeners to focus on the music rather than the persona. “I’d prefer if people concentrated more on my music than on me,” he laughs, acknowledging the delicate balance between artistry and public scrutiny.
The name “Prestige” itself embodies a sense of honor and excellence. Raised in a multicultural environment as a Nigerian with British-Nigerian heritage, Prestige was influenced by a diverse array of musical legends, a reflection of his mother’s taste for the classics. From Frank Sinatra to Fela Kuti, his eclectic taste has shaped his ambition to create music that resonates with a sense of dignity and quality. “Those guys did it with a lot of Prestige, don’t you think? That’s what I want to do with my music,” he asserts, highlighting his desire to honor the legacy of his influences while forging his own path.
Musical Journey and Style
When asked about his connection to the Afropop genre, Prestige emphasizes its flexibility. “Afropop just makes it easier to make songs that aren’t just dance,” he explains, noting his admiration for contemporary Afrobeats artists like Burna Boy and Tems. Yet, he resists being pigeonholed into a single genre. “I don’t want to be labeled as an Afropop musician,” he insists, sharing that he has explored various styles, from R&B to even country music. “Good music is good music, you know?”
Prestige’s creative process is deeply rooted in the socio-economic realities of Nigeria. “I wanted to make an album that reflects the common everyday problems we all face,” he shares, underscoring the resilience and spirit of his people in the face of adversity. “Nigeria isn’t just its problems. We are a pretty fun people too,” he adds, highlighting the duality of struggle and joy in his music. Songs like “Plenty Problem” encapsulate this sentiment, addressing the hardships while also inviting listeners to find humor in their circumstances.
Connection with the Audience
In maintaining his anonymity, Prestige seeks to connect with audiences through the universal themes in his lyrics. “There’s a little bit of me and my story in every song I write,” he explains, emphasizing the power of music to transcend personal identity. He recognizes the importance of platforms like YouTube in amplifying his voice. “When you don’t have the kind of funding to push this stuff, social media plays a major role,” he notes, highlighting the vital support systems available for emerging artists.
Industry and Legacy
In a vibrant and competitive Afropop and Afrobeats scene, Prestige remains humble about his place within it. “I don’t think it’s necessary to make those kinds of distinctions. I’ll do me and you can do you,” he states, advocating for individual authenticity amidst a crowded landscape. He hopes listeners will associate the Prestige brand with timeless quality. “Good music. The kind that when you hear years from now, you say, oh, I loved that song,” he expresses, revealing his aspiration to create lasting impact.
As for his legacy, Prestige embraces the unpredictability of his artistic journey. “I tend to just write and sing what is in my head,” he admits. “As for my legacy, I think you want your music to touch people. To make them smile. And maybe, God willing, even inspire someone someday to do something better than you did.” With his debut project on the horizon, Prestige stands ready to share his story, inviting listeners to join him on this exciting journey of discovery and expression.
LISTEN TO PRESTIGE’S PLENTY PROBLEM NOW! Available now on Apple Music, Spotify, Deezer, Youtube Music, and more.
