Interview: BoyLexxy On His Childhood And Music Career

BoyLexxy, christened Ayomide Olanipekun is a rising Nigerian artiste looking to transform the music industry. Though he spent most of his childhood in Nigeria, the singer relocated to the United States in his teenage years in 2009. BoyLexxy decided to pursue his music career fully after briefly dabbling into content creation and science and tech-related courses. In 2019, he made his debut with Belinda and has since then, consistently delivered more singles over the years. In the wake of his latest track Kowole, we sat down with BoyLexxy to discuss his childhood, music and his future plans.

Before we discuss your music, I would love to talk to you about your childhood. What was your childhood like?

I am the first child and I have 2 younger brothers. My childhood was kind of rough. Living on the streets is not the most amazing experience. I grew up in Agege and my family moved to Ogba when things started getting better. 

Were you exposed to music growing up?

Yes, I was exposed to music while growing up. In the morning, my dad played Fuji music from King Wasiu. I also listened to Beautiful Nubia, 2Face Idibia and icons like that.

You relocated to the United States. How has it influenced your music?

I moved to the US in 2009 when I was about to get into SS1 in Nigeria. My relocation has influenced my sound because now, I can experience two different cultures; Hip-Hop and Afrobeats. My music is influenced by both cultures. 

Did you have a career in mind before music? 

Yes, I was once a YouTuber. I created content like playing video games like Call Of Duty live because It was a big thing when I moved to the States. I have a talent for drawing, and I was also into digital design. You know how African parents want you to be a lawyer or doctor? I got in to school to study Pharmacy but I wasn’t fully invested in it. I later switched to Computer Science and it wasn’t any better. I also tried Informatics which involves building websites and coding before I eventually took a break from school. I have been out of college for two years but I intend to go back to complete the 2 years left to get my Bachelors degree.

How did your parents take your decision to pursue music?

Right now, my mum supports my music but she still wants me to finish up at school and become a doctor. She has a mentality that people have to appear a certain way to be accepted. Back in Nigeria, we weren’t wealthy but everything changed when we moved to the States. I come from a pretty wealthy family now. My mum supports everything I do financially but she hasn’t seen results from the music yet, so she feels like a career in music is a scam. My dad has always loved music and he doesn’t care what I do as long as I make it.

Describe your music creation process

I make music when I am in the studio. It’s even better when I have ladies around me because I think of them as my A &R. I let the ladies listen to the music and tell me what they think. 

Crackermello produced Dangerous and Paid, how did that collaboration happen?

I met Cracker through a mutual friend and we linked up back in 2018. When he sent the beat for Dangerous, I was in love with this girl whom I thought was dangerous. I made a song about her, sent it to Cracker and he finished it up. 

How would you describe the type of music you make?

I feel like I make Afro vibe because most of the time when people listen to my sound, they say my song is a vibe. 

Who are your musical influences?

I have always been a big Wizkid fan because we are namesakes and Cancers. I love his music and sound. Another influence is Davido. I look up to him and I admire his hard work. I also appreciate Olamide because he is real. He helps people in the industry and he is genuine about it. 

What is your dream collaboration?

My dream collaboration is with Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy.

What are your long-term goals?

I plan to own my masters and own a record label, 5star general records. Someday, I want to be an independent artist and show people they can be in America and make Afrobeats music acceptable because it’s not easy. Performing at the Super Bowl and the World Cup is also on my list.

What’s next for you?

I’m working on my EP which is scheduled for next year. I’m also planning to release Kowole remix with Mayorkun who I am currently in touch. Other songs I have been working on are with Teni, Asake, and 1da Banton.