In an industry that can get easily oversaturated with several new acts and personalities,
Abimbola Ibirogba is emerging as a breath of fresh air, breathing new life on the scene as an
inventive songwriter. Since venturing into the Nigerian music scene, he is actively blazing a
new trail in the songwriting business amidst the hustle and bustle that engulfs the music
industry. His influence on records goes beyond the process of putting words together; he is
able to evoke emotions through skillful composition that aligns with the sonic experience his
producers and collaborators work to create.
While many artists take the limelight in front of the mic, Abimbola stands out because his
work elevates the status of his collaborators. He understands the dynamic of working in the
background, taking the subtle route, and allowing his work to shine through and speak for
itself. From Afrosoul records to upbeat pop songs that pulse with urgency, his range as a
songwriter is undeniable. His catalogue is stacked with great records collaborating with
promising and established artists, ranging from work with Atee Sole to Stovia, as well as
other artists within and outside the country, and this has positioned him as a key player in
the lyrical development of artists due to his work behind the scenes.
The songwriter extraordinaire is proof that the limelight is not all there is within music. Now
enjoying more recognition for his work, he remains grounded with an awareness of how far
he come but focused on what’s still ahead. In this interview, he speaks about his journey, the
beauty of creating for others, and what the future holds.
This interview is lightly edited for clarity.
You’re enjoying some more recognition in your work as a songwriter. Do you feel like
the hard work is paying off?
Abimbola Ibirogba: Absolutely. I’ve learned that visibility is a byproduct of consistent action in
this space. It’s been a long time coming — writing several versions of songs at ungodly
hours —and it’s gratifying to see that people are starting to notice and involve me more at
recording camps. I’m grateful but it’s not about being celebrated, for me. It’s about seeing
how the music I’ve helped shape connects with people. That’s when you know the work has
really paid off—when someone hears a song and it feels like theirs.
Does the new attention feel uncomfortable for you?
It’s not really strange, but it is certainly new. I’ve always been the person behind the scenes,
but stepping into the space where others can see me feels like I’m in the spotlight for a
change. Obviously I’m not as visible as most artists but things are changing. It’s normal to
experience new things, it means growth, right? I’m grateful and learning to embrace it,
learning to understand that I’m someone. I want the work to shine, and if my name gets
dragged into the light with it, then so be it.
When did you decide to get into music full time, writing others?
I’ve always loved music, I was the kid in secondary school that sat with headphones on,
rewinding sections of songs because I loved the way the artist delivered certain sections. I
started writing more as I got into university, mostly for fun, and then I realized I could turn
into something more substantial. It was natural for me because words and music are two
sides of the same coin.
How has the journey been so far? It seems like it gets overwhelming sometimes.
“Overwhelming” sounds about right. There are days when it feels like so many things are
happening in my brain and I can’t turn them off. But then there are moments of flow and
those make it all worth it. I’ve learned to lean into the dynamic nature of the music industry,
accepting those moments as part of the process. The journey’s been a mix of frustration,
discovery, and joy. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
What’s your favorite thing about writing music for others?
I just love the process of storytelling. When I write for someone else, I’m taking a dive into
their perspective, their emotions. It’s like stepping into someone’s shoes and trying to see
the world in the way that they do. It’s beautiful to help an artist articulate feelings they might
not have the words for. It’s like being a translator of emotions.
Would you make music of your own?
I get this question a lot actually, and the answer is a definite yes. I enjoy creating for others,
but I think it’s time to start putting out my own. I think there’s a time and space for everything,
and when I feel ready to tell my own story, I’ll do it in the best possible way.
What does 2024 hold for you?
It’s all about growth for me. 2024 is about pushing boundaries; collaborating with more
artists, experimenting with my own music, and stepping into new territories. I want to take my
craft to a new level, to challenge myself to make music that surprises even me.
What’s your creative process like? How long does it take you to come up with
records?
It varies. Some records come together in a matter of hours, almost like they were waiting to
be made. Others require patience and take a few days and even weeks sometimes. I just
have to keep chiseling away at it until the sculpture emerges. I prefer to start with a feeling or
emotion, a single note or lyric, and build from there. The process is always up and down, but
I’ve learned to trust it.
