Marcel Akunwata, better known as Blaise Beatz, stands as a renowned Nigerian music producer and composer who has left an indelible mark on the Afro Beats and Afro Pop genres. His journey into music began in 2006, and since then, he has risen swiftly through the ranks, garnering quite a good number of awards and nominations, including the most coveted Grammy Awards nomination, earning him a distinguished place within the Nigerian music industry.
Early Life and Educational Background
Blaise Beatz’s educational journey started in Niger state, where he completed his primary and secondary schooling. It was during this period that he first encountered musical instruments, igniting a profound passion for sound and rhythm within him. After completing high school, he pursued higher education at the Federal University of Technology in Minna, where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Statistics. This academic phase not only laid a solid foundation for his career but also provided the groundwork for his entry into the world of music production. During his university days, he set up personal studios dedicated to exploring musical production, a pivotal step that would shape his future as one of Nigeria’s most respected record producers and songwriters.
Career Highlights
Blaise Beatz’s professional journey soared when he entered the music production industry in 2006. Known as Blaise Beatz to his fans, he has collaborated with a stellar lineup of Nigerian artists, including Wizkid, Davido, Asake, Rema, Buju, Kizz Daniel, Adekunle Gold, Tekno, and Tiwa Savage, earning him an esteemed reputation.
Some of his notable production credits encompass:
- “Call Me Every Day” by Chris Brown featuring Wizkid
- Tracks like “Feel,” “Godfather,” “For the Road” from Davido’s “Timeless Album”
- Asake’s hits such as “2:30,” “Lonely at the Top,” and “Sunshine” from the “Work of Art Album”
- DJ Tunez’s chart-topper “PAMI” featuring Wizkid, Omah Lay, and Adekunle Gold
- Adekunle Gold’s soulful tracks like “Sinner,” “It Is What It Is,” “Mercy” and captivating “Ogaranya”
- Kiss Daniel’s energetic Afrobeat collaboration titled “Buga” also “Cough,” “RTID,” and many more from the Maverick album
- 1da Banton’s irresistible groovy track “No Wahala”
- Rema’s beautiful track “Holiday”
- DJ Spinall’s “Loju” featuring Wizkid
- Tiwa Savage’s catchy “Pick Up”
- Buju’s infectious hits “Outside,” “Testimony,” and “In My Mind”
Notable Collaborations
Blaise Beatz has formed influential partnerships with a diverse array of artists, lending his exceptional production expertise to several chart-topping tracks in the Nigerian music industry. His work with DJ Tunez’s “PAMI,” was widely accepted, known for its infectious beats, and Tekno’s “Enjoy,” celebrated for its catchy melody and danceable rhythm, stand as prime examples. Teni’s mesmerizing “Lanke”, Tracks from Davido’s “Timeless Album” and Adekunle Gold’s hits “Sinner,” “It Is What It Is,” and “Ogaranya” exhibit Blaise Beatz’s versatility in creating soulful melodies. Kizz Daniel’s Afrobeat collaboration “Buga” showcases the impact he has made on Afro-pop genres, following up with Cough (Odo), Asake’s smashing global hit “Lonely at the Top” and “No Wahala” by 1da Banton is an irresistible groovy track highlighting his influence.
Musical Style and Signature Sound
Blaise Beatz’s music production transcends boundaries, seamlessly navigating genres such as Afrobeats, Afro-Pop, Dancehall, and Amapiano. His productions are characterized by infectious rhythms that compel listeners to dance. Blaise Beatz is renowned for incorporating his signature tag “OBAH“ into his productions, a trademark that has made him instantly recognizable in the industry. He has even earned the moniker “King of Afrosoul” from some music journalists. At the core of his work lies meticulous attention to detail in arrangement, mixing, and mastering. His collaborations with artists demonstrate his innate ability to understand their vision while elevating it to global appeal. Blaise Beatz’s signature sound has become synonymous with the contemporary African music scene, shaping its style today.
Impact on Nigerian Music
Blaise Beatz’s profound impact on the Nigerian music scene is a testament to his versatile production style and remarkable catalog of chart-topping hits. With a natural ability to seamlessly blend Afro Beats, Afro Pop, Dancehall, and Amapiano genres, he has expanded the industry’s horizons, captivating audiences both locally and globally. His collaborations with international artists, including the likes of Chris Brown, underscore the increasing global popularity of Nigerian music.
Yet, Blaise Beatz’s influence extends beyond individual tracks; he has played a pivotal role in shaping the contemporary soundscape of Nigerian music. His ability to craft infectious rhythms and melodies has not only elevated individual artists but has also contributed to the evolution of the entire industry.
Awards and Nominations
Blaise Beatz’s exceptional talent in the music industry has garnered him a slew of prestigious awards and nominations, a testament to his remarkable contributions to the field. His notable accolades include:
- A Grammy nomination, solidifying his status as a producer of international acclaim.
- Nominations for Music Producer of the Year at City People Music Awards in both 2019 and 2020.
- Recognition at The Beatz Awards with nominations for Producer of the Year, credited to his work on Adekunle Gold’s “Sinner,” and Afro Highlife Producer of the Year for Tekno’s hit song “Enjoy.”
- A triumphant 2022 Beatz Awards haul, where he clinched not one but three coveted titles – Afro Highlife Producer and Dancehall Producer of the Year – thanks to Simi’s “Logba Logba” and Adekunle Gold’s “Mercy,” respectively, and Producer of the Year.
Blaise Beatz’s remarkable career continues to shine brightly, with accolades pouring in from esteemed platforms such as the Headies, where his contributions to Nigerian music are consistently celebrated.