Having already spent the last few months turning out a breadth of immersive delights, Lagos-born, Accra-based artist ZIK is back once again to deliver his breezy new single 'ALL THE GIRLS'.
Lifted from his newly released studio album 'FOR THE TIMES WE'VE LOST', which is available to stream now, 'ALL THE GIRLS' makes for a brilliantly smooth and alluring listen throughout. With his sultry vocals spread across a dynamic production from start to finish, he is certainly looking to get our hips shaking with this one.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most recently.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The first instrument I fell in love with was the piano. Growing up as a young boy in Lagos, Nigeria, I was surrounded by the vibrant sounds of music in the church. Every Sunday, I would watch in awe as the pianist brought melodies to life, filling the room with emotion and spirit. It didn’t take long to realize that the piano was calling me. The way its keys could express joy, sorrow, and everything in between captivated me.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
When I was younger, my taste in music was shaped by a diverse range of artists, each bringing something unique to the table. Fela Kuti's Afrobeat rhythms and powerful messages resonated deeply with me, capturing the essence of African pride and social consciousness. I also had a soft spot for Sade's smooth, soulful voice and her ability to blend jazz, R&B, and pop into something truly timeless. Enya's ethereal soundscapes transported me to another world, providing a soothing escape whenever I needed it. And then there was Lil Wayne, whose lyrical prowess and energetic beats kept me hooked, adding a modern edge to my musical palette. These artists influenced my love for music, giving me a well-rounded appreciation for different genres and styles.
What was the first album you remember owning?
The first album I remember owning was *Zombie* by Fela Kuti. Growing up, Fela's music was everywhere, but *Zombie* had a special place in my heart. The powerful rhythms, the bold lyrics, and Fela's fearless spirit made it a standout for me. Owning that album felt like holding a piece of history, a powerful statement wrapped in music that still resonates with me today. It was my introduction to the world of Afrobeat, and it left a lasting impact on my musical journey.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
I have been writing my own songs since the beginning of my career, so it's difficult to say if there's a song I wish I had written myself. However, who knows—maybe one day I'll hear a song and think, "Why didn't I come up with that?" For now, I'll just keep writing and leave the wishful thinking for when I'm stuck in traffic and a catchy tune pops on the radio.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I make a conscious effort not to force a certain vibe when I'm creating new music. I prefer to wait until inspiration strikes naturally. Whether it's a spontaneous melody popping into my head or a moment that sparks an idea, I let the creative process unfold organically. It's important to me to capture genuine emotion and translate it into something real.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I've been listening to a lot of Nina Simone and Burna Boy, as well as a lot of my own unreleased works. It's always helpful to revisit my own music while also drawing inspiration from both legends and current icons.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
If I could open a show for anyone in the world, it would most definitely be Post Malone and the legendary African Giant, aka Burna Boy. The energy and vibe they bring to the stage are unmatched, and it would be an incredible experience to kick off a show for either of them!
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The most rewarding part of being a musician is creating timeless records that sound new every day, every year. There's something special about knowing your music can stand the test of time and continue to resonate with people, no matter when they hear it. It's like capturing a moment that never fades.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The most frustrating part is when I try to rush the writing process. Creativity doesn’t always follow a set timeline, and forcing it can lead to less satisfying results. Sometimes, you just have to wait for the right moment and let the ideas come naturally.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
The best piece of advice I've received as a musician is: "Time is precious; don't rush it. Your time will come." It's a reminder to be patient and trust the process, knowing that good things take time and that each step in the journey is valuable.
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ZIK's new single 'ALL THE GIRLS' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.