Nigerian artist Cznbaby, hailing from Cross River State, is on a steady trajectory to the heights and dreams of every artist. Yet, he is patient in establishing his character and traits as a dynamic and distinct talent.

At just 24, Cznbaby’s journey into music officially began in 2021, drawing inspiration from notable Nigerian talents like Ogranya, Jess ETA and Layzee Ella. His love for music, however, started much earlier. Fond memories of singing Christmas carols with his siblings and playing the clarinet in his junior high school orchestra laid the groundwork for his unique sound.

Cznbaby’s classical music background, shaped by his time in the orchestra and exposure to the works of Handel and Bach, provided him with a deep understanding of melodies and song structure. Today, his music reflects a blend of these early influences with a contemporary Afro-pop twist. He is gradually curating a soothing and genre-defying sound that is both introspective and vibrant.

Having recently released his debut EP titled “Burnt Honey,” Cznbaby is ready to share his stories. The EP’s name came from a desire to capture something “synonymous to bittersweet,” reflecting the complex emotions in his music. It’s a sound he describes as “soothing” and “feel good” – a direct result of his upbringing and experiences.

In a conversation with Revolve Muzic, we explore Cznbaby’s world. He is ready to share his talent with the world and this stems from passion as exemplified in his debut EP.

RV. Cznbaby Congratulations on your debut EP release, “Burnt Honey.” But tell us who really is Cznbaby?

Cznbaby: “Cznbaby is more than just a stage name – it’s a reflection of my journey and my vision as an artist. I started making music as a way to express emotions I couldn’t put into words, and over time, it has become a huge part of what I do. The name ‘Cznbaby’ represents my desire to create a unique, soulful sound that blends different genres and influences.

I’m just someone who loves making music that feels honest and true to who I am. That’s Cznbaby – an artist who’s still growing, still learning, and still finding new ways to share my stories with the world.”

RV. I need to bring this up, I’m curious about the name “Essien,” predominantly associated with Ghanaians, like the legendary footballer Michael Essien. Can you tell us the story behind your name and any connections it holds for you as a Nigerian?

Cznbaby: Haha! Yeah. There is no story behind the name. It is an EFIK name in Cross River State.  It is my grandfather’s.

RV: Growing up in Cross River State and being part of an orchestra in junior high must have shaped your early relationship with music. How did those experiences influence your style today?

Cznbaby: I’ve always been around music. I grew up listening to a lot of classical songs from ‘Handel’, and ‘Bach’. It was not long before I wanted to learn and I decided to join an orchestra. The experiences gave my mind the basics I needed to understand melodies and song structures.

RV: You’ve described your sound as “soothing” and “feel good.” Would you say your upbringing or environment contributed to these qualities in your music?

Cznbaby: Yes, Definitely.

RV: Your musical journey officially began in 2021, but what were some defining moments growing up that made you realize music was the path you wanted to take? How has the experience of entering shaped you as an artist, especially within the Nigerian music scene?

Cznbaby: I never had a moment where I thought or I saw myself being an artist. However, I always had some moments or times when my siblings and I used to sing together around the house (during Christmas) & do mini-musicals.

RV: Let’s delve into your recent project. Tell us what inspired the concept and name “Burnt Honey” as your debut project.

Cznbaby: The name was inspired by the theme of the project. I needed something synonymous with bittersweet. The producer (Furzkhadi) had already mentioned a couple of times he wanted a classic Afro-infused tape. So we agreed on a love plot with a twist.

RV: The EP is an Afro-pop-infused body of work. What elements did you incorporate to give it that unique Cznbaby signature?

Cznbaby: For the beat, I’ll give the producer credit. He has a good ear and I just kept nodding for ‘yes I want this added on too’  or I just shook my head to say no. I ensured I had decent vocal deliveries, vocal layering, proper lyrical content that combined English and African pidgin language and of course, catchy hooks.

RV: Which of the songs on “Burnt Honey” do you feel most connected to, and why?

The song I feel most connected to is ‘One Night’. Why?  I enjoyed the writing process. The randomness of it, the time it was written and the mood. It was unplanned but in synch.

RV: With your sound being genre-defying, how do you approach blending various styles like Afro-pop with other influences in your music?

Cznbaby: My approach is pretty instinctive. I don’t set strict rules for myself. Instead, I let the music guide me. I’m inspired by so many different artists and sounds, and I think that’s what drives me to experiment. I want my music to reflect my diverse influences and create a unique sound that can resonate with different kinds of people. It’s all about pushing boundaries and making music that feels true to who I am.”

RV: What should your growing fans expect next for you after “Burnt Honey”?

Cznbaby: They should expect a lot more beautiful music after “Burnt Honey”. Different genres and a few experimental tracks here and there. But yes, They are in for a good time!

RV: Given your experience with live performances, especially at the 2022 Fun Festival in Calabar, what would be your dream stage or festival to perform?

Cznbaby: There are a lot of great stages and festivals I would love to perform at, ranging across Nigeria to overseas. Looking forward to performing at festivals like  ‘Nativeland’, ‘Livespot x’, ‘homecoming’,  ‘Rhythm Unplugged’, ‘AfroNation’ etc.

RV: If you could work with any artist or producer globally, who would it be, and why?

CznBaby: There are lots of artists I would love to work with like Oxlade, Ogranya, Amaarae and Fave. Aside from being an artist, on a production level, it’s definitely Juls. Once you hear that tag on a beat, you already know your ears are in for a good time. I was in a phase where I was stuck on his work and the run he had with Mr. Eazi. Genius.Nigerian artist Cznbaby, hailing from Cross River State, is on a steady trajectory to the heights and dreams of every artist. Yet, he is patient in establishing his character and traits as a dynamic and distinct talent.

By: Jude Tackie