Afrobeats sensation Ikuforiji Olaitan, popularly known as Oxlade, has revealed why he deliberately avoids smoking and hard drugs, crediting his personal discipline to spiritual values and the environment in which he was raised.
During an intimate discussion with celebrated gospel artiste Tim Godfrey, the singer reflected on the lifestyle choices that have shaped his career, explaining that his upbringing laid a moral foundation long before fame arrived. He noted that growing up within a faith-centred household naturally influenced the decisions he makes today.
Rather than adopting habits commonly associated with celebrity culture, Oxlade said his early exposure to church life instilled structure and responsibility. Music, according to him, was never separated from spirituality, as his first performances and musical training happened within church gatherings.
He explained that years spent serving in the choir helped develop his discipline and musical identity. Beyond singing, he was deeply involved in organising worship groups, at different times coordinating children’s choruses, youth ensembles, and adult choir sessions—experiences he believes kept him focused and grounded.
The singer emphasised that he has never experimented with smoking or illicit substances, attributing this to the strong influence of religious activities that occupied much of his formative years. Church responsibilities, he said, left little room for distractions that could derail his personal growth.
Family heritage also played a major role in shaping his outlook. Oxlade described a lineage deeply connected to music and ministry: a grandmother known for powerful vocal performances as a deaconess, a grandfather skilled with musical instruments, a mother gifted in singing and dancing, and a pastor among close relatives. He noted that creativity and faith were intertwined parts of everyday life while growing up.
Discussing his artistic philosophy, the Ku Lo Sa crooner said gospel music remains the purest expression of musical storytelling in his view. He acknowledged that even while working in mainstream Afrobeats, his songwriting instincts often draw inspiration from spiritual themes learned during his church years.
Reflecting on his career milestones, Oxlade expressed gratitude for what he considers divine guidance behind his success. Touring numerous cities worldwide with his debut album, he said, strengthened his belief that his journey is shaped by faith rather than chance.
At another moment in the conversation, he remarked that public perception does not define his path, maintaining that as long as he feels spiritually directed, he approaches fame with confidence and calmness.
Commentary and Analysis
Oxlade’s revelations highlight a growing trend among younger Nigerian artistes who openly discuss faith and personal values alongside mainstream success. In an industry sometimes associated with excess, his stance challenges stereotypes about celebrity lifestyles.
His story also illustrates how early institutional environments—particularly religious communities—can influence long-term behavioural choices. For many musicians, church remains a foundational training ground, offering both vocal development and ethical structure.
Furthermore, his emphasis on gospel music as a creative anchor reflects the deep connection between Nigerian popular music and spiritual traditions. Even artists working within secular genres often draw lyrical inspiration, performance discipline, and musical techniques from religious backgrounds.
By publicly rejecting drug culture, Oxlade positions himself as part of a new generation of performers redefining success beyond fame alone—prioritising mental clarity, personal conviction, and cultural identity.
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