Few artists in Nigeria’s buzzing music scene are pushing boundaries quite like Loti. Born Emelie Dan-Nwabueze in Lagos, the rising star has built a reputation for fearless storytelling and a genre-blurring sound that captures the grit, ambition, and spirit of his city. Since his debut in 2020 with 'Sins & Scenes', he’s dropped projects that balance vulnerability with swagger, most notably the breakout 'Gorimapa Gangsta EP' and its viral anthem 'Mainland', which sparked the #MainlandChallenge and pulled in millions of interactions online.
Now, with 'Gorimapa Gangsta, Vol. 2: Lotstar', Loti delivers his most personal and hard-hitting work to date. Across the EP, he navigates themes of persistence, redemption, and the struggles of carving out a career in the Lagos industry, while also offering messages of gratitude and encouragement. The project is as raw as it is ambitious, weaving sharp lyricism with soundscapes that refuse to fit into one genre. From the standout single 'Okirika' featuring rising star taves, to the heartfelt reflections that run throughout, Lotstar cements Loti as one of Nigeria’s most compelling new voices.
So with the new EP out now, we sat down with him to find out more about his background and what has been inspiring him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The Guitar, I also play.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I loved Rnb, and was a big fan of StylPlus. Psquare as well, Omoge mi, Senorita, honourable mention.
What was the first album you remember owning?
MI 2
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Hold on We’re Going Home - Drake, Majid Jordan
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Nope, each song, or session has its own vibe.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Drake, Rema, Zaylevelten, Taves
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Drake
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Everyone singing your song back at you, word for word.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The entire marketing process, sometimes it seems like a humiliation ritual.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
“Just keep dropping, you don’t know the song that could change your life”
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Loti's new EP 'Gorimapa Gangsta, Vol. 2: Lotstar' is out now. Check it out in the player below.