Eltxn Goes Against The Grain With The Release of “Boy Wonder”
Eltxn (pronounced Elton) has taken a slightly different approach to making music in Nigeria. Where many emerging artists are pushing for the next Afrobeats banger, Eltxn has opted for a debut project bound together by the soothing melodies of love and vulnerability instead.
Delivered over soulful beats, the Lagos-based artist says the making of Boy Wonder has been a particularly personal journey, and that he has had to remain committed to a sound that may not be too popular.
“My persona sets me apart. There aren’t many people in Nigeria doing pure R&B music, and it isn’t what usually makes it to the top of the charts. I’m a different breed in that sense, which is good”. He shares.
For more on the making of Boy Wonder, Eltxns biggest influences, and what he sees as he looks towards the next phase of his career, see our full interview below.
This interview has been lightly edited for the purpose of clarity and context.
Jade Kelly: When did your love affair with music begin?
Eltxn: I'm a relatively new artist. I started making music in March 2019, that was when I released my first single Lonely. But I've been in love with music much longer than that, and I've always toyed with the idea of being a musician.
How hard is it to establish yourself as an emerging artist in Lagos-seeing as it is such a saturated industry?
Pretty difficult. Especially if you're doing it on a zero dollar budget like I am. Money is what moves music here in Lagos. So yeah it is pretty difficult, cause everything has to be organic.
What sets you apart from everyone else right now?
I believe my persona and my style of music sets me apart. There aren't many people in Nigeria doing pure R&B music, and it isn't what you see topping the charts regularly. So in that sense I'm a different breed, and in my own lane.
How would you describe your sound?
My sound is calm and soothing. I love to create a chill and laidback feel with my music. I can up the tempo from time to time, but I most prefer to go easy and smooth. The type of stuff you vibe to alone at night, or on an evening drive back home.
What is Boy Wonder about, and who is it for?
Boy Wonder is about me. A few of my stories told my way, and it's for every and anyone who can relate to it.
Who do you cite as your greatest musical influences?
R&B music is the greatest thing in the world, and I personally enjoy and grew up 90's and 2000's R&B, with a few influences here and there from pop and hip-hop.
Usher, Donell Jones, Chris Brown, D'Angelo, AYLØ, Justin Timberlake, Tay Iwar, Drake and PARTYNEXTDOOR are all huge influences for me.
What excites you most about the next phase of your career?
The uncertainty. That's what excites me. You literally have no idea what could happen in the future most times. It's just my job to make the best music I can right now, push it out to the world, and see what happens. Anything fan happen from there.
What can we look forward to seeing from you in the next few months?
I wanna flood you all with music, not gonna lie. As much as possible. Single and features. Have to keep the train going. So definitely watch this space.
