Nigeria’s rising star Akpurioghene Rukevwe Wisdom, also known as, Bustwize, is becoming more popular in the west African country’ music scene even though he had faced tough times early on in his life.
Although he encountered challenges earlier in life, attending Delta State University in Abraka proved beneficial for the young, versatile singer, as it further fuelled his passion for music.
When he moved to Lagos, he got really into its different music styles, rap, afrobeats, and afrofusion, to make his own special music.
Bustwize says he won't forget where he comes from and wants to grow as a person along with his music. He tells stories in his songs about not giving up, showing how art can help you go from hard times to success.
Even though he's new to the music scene, Bustwize has already made a big impression with his songs. His first song, "E Go Choke," came out in April 2021 with Hotkid. People loved it, and it got him noticed.
Then, in July 2022, he released "Conspiracy." Just a month later, he shared his first EP, also called Conspiracy, with six songs. It was a great way for people to get to know him as an artist.
In 2024, Bustwize started strong by working with Lil5ive on a song called "Ye Ye." It mixes street hip-hop with a modern sound, and it's sure to get people dancing with its catchy beats and vocals.
GQ’s Luthando Vikilahle, chats to the west African genre blending artist about his latest works, love for music and more.
GQ: Your journey from Ughelli, Delta State, to the bustling music scene of Lagos, and now to South Africa, showcases a remarkable trajectory. How have these diverse environments influenced your music and personal growth?
Bustwize: Shifting from Ughelli, Delta State, to the lively music scene in Lagos, and later to South Africa, has been a whirlwind journey that's deeply shaped both my tunes and my personal growth.
You know, being in these different places has been like getting a crash course in life and music. Each spot brought its own flavour, forcing me to adapt and learn. It's like adding spices to a dish – it changes the whole flavour, but in a good way.
GQ: Collaboration has been pivotal in your career, notably with HotKid and now with Lil5ive. How do these collaborations contribute to your creative process, and what do you look for when selecting an artist to collaborate with?
Bustwize: Collaborating with folks like Hotkid and now Lil5ive has been like adding different ingredients to a stew – it just makes everything richer. When I'm picking collaborators, I'm not just looking for talent; I'm looking for someone who vibes with me, you know? It's like finding a musical soulmate. We bounce ideas off each other, mix our styles, and create something that's greater than the sum of its parts.
GQ: Let's discuss your debut EP, "Conspiracy.” Can you share some insights into the thematic elements and inspirations behind this project?
Bustwize: "Conspiracy" is like pouring my heart out on a record. It's not just about making music; it's about telling my story. Losing my parents was really hard, but music became my therapy. Each track on the EP is like a chapter in my life – from the struggles to the triumphs. It's about turning pain into power and finding hope in the darkest moments.
GQ: Your music reflects themes of resilience and hope, drawing from your own life experiences. How do you balance vulnerability and strength in your songwriting?
Bustwize: Balancing vulnerability and strength can be very difficult. You want to pour your heart out, but you also want to uplift people.
I draw from my own struggles, but I try to make it relatable. It's like saying, "Hey, I've been through some stuff too, but we're gonna get through it together." That's the magic of music – it turns pain into power.
GQ: How would you define your sound? Tell us a little more about your creative process when creating music?
Bustwize: My sound is like a mix of different flavours that somehow just work together. I started with rap, but I've added my own twist to it. When I'm making music, it's like catching a vibe. I'll hear a beat, and suddenly, the words just start flowing. Sometimes it takes days to get it right, but when it clicks, it's like magic.
GQ: Could you delve into the inspiration behind your latest single “YE YE” ft Lil5ive, and how it reflects your artistic evolution?
Bustwize: For me, "YE YE" is like a victory lap. It's about rising above the noise and owning your power. Teaming up with Lil5ive was like adding gasoline to a fire – it just took the song to a whole new level. It's a testament to how far I've come as an artist and as a person.
GQ: Moving forward in your career, what are some goals or aspirations you hope to achieve, both musically and personally?
Bustwize: My goal is to keep pushing the boundaries, both musically and personally. I want to make music that moves people, that makes them feel something.
And personally, I want to be a beacon of hope for anyone who's going through tough times. If my music can make even one person's day a little brighter, then I've done my job.
GQ: From the moment you first made your foray into the music industry to this point, what challenges have you faced, and how do you maintain authenticity?
Bustwize: The music industry is like a jungle – it's tough out there. But through it all, I've stayed true to myself. I've faced my fair share of challenges, but I've never compromised who I am.
At the end of the day, authenticity is all you've got. People can see through the BS, so you've gotta keep it real.
GQ: What is your dream collaboration?
Bustwize: My dream collaboration would have to be with Burna Boy. He's a legend in the game, and working with him would be like a dream come true. I can only imagine the magic we'd create together.
GQ: Who do you enjoy working with the most?
Bustwize: While I haven't had the chance yet, I've got a feeling that collaborating with Seyi Vibez would be something special. His vibe just speaks to me, you know? I think we could create something truly unique together.
GQ: Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of music?
Bustwize: If I wasn't making music, I'd probably be on the football field. It's another passion of mine, something that's been with me since I was a kid.
And when I'm not playing or making music, you'll probably find me gaming. It's my way of unwinding and escaping the craziness of the industry.
GQ: Would you describe yourself as a morning or night person?
Bustwize: Definitely a night owl. There's just something about the quiet of the night that gets my creative juices flowing. Plus, there's nothing like staying up late making music until the early hours of the morning.
GQ: 5 things people would be surprised to know about you?
Bustwize: Well, first off, I'm a huge football fan. People might not expect that from a musician. Secondly, despite what my music might suggest, I'm actually a big softie at heart. Thirdly, every song I write comes from a real place – it's all about keeping it authentic.
Oh, and I'm a firm believer in the power of music to change the world. And lastly, there's always more to me than meets the eye. I'm constantly evolving and growing, both as an artist and as a person.
GQ: Do you stalk anyone on Instagram? And why?
Bustwize: I try not to get too caught up in all that. Social media can be a bit of a rabbit hole. I'd rather focus on making real connections with people than scrolling through their feeds.
GQ: What's the craziest thing you've ever eaten?
Bustwize: I once tried cat meat – definitely not something you see on the menu every day lol.
GQ: What's the craziest thing you've ever done in the name of love?
Bustwize: To be honest, love makes you do some pretty crazy things, doesn't it? I've pulled off some pretty elaborate surprises in the name of love, but hey, it's all worth it for that special someone.
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