There’s a rare kind of clarity that comes from doing what you love, and Edenojie wears it like a second skin. Born in Nigeria and now based in Dubai, he’s a singer, songwriter, and musician whose sound is rooted in gospel but shaped by soul and R&B. But beyond the genres and melodies, it’s the intention behind his work that stands out.
In Dubai’s growing music scene, he’s carved out a space of his own. From Sofar Sounds to All Africa Fest, his performances are known for their emotion and honesty. And now, with the release of his new single See You Again, he’s offering listeners a piece of his grief, growth, and relentless pursuit of joy.
The young artist sat down with MoreBranches to talk about the road so far: his music, the weight of loss, the city of Dubai, and the beauty of chasing a dream with open hands.
Can you share your musical journey?
It started at home. I grew up in a house where I listened to a lot of music, most especially from my siblings. I was in a choir as a kid and started singing after all my siblings sing. It was fun. I always had that love for music. I always saw myself doing it, but never saw myself doing it on a big scale. It wasn’t until I bought my first guitar and started having this dream of playing in front of thousands of people. I started chasing it when I could.
What’s the music community like in Dubai for independent artists like yourself?
In Dubai, there is a tight live performing community. You get people who do this for a living who play this 24/7 and get paid well. When I moved here and was working during COVID, I saw people making a living out of it and wanted it to be my side hustle. We have our plans and God has is. The company I was working for previously went through bankruptcy, and everyone left. I got another job even after this, but there were some visa issues. I hit another roadblock with that. Some who had seen me singing in an open mic recommended me to an agency. I sent them some videos and got my first gig. It was called the Arts Club. I performed there three times a week and got paid so well.
I had to convince my parents that this is what I wanted to do. They still wanted me to go the traditional way, but I was hitting various roadblocks. I told them I had to do this 100% and told them that. I was able to book many different gigs and support myself with it. I released a song in 2020 on Spotify, I did not know the dynamics of marketing and all. I kept playing covers but knew I had to take it to the next step. I started researching and kept on going with vocal classes. I knew I had to find myself and learning a lot. I started working with producers, and fast forward to 2025, I released my new single. I know a lot now to stand on my own.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences—both from Nigeria and globally?
Going from gospel, we had Kirk Franklin, Ron Kenoly, and Women of Faith. Then, R&B, there was Boyz II Men, Whitney Houston, and Michael Jackson. To Plantation Boyz, Styl Plus, P-Square, Fela Kuti. Those were the people. I like people like Timi Dakolo, Tay Iwar, Adekunle Gold, Johnny Drille, Oxlade, Leon Thomas, and Jasmine Sullivan. I listen to a lot of music.
What has been your most memorable performance so far?
An unforgettable performance for me was in 2023, which was a few days after I lost my brother. My band and I were asked to perform on one of the biggest stages we have ever seen. It was emotional. The performance was very interesting. Another one was in 2024 was when I produced a show with a band called the “The Tasty Biscuits”. It was so packed, and we got a lot of sponsors. We wrote many songs with different artists and performed it live. When we also opened for Teddy Swims was also amazing with a crowd of over 7000. I could feel everything and see everyone. I did not feel nervous. I just felt like I was meant to be there. Those are my top three
Let’s talk about See You Again. What’s the story behind the song?
The story behind the song is a tribute to my older brother, who passed away in 2023. After crying for days and being away from your family, the song is about grief and how it’s an extension of love. I struggle to make it my first single, and how emotional it gets for me on stage. The music I was gearing for in 2025, I lost them. The person I consulted with suggested this song and encouraged me to release it. I was battling with myself and it was difficult sharing something so personal. I started recording it and putting it all together as well as working with a producer in Canada. I was done tracking my vocals and went into mixing. It was a struggle, but also healing. Grief never goes away and you just learn to live with it. When you miss the person, you just have to remember its love.
What’s your creative process like?
I love answering this question. I play the guitar. Everything starts from there. Once I hear the chords and pull out my guitar, I come up with the melody depending on the direction and the chords. Lyrics are the last step. I solidify the melody before I start writing. Whatever word comes, I say it out first.
Outside of music, what inspires you creatively?
Cooking, working out, Gaming, and staying at home.
Finally, what should fans expect from Edenojie in the coming months?
This is my first project after five years. It is a re-introduction of myself. I am trying to let the song sit a bit and push it some more. In a couple of months, I would like to release another single. Hopefully, next year, I will have an EP come out.
