Illyminiachi Interview: Each song is a new canvas for me to test my artistic abilities

Brian Okoronkwo, also known as Illyminiachi, is a 26-year old Vancouver-based Nigerian rapper with an expressive and exuberant style, and scorching bars to match. Piano lessons as a young child spurred on the discovery of his lyrical and overall musical abilities, and by the time he was 19, he knew a blossoming musical career was inevitably on the horizon.

Illyminiachi today would thank his 19-year-old self for following that hunch and working on himself, because, it’s very fair to say his work is paying off. Highlights so far include 2.5 million Spotify streams, and opening the stage for some of the biggest international names including Young Thug, Gunna and Saweetie, in Canada. His latest single “So Much” sees the rapper exhibit his vocal and lyrical prowess once again, proving that he’s definitely a talent to have your eyes fixed on.

So Much is an adrenaline fueled anthem where I describe the harsh truths I am faced with on my journey. It is an introspective reflection of the trials of an artist like myself who finds themselves questioning why they do what they do. The song is produced by Muddy Troubles and Kane Wane, frequent producers of mine from America.

Illyminiachi describing his latest single “So Much”

We chopped it up with Illyminiachi to talk about his style, motivations, influences, and what to expect from his really soon.

What was your first experience making music?

Illyminiachi: I started making music at an early age. I would play the piano as a child and began writing music by the age of 13

When was the first time you realized you could make a career from music?

Music was always a passion of mine. I viewed it as a hobby until I made my first $1000 from performing then I began to see the potential in what I was creating.

You dropped your first project “Few and Far Between” in 2017, how do you think you’ve grown the most since then?

Few and far between was my first full-length body of work. It taught me a lot about music structure and how to put together a project. Since then I have grown in every possible as an artist. My music is much better sonically and I am able to put together more cohesive projects now than ever before.

What motivates me as artist?

I am motivated every day to become better than I was previously. I constantly try to outdo myself every time. Each song is a new canvas for me to test my artistic abilities. I am trying to paint vivid pictures.

You’ve noticeably garnered 2.5million Spotify streams, why do you think listeners gravitate to you and your unique style.

Well, for one thing, it is unique like you said, I think it’s my delivery and melodies. People have also told me my music is very catchy and I guess those things are what keep them coming back.

How much influence would you say Vancouver had on the music you make?

I would say a lot because that’s where my life is based at the moment. All my friends are in the city and together we’ve brought about a change. Building both the cultural scene and music scene, the love I get in Vancouver is unmatched. 

Are there any particular challenges you think have made you a better artist?

Yes all of them haha. It’s important that you experience challenges in any field to become better at whatever it is you do. My biggest challenge to date has been capturing an audience. With that being said it’s a constant push to become the best version of myself.

Who are some of your biggest influences?

My biggest influences in music would be Future, Kanye West and probably Drake because of the impact he had in Canada. I also love Wizkid and Burna Boy.

Who are some artists you would like to work with?

The same artists that influence me. It would be an honour to work with any of those names mentioned.

Can we expect any coming releases from you soon?

Yes, I have completed my next project and it will be titled “Campaign”. It signifies the journey I’ve been on since starting this music thing and encapsulates a wide variety of my music styles. So be on the lookout for that to release before the end of the year.

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