Tariq Temitope Oluokan, also known as TAR1Q is one Nigerian music’s promising future stars. His work spans an impressive array of projects, most notably two compelling EPs titled “Son of the Moon” in 2022 and “All I Felt” in 2023. His journey into the scene has not been easy as it was shaped by constant change. Growing up, TAR1Q moved frequently between various states across Nigeria.
“Having to change schools during that period was not easy and not many people knew me enough to allow me to express myself musically.”
Although the frequent moves made it difficult for him to settle in one place, music became a refuge for the singer-songwriter. Through music, TAR1Q was able to discover a deep love for storytelling.
In March 2023, the artist signed with Chocolate City Music Group marking a renaissance of his artistic journey. Previously signed under NuTrybe Records- a subsidiary of the record label, the young artist has clearly refined his skills and crafted his own sound. His debut project, “Son of the Moon” showcases his exceptional talent and an artistic depth that is destined for greatness.
In his recent interview with MoreBranches, we spoke about his musical journey, his recent single with Khaid, his signing with Chocolate City, and his future ambitions.
What did the earliest point of music begin for you?
TAR1Q: The earliest point of music for me has to be writing people’s songs. I have early memories of people I like to listen to such as Post Malone, Kanye West, Wizkid, Burna Boy, and the Weeknd. Listening to their songs on TV inspired me as I would write the lyrics in a book. I loved stacking up songbooks. This brought about my collection of genres such as rap, pop, and R&B. From there, I started to write my own songs.
I loved performing the songs I wrote in the songbook, especially during end-of-the-year parties in school. It didn’t last long cause I moved around a lot. Having to change schools during that period was not easy and not many people knew me enough to give me that opportunity to express myself. I kept writing in the four corners of my room. At a stage in my life, I used to rap and did not like singing.
Once I moved back to Lagos from Delta State, I was drawn to singing. From writing songs for people to progressing to where I am, I am very grateful.
How would you describe your sound?
TAR1Q: I love to make it extremely relatable. The only reason I can do that is because it comes from within. Music is very spiritual to me. I would classify my sound as soul because I believe music is supposed to affect people. That’s the whole idea of music. You either feel good or understood. As an African man, I would describe it as Afro-soul.
What was the creation process like for “Jigga” with Khaid?
It was very unorthodox. The beat was made a long time ago around November/December. We left it for a period of time because I was more focused on making other songs. The week before Christmas, I was recording another song but left it. Then I stumbled on “Jigga” and the melody on it was so catchy. I did my verse and recorded the whole thing. I went to Khaid’s place and we talked about what we were working on. He had an idea and recorded his own verse. He didn’t stray from what I had in mind. He made it look like it was one person singing which I loved.
Which of your songs would you say has had the most meaning to you so far in your career?
TAR1Q: I love all my songs. My music is different sizes of me. If I had to choose, I would probably say “dear Insecurities” from Son of the Moon. That was me singing about all the things I was worried about. Looking back now, majority of things I was worried about, they are happening and I am acing them. It’s the one where I opened myself the most. Other songs I would say are “Away” which talks about me being far away from my home and “Emotions” is about me having feelings for different people. I am growing every day in making music that’s extremely about me and connective.
How did you first get signed to NuTrybe ?
For Nu Trybe, I was pretty much making freestyles and they saw one of my freestyles. Prior to that, my manager was already working with the Head of Chocolate City and telling them about me. They wanted to see who the real Tar1q was. I had performances where it was to see how good I am. I am just someone who loves to sing and perform what he loves to sing about.
The best thing I am most grateful to Nu Trybe for is my fanbase. They believed in me before I had anything out. Getting to see that fanbase grow and seeing how much they love my music is something I thank them for. I am happy to be signed to Chocolate City but many think I am signed as a new artist. This is not the case due to my connection with Nu Trybe but all in all, I have good support holding me down. I am grateful to NuTrybe
What is the creative process of making Son Of The Moon?
It was a lot to take in. It was the first time I had that realization that making good music is not enough. People need to connect to something. I really want to connect and be driven by the thought that I can affect someone in a good way. This is because the person listens to the words that come out of my mouth in my music. If my music can make someone feel good or understood, I feel like a superhero.
I am quite curious about your past projects, Son of the Moon and All I Felt. Would you mind shedding more light on the choice of the names of those projects?
In terms of my catalog, it’s always going to be a phase. If you check the artwork of “Son of the Moon” and “All I Felt”, it’s always me sitting behind something. For “Son of the Moon”, I was sitting behind the moon on the road. This represents my head in the cloud and also reaching for the clouds. The moon is also known as the mother of feelings. That was me ready to show the world myself. For “All I Felt”, I was sitting behind the door which signifies my home. All I felt was more about being away from people that made me feel at home.
Who would you most likely want to collaborate with?
I would love to collaborate with Kanye West, Post Malone, Tems, Burna Boy, and Jeriq
What are you most excited about as one of Chocolate City’s flagship artists?
I’m very happy to be at the same label as artists like Young Jonn and Blaqbonez. Over the years, I’ve learned a lot from Blaqbonez even before I got signed. He is someone I genuinely respect and try to learn from. Aside from that, I’m excited to take my sound to different parts of the world. Looking at how much progress I have made from Nu Trybe and moving to Chocolate City, it’s only going to grow. That’s something I can’t wait for and look forward to.
What’s your current take on the debates around Afrobeats?
I just believe Afrobeats is not a genre. Diversification is something that will not change and when there are different sides to Afrobeats music, that’s what makes it rich. African culture is rich because it is diversified. It is a movement and community.
Do you have any upcoming projects we can look forward to from TAR1Q?
Yes definitely. A lot of projects. I’m already working on one and hoping it crosses boundaries that have been set by the previous one. I hope it also helps people to understand my idea of Afrobeats and what music is. I also hope it makes people feel good.
