In an industry that can get easily oversaturated with several new acts and personalities, Abimbola Ibirogba is emerging as a breath of fresh air, breathing new life on the scene as an inventive songwriter. Since venturing into the Nigerian music scene, he is actively blazing a new trail in the songwriting business amidst the hustle and bustle that engulfs the music industry. His influence on records goes beyond the process of putting words together; he is able to evoke emotions through skillful composition that aligns with the sonic experience his producers and collaborators work to create.

While many artists take the limelight in front of the mic, Abimbola stands out because his work elevates the status of his collaborators. He understands the dynamic of working in the background, taking the subtle route, and allowing his work to shine through and speak for itself. From Afrosoul records to upbeat pop songs that pulse with urgency, his range as a songwriter is undeniable. His catalogue is stacked with great records collaborating with promising and established artists, ranging from work with Atee Sole to Stovia,  as well as other artists within and outside the country, and this has  positioned him as a key player in the lyrical development of artists due to his work behind the scenes.

The songwriter  extraordinaire is proof that the limelight is not all there is within music. Now enjoying more recognition for his work, he remains grounded with an awareness of how far he come but focused on what’s still ahead. In this interview, he speaks about his journey, the beauty of creating for others, and what the future holds.

This interview is lightly edited for clarity.

You’re enjoying some more recognition in your work as a songwriter. Do you feel like the hard work is paying off?

Abimbola Ibirogba: Absolutely. I’ve learned that visibility is a byproduct of consistent action in this space. It’s been a long time coming — writing several versions of songs at ungodly hours —and it’s gratifying to see that people are starting to notice and involve me more at recording camps. I’m grateful but it’s not about being celebrated, for me. It’s about seeing how the music I’ve helped shape connects with people. That’s when you know the work has really paid off—when someone hears a song and it feels like theirs.

Does the new attention feel uncomfortable for you?

It’s not really strange, but it is certainly new. I’ve always been the person behind the scenes, but stepping into the space where others can see me feels like I’m in the spotlight for a change. Obviously I’m not as visible as most artists but things are changing. It’s normal to experience new things, it means growth, right? I’m grateful and learning to embrace it, learning to understand that I’m someone. I want the work to shine, and if my name gets dragged into the light with it, then so be it.

When did you decide to get into music full time, writing others?

I’ve always loved music, I was the kid in secondary school that sat with headphones on, rewinding sections of songs because I loved the way the artist delivered certain sections. I started writing more as I got into university, mostly for fun, and then I realized I could turn into something more substantial. It was natural for me because words and music are two sides of the same coin.

How has the journey been so far? It seems like it gets overwhelming sometimes.

“Overwhelming” sounds about right. There are days when it feels like so many things are happening in my brain and I can’t turn them off. But then there are moments of flow and those make it all worth it. I’ve learned to lean into the dynamic nature of the music industry, accepting those moments as part of the process. The journey’s been a mix of frustration, discovery, and joy. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

What’s your favorite thing about writing music for others?

I just love the process of storytelling. When I write for someone else, I’m taking a dive into their perspective, their emotions. It’s like stepping into someone’s shoes and trying to see the world in the way that they do. It’s beautiful to help an artist articulate feelings they might not have the words for. It’s like being a translator of emotions.

Would you make music of your own?

I get this question a lot actually, and the answer is a definite yes. I enjoy creating for others, but I think it’s time to start putting out my own. I think there’s a time and space for everything, and when I feel ready to tell my own story, I’ll do it in the best possible way.

What does 2024 hold for you?

It’s all about growth for me. 2024 is about pushing boundaries; collaborating with more artists, experimenting with my own music, and stepping into new territories. I want to take my craft to a new level, to challenge myself to make music that surprises even me.

What’s your creative process like? How long does it take you to come up with records?

It varies. Some records come together in a matter of hours, almost like they were waiting to be made. Others require patience and take a few days and even weeks sometimes. I just have to keep chiseling away at it until the sculpture emerges. I prefer to start with a feeling or emotion, a single note or lyric, and build from there. The process is always up and down, but I’ve learned to trust it.