In world music, artists often take centre stage due to their star power and mass appeal, leaving the minds and architects behind the scenes as they rarely receive their due recognition. Yet, the industry is driven as much by the pen as it is by the voice, and in recent times the importance of the songwriter has come to the fore. Among the names redefining the songwriter’s role in Afropop’s current wave, Abimbola Ibirogba stands out. His words, melodies and deft narratives turn regular records into anthems and serenades. He has built up his ability to translate emotion into cohesive lyrics, which makes him indispensable in recording camps as he is behind some of the most compelling records of recent times.

Songwriting is an intricate art; an art that goes beyond just the ability to string words together. It requires an understanding of rhythm, melody, and, most importantly, the mind state of the artist who will deliver the song. Abimbola excels in this craft, tailoring lyrics that suit the vocal tone and style of an artist and also reflect the emotional effects of their performance. His work spans the spectrum of contemporary Nigerian music, from the laid-back bop of ”Expensive Taste” by Kaey to the tender longing in Stovia’s ”All of You”. Shifting between genres — whether  it’s Afrosoul, mid-tempo Afropop, or more upbeat, danceable records — his versatility allows him to seamlessly navigate different sonic landscapes without losing his distinct touch and simultaneously reflect the artist’s mental state.

His journey into music began long before he ventured into the industry; a calling he had received ever since he was a schoolboy. As a teenager, he would obsessively go over sections of songs, dissecting the lyrics and production. While most were drawn to beats and melodies alone, he was often captivated by the strings of words, the phrasing, as well as the cadence. By the time he was in university, songwriting had evolved from a pastime into a serious pursuit, as he connected with other artists and producers he came across at school. He understood early on that words, when arranged the right way, could create a visceral experience.

In an industry often fixated on visibility, Abimbola embraces the unique position of a songwriter, allowing him to work  in the background while leaving his fingerprints all over the music. His process is fluid and finds it easy to adapt to the demands of each record and artist. His process can range from a quick creation that comes together in hours, while others require more effort and patience as he works away at lyrics until they fit perfectly into the sonic framework. For Abimbola, a single feeling can spark an avalanche of lyrics.

Despite his increasing recognition, Abimbola remains focused on the essence of his craft. For him, the reward is in the connection between the music and its listeners. A great song goes beyond being heard; it is felt. He takes pride in crafting lyrics that allow artists to express emotions they may struggle to articulate on their own. “It’s like being a translator of emotions,” he explains. “When I write for someone else, I step into their world, try to see things the way they do, and find the words that make their feelings real.”

His work with artists like Atee Sole, Stovia, and Wonu has solidified his reputation as a songwriter who understands the intricacies and psychology of storytelling. Whether he’s capturing the weight of heartbreak in ”Pictures” or navigating the bittersweet aftermath of love in ”Soldier”, his ability to write from multiple perspectives makes his pen invaluable.

Yet, for all his success behind the scenes, Abimbola is not content with being a hidden force forever. The question of whether he will release his own music is one he has been asked repeatedly, which he affirms but also discloses that he will not rush. His focus, for now, is on pushing boundaries, collaborating with a broader range of artists, and refining his own voice within the space he has so masterfully contributed to.

His sights are set on growth in his songwriting and in his personal artistry. With a deep understanding of music’s emotional core and a relentless drive to evolve, Abimbola Ibirogba is proving that a song’s power does not solely rest in the voice that sings it, but also in the hand that writes it. And as the Nigerian music industry continues to expand, his pen remains one of its sharpest tools.