This official interview at Afro Nation Portugal 2025 with Gabzy was conducted by Norman Busigu (Womuhai) and Hannah Ajala. Special thanks goes to Zeitgeist Agency.

Norman Busigu and Gabzy at Afro Nation Portugal 2025 - backstage during our interview

With 30 something-thousand sun kissed spirits from all over the world whining their waists to Wizkid, Gbese-ing to Burna Boy and dancing to Davido on the sandy shores of the Praia Da Rocha beach in Portugal, Afro Nation currently stands as the world's largest celebration of African music and culture. I (Norman Busigu) had the privilege of being Official Press during their landmark 2025 edition.

Since launching in 2019, Afro Nation has played a part in helping global stars such as two-time Grammy winner Tyla reach headline status on major mainstream festival line-ups around the world. The 2025 festival was its biggest to date: this highly anticipated fifth anniversary edition of the festival was headlined by Burna Boy, Davido and Tems, and took place from 9th-11th July 2025. The 2026 edition promises to be even bigger and better…

Working in association with the likes of Hennessy, Converse, Rolling Stone Africa, Spotify, BBC 1XTRA and Visit Portugal, Afro Nation continues to evolve into a truly global entity attracting the biggest brands, stakeholders and greatest talents from all over the world. And with this, artists across the spectrum - be they in the upper echelons of the industry or emerging – are presented with the opportunity and platform to significantly propel their profile on this global stage.

And it is within this diverse mix of talents that we found Gabzy (real name Gabriel Akinyemi) listed on the billing, making his return to the Afro Nation stage after his 2023 debut. Genre fluid in his approach (uniquely fusing Afrobeats with Soul, R&B and other influences), he for some time has stood out as one of the more captivating voices and songwriters in the Afrobeats universe, for his introspective exploration of themes surrounding love and emotions.

With songs such as “In Fact” “Perfect Combi” and “Toxic”, the smooth sounding serenader has begun carving his own lane within Afrobeats soundscapes, and is continuing his steady ascension. And at the end of his set – this being my first time seeing him live - I could clearly see that he left the ladies smitten for more. Having sold out tours in the UK and East Africa, and collaborated with the likes of Victony, King Promise and Odeal, he is solidifying his position while becoming a bridge between the diaspora and Africa.

Fresh off his performance on Lit Stage, I had about 15 minutes in a private booth backstage with Hannah Ajala to pick his brains with a quickfire round of questions. We gained insight into his signature sound, his current state of mind, and journey within the industry.

What is Gabzy’s heritage?

With a cool demeanour and comfortably perched in his seat, he proudly informed us of his British-Nigerian background (Yoruba to be specific), having grown up in Peckham, South East London - aka Little Lagos(!)

What is Gabzy’s history with Afro Nation?

This is his second Afro Nation, having performed also in 2023. He was very happy to be returning, reflecting that he had time to “grow up” since 2023 – in these last two years, he has gained a bigger audience and matured as an artist.

Known for having smooth sounding sonics and an attractive aura, is his signature sound one which Gabzy wants to stay with, or develop?

Gabzy explained that his music is a reflection of him. While he does enjoy the challenge of testing himself with more upbeat rhythms, he will maintain the calm, smooth signature sound he is known for.

What was Gabzy’s breakthrough project?

Almost immediately and with full assurance after being asked, he said “Summers” (the 2019 EP, made in collaboration with American Producer Melvitto).

This project can be hailed as a success in the era of streaming, serving as the catalyst that really kickstarted his career.

Taking a moment to reflect, he then expressed that he was in a “different space” when he made that project. Fast forward to Afro Nation 2025 – he explained that he is currently feeling different things from that era, meaning that his sound has evolved since Summers.

What does Gabzy look out for when collaborating with others?

He highlighted that above all, he needs to be a “fan” of the artist he eventually collaborates with. With excitement and reverence, he explained that he was a big fan of Fireboy DML before he blew up, and he let Fireboy DML know that he loved his work! For Gabzy, a love for the persons work is critical, as it will translate into their chemistry, and ultimately in the music they create. The two would go on to make the smash song “So Much Sense”.

Did Gabzy come into the industry knowing his sound was his niche?

Gabzy revealed to us that he was cognisant of a gap in the market within the Afrobeats soundscape for songs that conceptually explore emotions such as heartbreak (an almost universal experience for humans!). He also was affirmed that his approach was working, as he knew there was a demand for his music, despite not dropping for 3 years.