Share

cover art for From the Basement to the Grammys Featuring Tejiri Akpoghene

With An S

From the Basement to the Grammys Featuring Tejiri Akpoghene

In this episode, the Afrobeats Avengers are joined by Grammy Award-winning producer Tejiri Akpoghene.


Long before Future, Drake, and Tems’ track “Wait for U” was nominated for two Grammy Awards in 2023, Tejiri had already envisioned his moment of Grammy recognition. Though unsure of how it would unfold, his belief never wavered. This conviction has fueled his inspiring journey through the music industry.


He discusses honing his craft from childhood, learning from Dede Mabiaku and Cobhams Asuquo, the creative scene at Covenant University, creating Tems’ “Higher,” and navigating life after his Grammy win.


Watch the video episode here.

More episodes

View all episodes

  • Raise to Power

    33:26|
    On this episode, Sharon and Deji review new music from the past week including Davido's "Awuke," Fido x Tiwa Savage's "Awolowo" remix, Mannywellz’ "Lala" EP, Kvng Vinci x Zerrydl's "HAUSAPIANO" remix, Anendlessocean's "OCTAGON" and more.
  • The Toyé Show ft The Afrobeats Avengers

    46:40|
    Toyé’s introduction to music was unorthodox. While others in his secondary school joined the choir to explore their talents, Toyé joined so he could enjoy the privilege of dining at the Oba’s Palace. Though a mischievous plan, he was saved from the dread of boarding house meals, all while quietly nurturing his budding interest in music.On this episode of "The Toyé Show," we dive into his early years creating music, the pivotal moment he decided to take his craft seriously, and his latest project, "Wahala in Paradise." From his unconventional beginnings to finding his voice as an artist, Toyé shares insights on his journey, influences, and what it means to stay true to his sound.
  • Free Jiggy Economy

    01:18:43|
    On this episode, Bola, Deji, and Chibuzo review new releases from the previous week, including Juls’ “Leap of Faith,” Magixx’s “Lemme Know,” Qing Madi’s “Goosebumps,” 2Baba’s “Kuku Google Am,” and more. They also get into a spirited discussion about the criteria for a global hit, categorizing it into three tiers and ranking Afrobeats hits accordingly.
  • We Love Chaos

    47:49|
    On this episode, Deji, Bola and Chibuzo review last week’s releases including Ckay’s “Emotions,” Bnxn ft Rema’s “Fi Kan We Kan,” Lojay’s “Falling/Unleashed,” Wizkid ft Brent Faiyaz’s “Piece of My Heart,” Tiwa Savage’s “Forgiveness,” Blaqbonez’s “Of Many Colours’:Orange” and more. 
  • I Want Violence ft Kold AF

    58:02|
    On this episode, Deji is joined by rising superstar, KoldAF. They begin with Kold AF’s previous life, where she was studying to become a lawyer at Obafemi Awolowo University, and the push that encouraged her to take a chance in a career making music. KoldAF takes us through a few of the highlights of her career so far, including her travels abroad, signing with Warner Music, and the creation of her most recent EP, “Kaution.” They break down the inspiration behind the EP and discuss her deviation from her usual R&B sound, exploring how she draws influences from Patois and incorporates elements of Caribbean rhythms. Watch on YouTube
  • Talent Choke

    55:34|
    On this episode, the Afrobeats Avengers review their favourite tracks and projects from the last two weeks, including Juls x Black Sherif x Projexx’s “Timing,” Blaqbonez’s “Haibo Freestyle,” Minz’s “By Any Minz,” Mavins x Andre Vibez x DanDizzy’s “Like,” Kaestyle’s “Happy People,” Toye’s “Wahala In Paradise,” Nasboi’s “in Nasboi I Trust,” Phyno’s “Full Time Job,” Reminisce’s “Sui Generis” and much more. 
  • Reload It: Burna Boy's "African Giant"

    01:04:00|
    Burna Boy's African Giant album helped turbocharge Burna's ascent with its release in 2019. On this episode, we revisit the album, its impact on our conceptualization of Afrobeats and how it helped spotlight Afrobeats to a global audience. With its blend of Afrobeat, dancehall, and hip-hop, African Giant captured Burna's Afro-fusion genius. We share our favourite tracks and moments and explore the album's lasting impact.
  • Imaginary Enemies

    44:50|
    On this episode, Deji and Moyo review Oxlade’s “Oxlade From Africa,” Nasboi’s “In Nasboi We Trust,” Ckay’s “In My Bed,” Kizz Daniel’s “We Must” and Deto Black’s “Tease.”