Behind The Booth With Masterkraft

 For over a decade, Masterkraft has been the quiet architect behind some of the most defining sounds in Nigerian music. From street anthems that shook the clubs to timeless records that bridged Afrobeats with global audiences, his fingerprints are everywhere—yet his humility keeps him grounded. A producer, songwriter, and sonic innovator, Masterkraft embodies both consistency and evolution in an industry that never stops moving.

In this exclusive conversation with Solid Guy Magazine, we sit with the hitmaker to explore the philosophies that have kept him relevant, the challenges he has faced and conquered, and what lies ahead as he continues to shape the future of African music.

1. What first sparked your interest in music and how did you evolve into the multifaceted artist you are today?

Masterkraft: My interest in music started from a young age. I learnt how to play the keyboard and eventually played in church. I’d say it was God’s plan for me to do music. My first production gig paid me ₦500 — before that, the most I’d ever made was maybe ₦15 from selling a bag of pure water. That day I told myself, “If making beats can earn me this much, I’m sticking to this.” Over time, I spent more hours in the studio, learning and absorbing as much as I could. I just kept doing my thing, and the rest is history.

2. When you start a track, what’s your typical creative process? How do you know when a track is finished?

Masterkraft: Honestly, it depends on the mood and the setting. I like to connect with whoever I’m working with — talk, laugh, catch a vibe — because music is a conversation before it becomes sound. There’s no formula, just pure connection and creativity.

I know a track is done when there’s nothing else to add. You just feel it.

3. You’ve blended genres like highlife, Amapiano, jazz, soul, gospel, and Afrobeats. How do you balance traditional elements with innovation?

Masterkraft: The balance comes from making sure the tradition isn’t lost, but dressing it in a way people can vibe to. That’s why when you hear a “Masterkraft” record, it feels familiar yet fresh. Tradition is the root, innovation is the branch, and the sound is the fruit.

4. Your most recent album, Light, reflects both personal and musical growth. What messages did you aim to convey?

Masterkraft: Light was a personal project. It’s faith-conscious — my journey of grace, faith, and patience. I named it Light because of my life journey and how my mentality has shaped what I’ve been able to overcome. I wanted to turn that into songs, something I could pass on.

The project is about exposing truth: showing people that what we’re searching for is within us. If you’re rooted in God, you’ll find your purpose. We just need His light to guide our path.

5. Which track on Light holds the most emotional resonance for you, and why?

Masterkraft: Definitely “Ezebube.” That day in the studio, we were talking about how it doesn’t make sense that God, in all His almighty power, would come down to die and save us. After that conversation, we recorded the song — and everybody started crying. It was so emotional.

6. How did the creative process behind Light differ from your previous projects?

Masterkraft: Light was completely different because it wasn’t just about making music — it was about finding myself and deepening my relationship with God.

In terms of technique, I used a lot more live instrumentation to capture that raw gospel energy. Everything was intentional; I wanted each sound to lift the listener’s spirit. For collaborations, I worked with faith-driven artists who shared the same fire for God.

7. You’ve stayed relevant in Nigeria’s music scene for over a decade. What philosophies keep you grounded and evolving?

Masterkraft: Talent will open doors for you, but character keeps you in the room. For me, it’s about constantly learning, staying humble enough to adapt, and never losing sight of why I make music. Trends come and go, but if you stay true to your purpose, keep refining your craft, and surround yourself with the right people, you’ll evolve without losing your identity.

8. Looking back, what stands out as your most memorable moment?

Masterkraft: I have so many, but one that stands out is the day I planned to hawk groundnuts. It rained, so I stayed home. That day, I went to a guy in my area who I admired because he played the keyboard. I asked him to teach me, and he gave me the basics. From there, I started playing in church. Looking back, that rainy day changed my life.

9. As we move through 2025, what should fans expect from you?

Masterkraft: I’m working on a programme for young people in music. Beyond teaching them how to make music, I want to help build their character. The industry is tough — talent alone isn’t enough. If they can combine skill, wisdom, and the right mindset, they’ll thrive, not just survive. I want to help them find their unique sound, discover their “why,” and give them the tools to stay relevant without losing themselves.