Interview: Fast rising Nigerian artist ‘Mr. Dutch’ “Afro Cyborg” talks to Bafana FM Digital about his music and career.

Please state your Birth Name and Birth date

Bright Ukpabi – 26 06 1989

How long have you been doing music?

I have been doing music since I was 7 years old as church drummer boy, but I officially released my first single in 2017 so we could say officially 5 years ago.

Please describe your style of music:

My style of music is Afrobeats, that evokes a colourful Afrofusion feeling, drawing inspiration from live fuji music, highlife, American funk and jazz to serenade fans worldwide.

Who/What are your musical inspirations ?

I draw inspiration from the likes of Fela Kuti, Bob Marley, Buju Banton and many more legendary international stars.

Why did you choose to pursue music?

I choose music because its a talent and passion of mine that gives me peace and some fulfilment every time I create it or in the scenery where itโ€™s made.

What sets your music apart from other artists? What makes your music unique??

Itโ€™s Afro Cyborg infusion; The Afro Cyborg represents the voice inside your head that offers encouragement and support; you can do and be anything you want to be. Afro Cyborg is the sound of freedom, greatness and liberation.

What is your creative process for making music?

My music is very energy oriented; so depending where I am and what I am doing there, an inspiration is birthed and i take advantage to produce or sometimes co produce, then lay some vibes, I do all all engineering of my vocals and recording then I send it over for mix and mastering.

Do you play any musical instruments? (If Yes please list them )

Yes, Drums, Keyboard and a little bit of Guilter.

What do you hope people will achieve by listening to your music?

Fulfilment, happy vibes and fun.

What are your upcoming projects? What can we expect from you in the future?

I am currently working on an album project, that should be coming soon, I will share more lights closer to the time of release.

All about Mr. Dutch

A native of Nigeria, currently residing in the heart of Lagos amidst the hustle and bustle – Mr. Dutch is dedicated to making Afro-Fusion the soundtrack of our lives.

In 1989, Mr. Dutch was born Bright Ukpabi, a man with a musical bent from a young age. At just seven, a young Bright could be found rhythmically strumming as his church’s designated drummer.

Despite always being fascinated by chords, notes, and sounds, Mr. Dutch didn’t make his official debut until just 5 years ago.

As a musician, he burst onto the music scene with a sound that encapsulated his talent, culture, and undeniable future potential in the mainstream.

In addition to playing drums, keyboards, and guitar, he writes, produces, and engineers his music.

Afrobeats is a highly competitive arena, and Mr. Dutch has consistently perfected his craft while maintaining a joyous persona and unmistakable style.

As a newcomer, he thrilled listeners across Africa with mega hits such as Antidote, Keys To My Heart, and Eno Finish which featured the African Giant himself Burna Boy.

The multifaceted self-titled “Afro Cyborg” Mr. Dutch draws his lyrical inspiration from legendary acts like Fela Kuti, Bob Marley, Buju Banton, wrapped in an eclectic fusion of Fuji music, highlife, American funk, and jazz.

Afrobeat + Afropunk = AfroCyborg

Even though his music may knock you off your seat and make you want to move your feet, its meaning is far more profound.

Even as he puts the finishing touches on songs that will become favorites around the world, Mr. Dutch keeps his energy clear, his heart open, and his mind focused.

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