For Sanni Olasunkanmi, music isn’t just a career—it’s a journey of selfexpression, resilience, and creativity. Through his debut single Kekeshu, he introduces a sound that is both fresh and unforgettable.
Please introduce yourself and tell us a little about your background?
My name is Sanni Olasunkanmi, popularly known as Kekeshu or Keketuga. I was born in the UK but raised by my grandmother here in Nigeria. I have been doing music for over a decade, but I started pursuing it professionally about five years ago.
As an upcoming artist, what inspired you to pursue music, and how did that journey lead to the release of Kekeshu?
Music has always been my natural way of expressing myself. Growing up, I listened to Southern White Line, but what really inspired me was Da Grin’s breakthrough. After his passing, I listened to his songs a lot, and that pushed me into music. That’s when I decided to start my career.
The title Kekeshu is unique and eye-catching. What does it mean, and why did you use it for your new single?
Kekeshu is more than just a name. It represents identity, energy, and personality.
How would you describe your sound and style to people hearing your music for the first time?
I started with Da Grin’s style of rap, but now my sound is a mixture of Afrobeats with my own unique vibe. It’s energetic, yet meaningful.
As an emerging artist, what was the process like creating Kekeshu with the resources you had available?
I didn’t have everything I needed at the beginning. Luckily, when I started, my grandmother had a tenant who was a producer. I was the youngest in a group of about twenty artists. I was a teenager then, running errands for them, but slowly I developed myself. It all happened like a dream.
Did you face any challenges while recording or producing the track? How did you overcome them?
I first wrote Kekeshu in 2015 and recorded it countless times. Initially, it was mainly rap. Later, I tried an Afro-pop version, but it still wasn’t what I wanted. In 2018, Larry Lance, who also produces for Seyi Vibez, created a beat for me. Then last year, I met a saxophonist who was playing a Fela-inspired sound. I freestyled on the beat while he played, and it perfectly matched what Larry had produced. That’s how the final version came together.
Who or what influenced the direction of the song and music video?
Like I said earlier, I started with rap, but I listened to many artists to improve myself. In 2020, I attended a music school, which gave me direction. I also draw inspiration from different genres of music.
The music video for Kekeshu is bold and stylish. How important was it for you, as a new artist, to establish a visual identity with this project?
As a new artist, people don’t only hear your music, they see you. I wanted my first video to reflect confidence and creativity. It shows that I was born to be a street artist, but also a good artist in general.
What was your favorite moment while shooting the video, and why does it stand out?
My favorite moment was seeing everything come together, the energy, the talent, and the effort of the crew. It stood out because it was proof that my dream was becoming reality.
How do you want your audience to feel when they watch the Kekeshu video for the first time?
I want them to feel excited and connected, like they just discovered something
fresh. I want it to spark light in them.
What was your childhood like, and how did it shape the kind of music you create today?
I grew up in an extended family where my cousins, uncles, and grandmother listened to different genres. Everyone loved one type of music or another, so I picked from each, Fuji, hip-hop, and more. My family and community inspired me because they were very supportive.
Who are some of your biggest role models, musically or personally, and how have they influenced you?
Da Grin will always be my first inspiration; the first time I ever touched a mic was to do his style. Burna Boy inspires me personally, and my dad has taught me consistency and determination, he always achieves whatever he sets his mind to, no matter how long it takes.
Outside of music, what are you passionate about that fans might not know?
I love creativity in general, fashion, spirituality, and storytelling. I also enjoy connecting with people because conversations inspire my music.
How does your family or community feel about your pursuit of music, especially as an upcoming artist?
At first, my family was cautious. My dad especially wasn’t supportive. But one day, I sent him a demo, and he loved it. That convinced him, and he supported my first EP. Since then, he has been fully behind me.
As someone still building your fan base, what do you hope listeners take away from Kekeshu?
I hope they feel the energy and originality. I want them to remember that Kekeshu stands for boldness and joy. It’s something different from the usual sound they hear.
Have you been surprised by any early reactions or support since its release?
Yes! Just two days ago, a well-known producer messaged me on Instagram saying he liked my sound and wanted us to work together. It was unexpected, but it confirmed that I did a good job.
How do you plan to connect with more fans and spread your music to a wider audience?
Through consistency. I’ll keep dropping quality content, use social media to connect, perform live, and collaborate with other artists to reach more listeners.
Every upcoming artist faces challenges. What has been your biggest challenge?
My biggest challenge so far has been limited resources. But I see it as temporary. Creativity, consistency, and faith in the bigger picture keep me going.
What sets you apart from other emerging artists in today’s music scene?
I’m not trying to copy anyone. I’m building my own style, my own sound, and even my identity is very different.
Where do you see yourself in the next few years, and how does Kekeshu fit into that vision?
In the next two years, I see myself as a recognized artist with a strong global fan base. Kekeshu is the foundation of that journey.
What lessons have you learned so far as a new artist trying to make an impact in the industry?
I have learned patience, consistency, and the importance of staying true to yourself and being original.
Can fans expect more singles, an EP, or collaborations after Kekeshu?
Definitely. I’m working on more singles, I’ll be dropping about three by December, possibly as an EP. The next one on my list is called SPIRITUAL.
Finally, what message do you want to share with people just discovering you through this song and interview?
I will say thank you for giving me your listening ear and your time. I want you to know that my music comes from a real place, and I will keep giving you fresh vibes and please stay with me in this journey.
