Desmond Obianuju Enujeko is an Afrobeat singer, songwriter, producer, performing artist and philanthropist from Delta State, Nigeria. He is better known by his stage name DOE BILLZ. Our correspondent recently had a telephone chat with him about the challenges he faces as a rising artist, his musical journey so far, his collaborative EP release and his debut forthcoming solo album.

What is your name?

My name is Desmond Obianuju Enujeko , but most people know me by my professional alias “Doe Billz ” aka WOYO

Who is Doe Billz, where are you from? How did the name Doe Billz come about?

My name is Desmond Obianuju Enujeko, and I am from Delta state,Nigeria. The name DoeBillz came out of the first letters of my name D.O. E, and also the inspiration of taking care of financial responsibilities and having enough to cater to others. You know that dough or bread is also another slang for money, so Doe Billz is like saying I have the money to pay bills. My friends used to joke that I always had the dough to willingly take care of bills, for friends/family members especially when they are in need.

I have always loved the act of charity, so giving is second nature to me. Growing up was rough for me, I experienced first hand the difficulties of never having enough and so I vowed never to turn away anyone in need. I have always been inspired to work harder towards ensuring growth so as to show my creativity to the world.

What prompted your relocation to SA?

I relocated from Nigeria to South Africa basically to kick start my music career. In Nigeria the infrastructure was barely nonexistent and it was twice as hard for upcoming artistes to make their mark. So I decided that if I was going to do music as a career, I had to relocate to a place where a music infrastructure existed. I also knew I had to increase my fan base and have more engagement too. I also enrolled to learn music production, and so I can also have access to events where I can perform and hone my skills/stagecraft too.

Why music, what made you decide to pursue music as a career path?

Music has always been my  passion and safe zone, and growing up I had played drums in church bands and in school too. I also played at certain events back then where you are paid with food and drinks. Choosing to do music as a career was a better way for me to express and showcase the different creative skills-set I had. I have always loved singing and writing music.

You just released a collaborative EP titled AFRO FROM A TRAP HOUSE (AFATH, what is the inspiration behind that joint project?

Afro beats is an African sound which originated from Nigeria. It is currently getting a much deserved international recognition. People around the world are beginning to know more about Afrobeats around the world as we speak. Trap music belongs to the western world. So fusing both genres was a creative decision so we can come up with a sound that will be acceptable by both worlds. Afrobeats is built mainly on dance and melodies, and we wanted the album to draw listeners in with its melodic harmonies. The inspiration behind the EP has always been the daily struggles of life that occur around music.

You have earlier been featured on Blinx’s debut solo EP. How is it that you both work well together?

Blinx has always been a friend, colleague and a brother. We easily connected and shared the same inspirations around the music.

What’s your take on the global resurgence of Nigerian artists and music? Do you think it will last a long time or is it just a mirage?

Nigerian artists have taken the step to win Grammy awards and are now nominated not only in this award but other recognized awards too. It shows our perseverance and determination, it also shows the staying power of our music. Back then, it wasn’t like this, we had to constantly fight for a place by fronting our presence to maintain our status of being a giant of Africa and beyond.

We all know it is a constant struggle for every upcoming artist in the industry. What are some of the challenges you face as a rising artist?

The biggest struggle for every rising artist is promotions, getting their works played on radio. We face the challenge of always struggling to be heard and sometimes getting booked to perform at events is hard. Nobody wants to book an artist they don’t know or whose music they haven’t heard before. It’s frustrating for every upcoming artist because the radio stations only readily play music by already established acts. Some of them rarely want to give newcomers a chance.

How do you cope with the attention, both wanted and unwanted, from your fans, especially the ladies?

Ladies would always love and support talents regardless of the outcome, so I try to be at my best in maintaining this attention. I try to always be courteous and nice to my fans and avoid situations where I might be disrespected or disrespectful to anyone.

Who or what influenced you to pursue music as a full time career?

Doe Billz has always been inspired by events that occur on a daily basis in his life and this reflects around my music. The sounds of the great Reggae legend Bob Marley have also influenced the way my art is created and performed.

When you write your verses, what motivates you? Who are your influences generally? Which Nigerian artiste(s) have influenced your career?

Well, the lives of African legends Tuface, late Sound sultan, Duncan mighty and Timaya have influenced my music a lot. Right now I listen to more trap acts.

Do you have any upcoming gigs or tours planned? What should your fans expect from you in the coming months?

I always have upcoming gigs thankful to God for that. We have a tour planned sometime around summer. Details would be released when due.

What advice do you have for other upcoming acts like yourself?

Always depend on God, surround yourself with a good team, constantly be ready to grow and always practice. Also try to read up and be well informed about the music business.

I know you have a solo EP scheduled for release this year. How soon should your fans expect it and do you have any features on it?

I have a lot coming up, my team and I would unfold every detail soon enough, but I can say that this EP would change a lot of perceptions about me and my music.

If you have the opportunity, which Nigerian or Western artist would you love to collaborate with or feature on your forthcoming EP?

Well, I’m always thankful for my life and the grace abounding around it. I am gradually gaining recognition for my craft. And if I am opportuned, I would love to have a collaboration with Duncan Mighty, Falz, Davido and Da Baby.

It was a pleasure chatting with you, I wish you the best and look forward to your forthcoming projects.