By Ifedayo Itunu

Obafemi Akinola, popularly recognized by the name Kingzon, is a dynamic Nigerian artist, singer, songwriter, and performer who is changing the face of today’s Afro music. With his fusion of Afro Pop, Afro Phonk, and Afro Trap, Kingzon is rapidly taking over the Nigerian music industry for his genre-blending sound, unbridled tales, and energetic live performances.

Early Life and Background

Living in Nigeria, Kingzon was born on April 27, 2001 in Ilorin, Kwara State. Hailing from Kogi State, Kingzon infuses his Yoruba heritage discreetly into his music identity, but his sound uncompromisingly delves into Afro Pop, Afro Phonk, and Afro Trap.

As a child, he was exposed to the sounds of Fuji, Afrobeat, and street music which shaped his musical identity and put him on a unique path later on. He was raised in a Yoruba family that cherished hard work and traditions, something that helped him navigate difficulties in life later on.

After losing his mum to Cancer and His Dad to Stroke Kingzon was faced with dire economic and set struggles. Despite this, he was able to focus his attention on music, leading all the way from classroom freestyle sessions to recording rough demos on phones.

Education

Kingzon’s primary and secondary education happened in Ilorin and Lagos respectively. After graduation, unlike most creatives who choose to study media-related disciplines, Kingzon opted to pursue a Bachelor’s in Agricultural Science given his passion for food security.

Early Life & Musical Roots

Kwara state, with rich culture and music, is where Kingzon spent his childhood. He was deeply influenced by family, especially his elder brother, who was devoted to music. Kingzon was also enwrapped with sounds from channels such as soundcity and mtv and later grew fond of it.

Later, around his junior secondary years, he relocated to Lagos. This further escalated not only his passion but also his goals, listening to the radio as well as being exposed to the businesses was fuel to the fire. One of Kingzon’s quotes perfectly summarizes this: “The hardest conditions make the greatest diamonds.”

Sound & Influences

He likes to speak about how his agricultural background keeps him rooted and how agriculture taught him patience and discipline qualities which have proven useful to him in sustaining the drudgery of Nigeria’s music industry.

Kingzon’s music dares to blend the soul of Afrobeat, the grit of Phonk, and the edginess of Trap, creating a unique sound that is different from others in Nigeria. Because of how he approaches genres, he is capable of switching styles, ensuring that his music is both new and classic at the same time.

Influenced by both local and global stars such as Kendrick Lamar, Olamide, Burna Boy, and Gunna. These musicians have made an impact through their deep lyrics, authenticity, and creative approaches to music. He is also blending aged traditions with futuristic sounds to forge a new path shaping narratives that actually resonate.

Musical Journey

Kingzon’s musical journey started as therapy. Fusing sounds from Burna Boy, Omah Lay, Travis Scott, and roots, he developed a sound that fuses story with bop.

In 2024, he released “Writing My Letters,” a breakout album of heartbreak and ambition, of betrayal and self-worth. His gritty lyrics and melody blend with tastemakers and fans alike.

In 2025, he followed with the “Life olf the Party” EP, coupling heavy emotion with dancefloor presence indicating his transformation from bedroom studio singer to revered live performer.
Kingzon developed his following from the ground up, making use of platforms like Audiomack, YouTube, and TikTok to distribute his work. With short-form material and word-of-mouth, his songs started reaching new ears, especially with Gen Z Nigerians.

University performances, content partnerships, and go-viral videos of his tracks assisted in his exposure. His ability to communicate with fans through real stories set him aside from the typical pop formula.

Music Distribution and Strategy

Kingzon utilizes streaming platforms, reels, and fan challenges to build his audience. He handles his releases independently, which allows him to have full control of his sound and brand.

His music is available on Spotify, Apple Music, Boomplay, and YouTube, where he posts official releases, as well as behind-the-scenes content.

Personal Life

Kingzon is a very reserved person when it comes to his personal life but speaks openly about his religion, family, and life. He often speaks about his mother as his biggest inspiration.

Despite being focused on His music Career, he still returns to his hometown occasionally and hopes to invest in youth agriculture-related programs in Kwara State.

Challenges and Controversies

While Kingzon has skirted significant industry beef or scandal, he has talked openly about the pitfalls of being an independent artist most notably financial hardship, lack of support, and the emotional toll of chasing a dream on shoestring resources.

Career Highlights

Aug 2024: Released Writing My Letters, Kingzon’s debut album which is powerfully introspective, focusing on love, hustle, and self-worth.

Feb 2025: Released his sophomore project, an EP titled, Life of the Party. This showcased his knack for vibrant partying alongside the depth of Afro-centrism.

Transitioned into cross-genre collaborations by working on a single with Flow Andrews, his first major project.

Performed at Kwara Youth Fest, UNILORIN Vibes Concert, and Alté Street Festival

Songs playlisted on Apple Music Naija New School and Spotify Fresh Finds Africa

Built a loyal fan base of 60,000+ followers on all platforms

Radio Presence: Kingzon’s songs have aired on 6-7 major radio stations in Lagos and have an A-list status on many playlists across streaming platforms.

Live Settings: He has hosted his album listening party in Abuja and stunned audiences at the University of Lagos with his electrifying performances.

Vision & Impact

Kingzon is part of a new wave of Afro artists: daring, experimental and rooted in heritage. From self-love to street life, his music resonates with the contemporary African experience.

He’s trying to build a legacy, not just make music.

What’s Next?

Currently, Kingzon is in the studio working on his upcoming EP which is anticipated to be released later this year. His plans include expanding his fanbase across Africa and globally, and he’s still just getting started. It’s all part of his dream to encourage the next generation to embrace bold creativity and unapologetically be themselves.

Intentional & Independent

As an independent artist, Kingzon self-manages and funds every aspect of his career. The focus is not on social recognition, rather on artistic liberty. Step by step, he’s working on creating his brand, and with every beat, every lyric and performance, he aims to prove that authenticity reigns supreme.

Itunu, writer and profiler, wrote in from Lagos