News

February 14, 2025

I’m turning pain into power through music – SoundboyGreg

I’m turning pain into power through music – SoundboyGreg

By Chris Onuoha 

Greg Eloghosa Clement, known as SoundboyGreg, was raised in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. His childhood was marked by absence—his father was never in the picture, and while his stepfather was present, the relationship was never solid. When he was eventually kicked out of the house, he was forced to face life’s harsh realities alone. The sting of rejection was deep, but in that darkness, he found music.

At first, music was his refuge, a way to escape the chaos and loneliness. But as time passed, it became more than just a coping mechanism—it became a calling. He surrendered to it, allowing melodies and lyrics to express the emotions he couldn’t put into words. Music became his lifeline, and he never looked back.

In 2023, SoundboyGreg made his first serious step into the industry with the help of his friend and producer, 808ng. The two worked together on an EP that fused Afro dancehall, Afro fusion, and hip-hop. With 808ng featured on most of the tracks, the project helped Greg build confidence as an artist. The only solo track, Bend It, gave him a taste of standing on his own. Inspired by that experience, he decided to experiment further.

By 2024, he wanted to evolve his sound. He had always been drawn to trap music, and with that in mind, he created My Grind, a December release that marked a bold new direction. The track’s hard-hitting energy and raw storytelling reintroduced him with a fresh edge, proving he wasn’t afraid to step outside his comfort zone.

Despite his willingness to explore new genres, his Edo roots remain deeply embedded in his music. The culture’s storytelling, rhythms, and expressive depth shape his creative approach. Whether he’s making Afro fusion, hip-hop, or trap, the essence of Benin City is always there, influencing his delivery and drive.

For Greg, music is about more than just sound, it’s about sending a message. He wants his songs to inspire people to believe in themselves, to push through struggles, and to embrace self-love. His own journey has been filled with obstacles, and through his lyrics, he hopes to remind listeners that they are enough, no matter what they’ve been through.

Balancing music with his responsibilities has been one of his greatest challenges. As the breadwinner of his family, stepping fully into music felt like a risk, but he knew he couldn’t walk away from his passion. He chose to fight for both his dream and his loved ones.

Now, with his upcoming Afro fusion single, Trash or Treasure, on the way, SoundboyGreg is ready to make an even bigger impact. His future goals? To work with legends like Don Jazzy, Jesse Jagz, Wizkid, and Wande Coal and to prove that pain can be turned into power through music.