Afro-urban music artiste Malex Betaboi has called for a national conversation on resilience and the often-overlooked struggles of ordinary Nigerians.
He said his music is aimed at inspiring hope amid hardship in the people.
Speaking with journalists in Jos, the Betterboi Mission Worldwide signee, said while his songs are drawn from personal experiences, their message are intended to resonate collectively.
“Like ‘If You Know’ and ‘Anyman’ featuring Lyta, among others, I want them to spark a conversation about the struggles people face behind the scenes and the importance of never giving up, regardless of background,” Betaboi stated.
The Gboko, Benue State-born singer described music as “my passion, my story and my way of connecting with people,” adding that his ambition is to project both his music and brand on a global stage.
Betaboi traced his passion for music to childhood, noting that what began as a hobby has evolved into a career.
He described his sound as “urban Afro with catchy melodies, and a blend of English and Pidgin,” adding that his uniqueness lies in “my voice, the honesty and the stories behind my music.”
“My biggest influence is life itself — my experiences, struggles, relationships and the people I’ve met,” he said.
He explained that his songwriting process typically begins “with a feeling, an idea or a beat,” and once he identifies the hook, “I build the story around it.” His single ‘If You Know’ holds particular significance, he added, “because it tells the story behind the person people see today.”
On the business of music, Betaboi said talent alone is insufficient to sustain a career in Nigeria’s current climate.
“Talent alone isn’t enough. You need branding, marketing, consistency, good relationships and business sense,” he noted. He added that economic realities have compelled greater strategy
“Everything has become more expensive, from production to promotion. It has taught me to budget better and be more strategic.”
On authenticity, he said: “I make sure the brand reflects who I really am. I create with a mindset that carries my identity, while still aligning with trends to some extent.”
Addressing the role of artists in social and political discourse, Betaboi said: “Yes, if they genuinely care about the issue. But I believe artists should speak from understanding and authenticity, not pressure.”
His recent EP, ‘Pain & Purpose’, is designed, he said, to remind listeners that “pain is not the end of the story. There is always hope and purpose beyond it.”
He also sought to correct a common perception about his work. “People might think some of my songs are only about pain or heartbreak because of the lyrics. But it’s actually about my real-life experiences, resilience, and how I’m turning my pain into purpose,” he said.
Looking ahead, Betaboi said fans should “expect more music, visuals, performances and a bigger Malex Betaboi brand.”
He announced a new single titled “Delilah”, scheduled for release on September 25 under Betterboi Mission Worldwide.
When asked how he manages creative blocks, the artist said he opts for a break to allow himself to reset. “I don’t believe in forcing creativity,” he said.
