When Chisom Obinna Onyeke, popularly known as JaySnths, entered the University of Abuja to study political science, he thought that after his graduation he would settle down as a political scientist. But he was orchestrated by divine providence to settle down for a career which he knew how to do best since childhood.
JaySnths was four years old when he started playing musical instruments at his parents’ church. His commitment as a keyboardist in the place of worship further enriched his talent and it came as no surprise when he was appointed musical director of a choir group years later.
His music career, however, took a new turn in Abuja in 2015 when he moved from being a sought-after keyboardist and bassist, to become one of the most notable producers in the Nigerian music industry.
JaySnths’ love for music was what he needed to make a career for himself, a path that has since turned into a goldmine for him.
“If I am not doing music, maybe, I’ll be working in an oil company or a reputable organization. I don’t like stress,” said JaySnths.
“I believe in making one’s passion one’s profession. Since I have a deep love for music I decided to make it a career. It is fun being paid for what you are passionate about,” he said during an interactive session with journalists recently.
Through his expertise on the job, he has made and impacted a lot of mega stars who have benefited immensely from his work in the Nigerian music industry. Today, JaySnths is one of the most sought-after producers in the country.
He has produced many hit songs which include Teni’s ‘Case,’ ‘Wait’ and ‘Power Rangers.’ He was also behind ‘Daz How Star Do’ by Skiibii, ‘Ozana’ by Hotkid, ‘In a Fix’ by Ice Prince and Mr Eazi, ‘Doh’ by Victor AD, and ‘Obiaato’ by Kuami Eugene, among others.
JaySynths, who has gone through a lot to horn his skills in music and sound engineering, said creativity brought him to where he is today, adding that “every day, I try to create something iconic. That improves and sharpens me enough. I have learnt lots of lessons, but the biggest one is being unique and relevant, or else you will be forgotten.
“I am able to stand tall today because of my continuous evolution and experimentation with new sounds. This is a perpetual engagement to which I have no intention of abandoning anytime soon,” said JaySynths.
Despite operating in a competitive and tough environment as Nigeria, JaySynths, who is married to a former beauty queen, Christy Daniels, was nominated for the 2020 SoundCity MVP Award in the African Producer of the Year category. To his credit, JaySynths won the Naija Gbedu Achievement 2021 award.
Speaking on what needs to be done to take Nigerian music to the next level, JaySynths wants a synergy to exist between musicians and producers, adding that a good working relationship with mutual respect will promote rapid development in the industry.
“Musicians should take producers more seriously. We actually should be the richest in the music industry but we are always not regarded. But I’m sure that would change soon,” said JaySnths, who was recently involved in philanthropic work, visiting the Osu Children’s Home in Accra, the Ghanaian capital.
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