Popular Nigerian guitarist, Ifiok Effanga, known by the stage name ‘Fiokee’, expressed his feelings of not getting the due credit for his contributions to the growth of Afrobeats in this exclusive interview with EGUNGWU CHUKWUKA BENJAMIN. Despite collaborating with popular singers in the industry, he feels he hasn’t received the recognition he deserves for playing a significant role in shaping the sound of Afrobeats. In 2008, the guitarist-cum-singer emerged the winner of ‘Star Quest’, a reality talent TV show hosted in Lagos. He played guitar in songs like: “Pick Up” by Adekunle Gold (The Guitar Version), “Ferrari” by Yemi Alade, “God Over Everything” by Patoranking, “Woju” by Kizz Daniels and many more. Excerpts.
How did you start your music career, and what inspired you to become a guitarist and singer?
I started in the children’s choir at my parents’ church in the late 1980s. Then, in the year 2000, I began learning to play the guitar from a taxi driver.
Your guitar-playing skills are exceptional; can you share with us your musical influences and how they have shaped your style?
I grew up listening to George Benson, Norman Brown, and Earl Klugh. They were just influencers; I didn’t allow them to dominate the way I sound. So, I decided to create my own unique accent on the guitar. I also broadened my knowledge by not limiting myself to only guitar players. I drew inspiration from various instruments and vocal melodies as well.
What inspired your new single ‘No Way’?
Over the years, I’ve been featuring artists and letting them sing while I handle the production side and own the masters/records. It got to a point where I wouldn’t be stressing them anymore, as they have their personal projects they’re working on. Everyone is looking for that song that will keep them at the top of their game. So, I decided to start adding vocals to my productions. I’m just a businessman.
You expressed online that you feel you’re not getting the due credit for your contributions to the growth of Afrobeats. Can you elaborate on what you meant by that, and what specific challenges or experiences led you to feel this way?
Yes, I complained about the industry not giving me credit for my contributions to Afrobeats over the past decade, since 2010. From ‘Scapegoats’ by D’banj, ‘Gobe’ by Davido, ‘Woju’, ‘Laye’ to Kizz Daniel, and so many others. So, the industry actually needs to give me my flowers. The way Afrobeats is being recognised globally, and artists are getting all the credits, but they forgot people like me who created the foundation and added spices and colours to Afrobeats’ global recognition. So, this is why I said that the industry is not doing enough on my own part.
You have collaborated with many top artists in the Nigerian music industry. What’s your favourite collaboration so far, and why?
My collaborations have been deliberate and strategic, with each song carefully tailored to suit the unique style and strengths of every artist I’ve had the pleasure of working with. I take pride in my skills as an A&R expert, able to identify and cultivate talent effectively.
What’s next for Fiokee? Any upcoming projects or collaborations we should look out for?
My latest single, ‘No Way’, has been released and is receiving widespread acclaim and attention. Currently, I’m in the process of creating my next project and body of work, which I’m excited to share with my audience soon.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians and guitarists looking to break into the industry?
Don’t be in a hurry to be out there if you don’t have a solid foundation. The game is tougher now. Be unique and different, so that you can stand out.
NB: This interview was originally published in The Independent Newspaper on 14th September, 2024.