The Ogechi Effect: How BoyPee Became Afrobeat’s Newest Star

In this exclusive interview Nigerian singer, Sopuru Precious Odunze, popularly known by the stage name, ‘Boypee’ talked about what triggered his collaboration with singers, Brown Joel and Hyce on his hit track “Ogechi”. His influences and the way he handles the pressure coming from the music industry. The original “Ogechi” track gained massive popularity initially, but the remix featuring popular Nigerian singer, Davido catapulted the song to a new height. The remix was released before the megastar’s wedding, it took over social media, with many users incorporating the track into their online content, further solidifying “Ogechi” as one of Nigeria’s biggest hit song in 2024. EGUNGWU CHUKWUKA brings excerpts.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your family background.

I hail from the vibrant state of Imo, but I was born and raised in Anambra. Growing up in a busi­ness-oriented family instilled in me a strong work ethic and a com­petitive spirit. It’s this foundation that has shaped who I am today. Growing up I have always loved music and enjoyed singing and writing music. I knew I was going to sing professionally someday. I play songs often and I always tell myself that I am going to make my sound someday, from making freestyles and covers, here I am.

What inspired your stage name “Boy Pee”?

Before Boypee I was known as “SPee” which is a playful nick­name that stuck with me for a while. It’s a unique identifier, and I felt it represented the fun and energetic vibe of my music and my name, Precious. But it was difficult for new listeners to find my name when they searched for it, so I changed it to Boypee and I am loving it.

What qualities did you admire in Brown Joel and Hyce that made you link up with them for a collaboration in your hit song “Ogechi” the original version?

Brown Joel and Hyce are in­credibly talented artists with a unique sound. I was drawn to their creativity and energy. I have been admiring their craft online. We met at the airport on our way to Enugu for the Zyno campus tour. Their ability to blend different musical elements seamlessly is impressive. So I just knew it would be a winning collaboration.

Can you share with us how you got to know popular Nigerian socialite, Cubana Chief Priest, who linked you up with singer, Davido for the remix of ‘Ogechi’, as you revealed in a recent interview?

I have known Chief Priest since 2019 and he has been pushing me ever since then. He is my biggest influencer. His support has been instrumental to my career growth. His belief in my talent led to the incredible opportunity to collabo­rate with Davido on the “Ogechi” remix and I am forever grateful.

Who are your biggest influences, both locally and internationally?

I’d say Cubana Chief Priest, Davido, and Tekno. They have in­spired my creativity in different ways. Davido and Tekno’s sound is so unique and each song is a banger. I also admire their abili­ty to connect with audiences on a global scale and this is something I aspire to achieve.

How do you see your music evolving in the next few years?

I’m constantly evolving as an artiste, and I believe my music will reflect that growth. I’m excit­ed to explore new sounds while staying true to my roots. My goal is to create music that resonates with people on a deeper level and leaves a lasting impact. I want to continue pushing the boundaries of my music.

With your growing popularity, do you feel pressured to stay relevant and fresh in the minds of your audience?

While the music industry is un­deniably competitive, I approach my career with a sense of purpose rather than pressure. My focus is on creating authentic music that connects with my fans. As long as I stay true to myself and continue to evolve artistically, I believe my music will remain relevant. God that did it with “Ogechi” will con­tinue doing it.

What’s next for Boy Pee, any upcom­ing projects or collaborations?

The success of “Ogechi” has opened doors to exciting new op­portunities which I am so grateful for.I am currently working on big­ger, better projects that will show­case a better side of my artistry. There will definitely be more col­laborations. We are not stopping with Ogechi and I am eager to share more details as the project progresses.

NB: This interview was originally published in The Independent Newspaper on 4th January, 2025