Azanti

Born Nathan Ayomikun Otekalu-Aje, Azanti is a Canadian-based Nigerian singer, songwriter and producer emerging as one of the most compelling voices within Africa’s genre-fluid new wave. Originally from Ondo State, Nigeria, Azanti’s artistry was shaped by a childhood immersed in music, where he developed an instinctive ear for melody, storytelling and production. Blending Afropop, R&B, soul, Afrobeats and trap-inspired textures, he has built a sound that feels emotionally rich, globally aware and deeply rooted in contemporary African music culture.

Azanti first gained widespread attention through his collaborative project YP & Azanti, Vol. 1 alongside PsychoYP under the Apex Village collective, with standout tracks like Focused and Caro helping establish his name within Nigeria’s fast-rising alternative scene. His growing momentum later earned him recognition from BBC Music Introducing in Manchester, before Def Jam Recordings executive Tunji Balogun officially signed him in 2022.

Since then, Azanti has continued expanding his artistic footprint through releases like Heart Parts & Nostalgia, a project showcasing his ability to balance vulnerable songwriting with immersive production. The album and its deluxe edition featured collaborations with artists including Odeal, The Cavemen., Adekunle Gold, Rowlene and PsychoYP, while records such as Gettin’ Hot and late4dinner (Remix) highlighted his crossover appeal and sonic versatility.

Beyond his solo work, Azanti has also earned recognition behind the scenes, securing writing credits for Mr Eazi and vocal contributions to Joeboy’s Police. Influenced by the storytelling depth of Drake, J. Cole and Kanye West, alongside the melodic foundations of artists like Wizkid, Wande Coal and Tope Alabi, Azanti continues to shape a sound that bridges introspection, rhythm and emotional honesty. As part of a new generation redefining the boundaries of Afrobeats and alternative African music, he stands out as an artist driven equally by craftsmanship, curiosity and vision.