Popular Nigerian rapper CDQ has opened up about the bold decision to walk away from a stable banking career to pursue his passion for music.
In a candid interview with Echo Room, the “Nowo Soke” hitmaker revealed that he took up a banking job to honour his late father’s wishes, but the role didn’t bring him any personal fulfillment. Instead, he found himself constantly distracted by his passion — even during work hours.
“I found myself writing lyrics during work hours instead of focusing on my tasks. That was when I knew banking wasn’t for me,” he shared.
He recounted the turning point, which came when he confided in his friend and renowned producer, Masterkraft, who was not only accommodating him at the time but also lending him suits to wear to the bank.
“I quit my bank job. I couldn’t even tell my mum or any family member. I just left the house and moved into the studio with Masterkraft. I told him, ‘Banking isn’t my passion. I’ll do it to survive, but music makes me happy regardless of whether I earn from it or not.’”
CDQ said he assured Masterkraft that with focus, a breakthrough would come within six months — and it did. The duo soon landed a deal that lifted them out of the ghetto and into Lekki, Lagos.
His big break came in 2016 with the release of “Indomie”, a street anthem featuring Masterkraft and Olamide. The remix, which featured Davido, catapulted CDQ to national fame and cemented his place in Nigeria’s music scene.
Today, CDQ stands as a testament to the power of passion and perseverance, proving that following one’s dream — even at great personal risk — can lead to extraordinary success.
