Nigerian singer Lekan Osifeso Jr., popularly known as Lojay, has opened up about his early struggles in the music industry and moments when he almost gave up on his career.
In an interview with Punch, the ‘Monalisa’ hitmaker revealed that self-doubt and slow progress once pushed him to consider quitting music entirely.
“I’ve had moments where I almost quit music. There were nights I doubted if anyone would ever hear my songs. But those silent years shaped me; they taught me patience, resilience, and gratitude for every single listener today,” he said.
Speaking about the pressures of fame and how he maintains balance, Lojay explained that stepping away from the spotlight helps him reconnect with his faith and loved ones.
“Family, faith, and silence. Sometimes I just disappear for a bit — no music, no social media. Just time to breathe and reconnect with God and my people. That’s how I remember who I am outside the noise,” he shared.
Reflecting on his breakout single ‘Monalisa’ and its remix with American superstar Chris Brown, Lojay said the experience taught him that authenticity transcends borders.
“It showed me that music really doesn’t have boundaries. Chris came in with full respect for the record — he understood it, felt it, and elevated it. It made me realize that authenticity travels further than trying to sound ‘international,’” he said.
Addressing why it took time to release his debut album XOXO, the singer explained that he wanted the project to be emotionally grounded and genuine.
“I didn’t want to drop an album just to say I did. I wanted to live first — to experience enough emotions that could fill an album with truth. Every song on XOXO came from a real place, and I needed time to find that honesty,” he added.
Lojay, known for his smooth vocals and soulful storytelling, continues to carve his lane in Afrobeats with an artistry defined by introspection and depth.
