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Ok, yeah, this one was too easy to fall in love with… the first time we heard Winny’s debut single "Pretty," we were pretty much intoxicated and captivated by her luscious, layered voice and sticky melodies. Wanting to know more about her, her wool-based creations, J-Town, and more, we reached out to this amazing Nigerian newcomer, following the release of her self-titled debut EP.

Ones To Watch: Who is Winny?  

WINNY: I am an Afro-Reggae singer from Benue State, Nigeria — born and raised in Jos! To those who are unfamiliar, Jos (AKA "J-Town") is the Capital city of Plateau State, just right around the center of Nigeria. The city is home to and has produced several big voices in music (and entertainment) and I’m proud to be from here. I've since moved to Lagos, but Jos will always be home.

What is your debut EP WINNY all about?

Well, the EP WINNY is about love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. WINNY is who I am. It's an introduction to my life experiences, especially my romantic relationships. I've found true power when I've had to walk away from situations that hold me back, and I want to give that courage to my listeners. Hard times, although heartbreaking at times, have led me to become my best self.

 The EP is draped in a gorgeous but varied sound. How did you settle on which songs made the EP?

Oh, thank you! Each song conveyed a different story and personal message, so it was almost impossible selecting the sevent to introduce myself with. I'm constantly writing, so there is always more to come...

 Can you talk more about the producers on the EP? Any other collaborators?

All four producers I worked with on my EP are amazing and I love what they all crafted. It was super important for me to have synergy with the producers before we could create music, so that we were fully connected to my vision. I'm lucky to have reached that synergy with them. Damie ("Operation," "Ghetto Feels," "Kiss Me") and I connected almost immediately from our first session (“Operation” came out of that session); Jonn P and I made “Don’t Leave” off our very first session. I’ve known and worked with Wodemagic ("Pretty," "Burn") and Waji ("Boji") — the other two producers on the EP — the longest. Those are my Jos guys!

 How do you feel your sound has evolved since your debut single?

I am evolving every day, so my sound naturally does as well. I feel like it is a never-ending phase for me. learning and growing, so I am looking forward to how my sound will expand over time.

 Can we expect more songs in the future, potentially on an upcoming album?

Yes, most definitely. I will say you should stay tuned and put your ears on the ground. I also want to work with more musicians from all over the globe. 

 Besides this excellent EP, what else should we be on the lookout for?

Fingers crossed there’ll be plenty of surprises. Things are already in motion to give you all the best. 

What is inspiring you right now outside of music?

Fashion and design are other forms of art that really inspire me outside of music. I really love creating my own pieces, so I've launched the knitting brand WoolGypsy. I even knitted merch for the guests at my EP listening party as a special touch for the attendees. It was lovely seeing people appreciate my musical and physical creations.

What food do you crave most when traveling or touring?

I’ll say Native rice and fish. It is that meal that lights up my mood no matter how down I am.

Who are your current Ones To Watch?

There are many artists I have been impressed with so far but the likes of SGAWD, YKB, Kold AF, and Keziah Mallam are doing exceptionally well.