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We often do a disservice to ourselves not widening our gaze musically, crossing oceans & borders because simply put, good music is everywhere & Zinoleesky of Nigerian Afro-pop fame is a confident example of just that. With his sophomore album, ‘Gen Z’ Azeez Shina Oniyide aka Zino effortlessly mixes serums of divergent genres in a way that is truly impressive and immersive. Needing to know more about this super handsome talent, we dove into modeling, dream venues, spicy food, and more. 

OnesToWatch: Who is Zinoleesky, and why is he so handsome?

Zinoleesky: Zinoleesky is a lit artist from Nigeria, bringing street pop to the world! Thanks lol, the looks, I can’t say exactly why, but we give all glory to God and to my parents.

What is ‘Gen Z’ all about?

'Gen Z' shows the full range of who I am, beyond street bangers. I’m vulnerable, reflective, experimental. It’s the first time I fully owned my narrative from sound to storytelling. It’s my world, true feelings and escape.

How would you best describe your sound,d and what is it rooted in?

I would describe my sound as street pop, rooted in culture, tradition with a mix of alte, afrobeats, ampiano and hip-hop.

Any collaborations or features? Who produced the album?

Yes I have a couple of collaborations on the album. We have Ms Banks, Donaeo, and Young T & Bugsey for my UK fans, D’yani from Jamaica as I love dancehall, Didi for my francophone supporters, and Toosii from USA for my African American supporters and US listeners. On the production side, I worked with some of my longtime collaborators including Babybeats, Lekaa Beats, and Niphkeys.

How do you feel about Nigerian music popping off globally?

I feel happy to be alive at this moment and also to be part of the rising, right now the whole world’s attention is on Nigerian music and I’m glad that myself and other artists are giving it our all.

What's your dream concert venue and who are you performing with?

My dream concert venue is O2 Arena in London. That would be a massive milestone to perform there. I’ll bring out everyone I have features with.

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

I’m ready to get back on the road so hopefully a tour announcement and festivals very soon. Also everybody I meet keeps saying I need to model so I might give it a try, I’m always told I have a unique look, maybe it’s time to get into my modelling bag too.

What's inspiring you right now outside of music?

My kids, My family, My faith, and the dream to be successful long term.

Meal you most crave when you are on the road away from home?

Anything spicy, I miss spicy Nigerian food.

Who are your OnesToWatch?

I really like Joe Blaq, Emo Grae, Ayo Maff, and these two kids I did a song with in traffic called Timmy and Remzel.