Today, we are joined by the award-winning artist Benjamin Uwah, known as Dabenja who has been in the music scene since 2011, captivating fans with hit singles like “Terere,” “Better Days,” “My Life,” “Poyoyo,” “Sugarbaby,” “Yakata,” and many more.

In our discussion, Dabenja tells us about his journey and his passion for music, his recently released EP, “Tribe of Benjamin,” his creative processes and the meaningful impact he is making in the society through his philanthropic efforts with the Dabenja Foundation.

Tell us a little about yourself and how you got into music.
I am Benjamin Uwah, known by my stage name as Dabenja. I am from Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria but I like to joke that I am from Lagos state as well because I was born and brought up there. I would say that my interest in music started at a very early stage in my life. Like many musicians, my journey began in the choir of my local church. I was a member of the choir at the early age of eight in the church I attended with my parents. I believe diligence in attending choir rehearsals over the years definitely helped shape my talent growing up.

You have been in the music scene for a while, how many songs do you currently have and what genre of music do you make?
My music falls under the Afrobeat genre and yes, like you said I have been around for a while, producing and releasing music, mostly singles. So far, I have 80 songs recorded and released a couple of them such as better days, my life, Poyoyo, Sugarbaby, Yakata and many more. Speaking about releasing songs, I have just released an EP titled “Tribe of Benjamin”, it is available on all streaming platforms. I encourage everyone to go and listen.

Does your newly released EP ‘Tribe of Benjamin’ have a message or theme that your listeners can look out for?
Not particularly. Every artist has their own approach to their craft, and personally, my creative process is driven by exploration and experimentation rather than a predetermined narrative or theme. Each song, to me, is a unique expression of emotions and experiences. I’m a Christian, having grown up in the church. “The Tribe of Benjamin” reflects life—it’s an expression of my journey, the realities I’ve faced, and those that many people can relate to. The lyrics capture genuine experiences.

The concept of The Tribe of Benjamin traces back to Benjamin’s time, and I aspire to establish a community called Tribe of BENJAMIN. This community aims to assist people in overcoming challenging realities while also serving God.

What would you say music means to you and does this reflect in your new body of work?
Music to me reflects culture, a combination of our traditions, beliefs, and experiences. I see music as a channel for healing, both for myself and for those who listen to my songs. Just like David in the bible, it is a means of expression, allowing me to convey the deepest emotions of joy, pain, love, and hope.
Moreover, music is not just a form of art but a means of survival, especially in a world where challenges abound. It is a safe haven where faith can be expressed melodiously, where prayers are sung, and where people can find solace amidst life’s stor

So, to me, music isn’t just a passion or a profession; it’s a calling, a gift from God, a sacred journey to uplift, inspire, and ultimately, to glorify the Creator through the universal language.
All I have described music to mean to me definitely reflects in this body of work because it consciously serves as a guide for me when I make music and I am sure when listeners listen to my music, they will see this.

Are there any special collaborations in this new body of work or is it a solo project?
This is a solo project, no features, no collaborations, I want the world to see and hear what I can do alone. Although, the project was influenced by a number of artists and genres that I find inspiring.

Beyond music, you are involved in a number of philanthropic activities, tell us about them and why giving back is important to you?
As an artist, I strongly believe in using my platform not just for creating music but also for making a positive impact beyond entertainment. One of the ways I do this is through my philanthropic endeavors which I carry out under the umbrella of my foundation, Dabenja foundation. These activities cut across various sectors including health care, education, and social welfare.

In terms of health care, I have been actively involved in some medical outreaches, offsetting hospital bills for individuals who are unable to afford medical treatment. It is disheartening to see people suffer due to financial constraints, especially when it comes to their health. By alleviating the burden of medical expenses, I hope to contribute to a society where everyone has access to the health care they need without worrying about the financial implications.

Addressing hunger is another critical aspect of my philanthropic work. No one should have to go to bed hungry, yet sadly, many individuals and families struggle to put food on the table every day. Through some of my feeding programmes, I try to play a part in combating food insecurity and ensuring that basic nutritional needs are met for all.

Education is also a cause close to my heart. I firmly believe that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering individuals to reach their full potential. That is why I am committed to paying school fees for underprivileged children who may otherwise not have the opportunity to receive a quality education. Education not only equips them with knowledge and skills but also opens doors to endless possibilities, ultimately enabling them to build better futures for themselves and their communities.

For me, giving back to the community is not just about fulfilling a moral obligation, it is about recognizing the privilege that comes with my position and using it to uplift others who may not have the same opportunities. We are all interconnected, and by supporting one another, we create a stronger, more compassionate society where everyone has the chance to thrive. It is incredibly fulfilling to see the tangible impact of these efforts, knowing that even a small act of kindness can make a world of difference in someone’s life. Ultimately, I believe that true success is measured not only by personal achievements but also by the positive impact we have on the lives of others.