A Different Vibe with Yung L

Yung L, also known as Christopher Omenye, is signed to Chocolate City Music as well as a member of G.R.I.P Music. Born in Lagos, the musician explains, “I started singing at a young age in church and miming in school. Then I started rocking Jos and moved to Lagos a few years ago.”

Most people remember the musician from his songs, Pass the Aux, High Life and Shooga. He was nominated for MTV’s Music Video of the Year Award for his song SOS and recently he released his album Better Late Than Never. The musician talks about the motive behind his music when he says, “My inspiration comes from life in general and things I see and go through.” Guardian Life had a chat with the upcoming artist who talks about his career and his album.

How did you initially become interested in music? Was this the career path you planned?
I’ve always wanted to just create music and art in general. So yes, this is what I’ve always wanted to do.

How difficult is it to make it in the music industry in Nigeria?
I won’t say it’s difficult. I think it’s highly competitive, but when it’s your time it’s really your time.

Give us a slight break down of your thought process when you’re working on new music?
My thought process can start from the video idea to the tempo to the artwork. Or it can start from the title to the baseline and then the video. It all depends on the different vibes I’m feeling at that moment.

What’s most exciting for you about performing?
Connecting with my fans is always interesting and getting people to connect with the music in person is always a great experience.

What has been your most unforgettable moment so far?
The day I dropped my album, Better Late Than Never, because it had been a long time coming and I personally had waited too long as well. I also feel it’s the beginning of great things to come.

Tell us about people you have worked with, who’s been your favourite so far?
I’ve worked with different people from Poe to Ice Prince, MI, Sarkodie, Chopstix, Endia, Nicki Minaj, Major Lazer, Skales. My favourite so far has been Nicki Minaj.

Name the artists that inspire you?
Damien Marley and Jay Z are my favourite artists in the world because they inspire me immensely and I aspire to be like them.

What should your fans look forward to this year, any exciting stuff coming up?
My album just came out and that means more interesting visuals. New “Grip” project, dropping soon and definitely my mixtape.

Tell us interesting facts about yourself, especially relating to your work.
For my album, I didn’t put pen to paper. Everything came from my head and heart straight to the microphone.