Afrobeats singer Ikuforiji Olaitan, popularly known as Oxlade, has disclosed that he does not smoke or engage in hard drug use, attributing his lifestyle choices to his strong family and religious background.
Speaking in an interview with gospel singer Tim Godfrey, the Ku Lo Sa hitmaker explained that growing up in a deeply Christian and musically inclined household shaped both his character and approach to music.
Oxlade’s Music Journey
Oxlade revealed that he began his music journey in the church, where he served extensively in the choir across different age groups.
According to him, those early years laid the foundation for his discipline and artistry.
“I don’t smoke, don’t take drugs. I was a choir coordinator for every age group; children’s church, teen church, the youth choir and the mass choir.”
“All my life I have been in the choir,” he said.
The singer also highlighted his family’s musical heritage, noting that his grandmother is a deaconess and gifted singer, his grandfather was a multi-instrumentalist, and his mother could both sing and dance.
The singer added that having a pastor in his family strengthened his spiritual foundation.
Oxlade described gospel music as the purest form of music, stating that his best songwriting often comes from gospel-inspired creativity.
Reflecting on his rising success, the singer said God is behind his achievements.
He stressed that his career growth is evidence of God’s grace rather than coincidence.
“Regardless of whichever perspective I am viewed, you should know that God is equally blessing me as much as he is blessing you.
“You can’t tour 40 cities with your debut album if God doesn’t want it to happen,” Oxlade said.
“As long as God is ordaining these steps and movements, there is really nothing for me to worry about.”
