True mastery often requires patience—a quiet dedication to growth before making a striking return. For TMXO, the acclaimed Nigerian producer and DJ, the journey back to the limelight is symbolised by the release of ‘Fuji’. This comeback signals not just a return but a powerful evolution, reminding the Nigerian and broader African music community that real artistry matures with time before reemerging with new depth and innovation.
Following a period away from centre stage, TMXO steps back into the spotlight with notable force on Adekunle Gold’s latest album. The Grammy-nominated talent injects his distinctive sound into a series of standout tracks—‘Big Fish’ (Produced), ‘Love Is an Action’ (Co-writer & Producer), ‘Attack’ (Co-produced), ‘Oba’ (Produced & Co-writer), and ‘Believe’ (Co-produced). These contributions exemplify not only his technical expertise but also his ability to energise Afrobeats with both global ambition and deep local roots.
TMXO’s sonic imprint is evident across the album. He draws listeners in with rumbling basslines, expansive synths, and crisp rhythms—creating music that feels as much designed as composed. Unlike many hitmakers who chase fleeting trends, TMXO constructs expansive soundscapes where Afrocentric soul and electronic finesse exist side-by-side. Each record radiates intention: daring in execution, yet underscored by a sense of intimacy and contemporary African identity.
On ‘Big Fish’, TMXO boldly marries heritage with innovation. The opening is marked by a sample reminiscent of classic Fuji music—a genre long celebrated in Nigeria for its intricate percussion and storied history. Yet, TMXO’s signature is unmistakable: he polishes traditional sounds with immaculate production, making every drum snap and vocal layer resonate with both authenticity and modern clarity.
Adekunle Gold rises to the occasion, effortlessly blending lyricism and melody. His delivery—somewhere between seasoned rapper and soulful singer—sits perfectly atop TMXO’s intricate arrangement. Layer after layer of sound, from subtle percussion to atmospheric melodic details, results in a listening experience that balances raw energy with calculated precision.
‘Oba’ takes a uniquely regal and spiritual turn, distinguished by evocative call-and-response choruses that echo African ancestral traditions. The effect is nostalgically powerful, as if the song channels both the past and present—merging retro sensibilities with ultra-clean modern production techniques. The track’s arrangement allows the vocals to breathe and reverberate, giving listeners the sense of a ceremony preserved in digital high fidelity.
Lyrically, “Oba” is sharp and intentional—a clear nod to heritage and the balancing act inherent in modern African music. The production walks the fine line between minimalism and richness, resulting in a sound that feels purposeful and true to its roots. Then comes ‘Love Is an Action’—a cut that stands out for its textured, groove-laden design. TMXO crafts a lush sonic bed where every instrument pulses with the song’s emotion, from the subtle bounce in the percussion to the ethereal flow of the synths and chord progressions. According to Lagos-based producer Chuka Onwudiwe, “This is music that not only entertains but links the evolving sound of Afrobeats to its deeper, spiritual core.”
TMXO’s influence, however, extends far beyond this latest project. He has been instrumental in shaping the international sound of Afrobeats for years. He co-produced Burna Boy’s “Different,” featuring global icons Damian Marley and Angélique Kidjo, a track from the Grammy-nominated album ‘African Giant’. His fingerprints are on Tiwa Savage’s ‘Celia’, and his unique production style defined the bounce of Oxlade’s “Want You” and the dynamic vibrance of “Electricity” by Pheelz and Davido. As industry analyst Nneka Ekezie notes, “TMXO consistently reimagines Afropop and pushes boundaries, helping export Nigeria’s sound across Africa and far beyond.”
TMXO’s story traces back to the early 2010s, a period many see as a watershed era for modern Nigerian music. From the outset, he managed to bridge the gap between commercial success and artistic experimentation—a rarity in the Afrobeats scene. His career exemplifies the struggle many creatives face: gaining mainstream traction while staying true to their own sound. As Nigerian music expert Ayo Lawal reports, TMXO spent these formative years learning “the art of subtlety and reinvention.”
His body of work is diverse and influential. Early collaborations like Ice Prince’s ‘Mutumina’ demonstrated his production acumen, while partnerships with Lady Donli and BNXN on ‘Making the Mavericks’ showcased his versatility. His experimental EPs—‘TMX001: Alàdélobà’ and ‘TMX002: X & The Machine’—cemented his reputation as a trendsetter. In an industry where chasing fads is all too common, TMXO is seen as someone who starts movements rather than follows them, according to music journalist Seun Ogunyemi.
The collaboration with Adekunle Gold feels like the natural peak of TMXO’s musical journey so far—a testament to his artistic maturity and command of his craft. Each song produced or co-written on the album demonstrates a delicate equilibrium: the push-and-pull between creative experiment and mainstream appeal, between instinct and calculated technique. For many local listeners and international fans, this partnership embodies the best of what Nigerian pop is capable of when traditional sounds are allowed to evolve.
TMXO’s resurgence is more than a return to production credits—it’s a subtle revolution that highlights the transformative power of patience and artistry. As Afrobeats continues to scale global charts and Ghanaian, South African, and international artists draw inspiration from West African rhythms, the presence of innovators like TMXO ensures that Nigeria remains at the cutting edge.
The rise, pause, and comeback of TMXO tell a broader story about the Nigerian creative industry itself: a landscape marked by resilience, reinvention, and constant negotiation with the wider world. As major cities like Lagos and Accra become even more central in the global music ecosystem, observers agree that only those willing to innovate—while respecting cultural tradition—will lead the next generation of artists.
What do you think about TMXO’s comeback and his impact on the new wave of Afrobeats? Do you believe more producers should embrace experimentation with local sounds? Drop your thoughts in the comment section and let us know how you see the future of African music. Stay connected with us for more in-depth profiles and entertainment updates!
We’d love to showcase your voice! Send your story ideas, experiences, or even story sales enquiries to story@nowahalazone.com and you could be our next highlighted voice.
For feedback, questions, or general support, reach us at support@nowahalazone.com.
Don’t forget to join the conversation on our socials—follow us on
Facebook,
X (Twitter), and
for more music news, artist profiles, and the latest from Africa’s vibrant entertainment scene!
