‘I Neither Smoke Nor Take Drugs’ — Oxlade Speaks On Church Upbringing
Afrobeats singer, Ikuforiji Olaitan, popularly known as Oxlade, has said that he neither smokes nor uses hard drugs, attributing his lifestyle choices to his religious upbringing and strong Christian values.
The ‘Ku Lo Sa’ hitmaker made the disclosure during a candid interview with gospel artiste Tim Godfrey, where he reflected on how his early immersion in church music helped shape both his character and musical journey.
Oxlade explained that he was raised in a deeply religious and musically gifted family, noting that his introduction to music began in the church choir, where he served in various leadership roles.
“I don’t smoke. I don’t take drugs. I was a choir coordinator for every age group — children’s church, teen church, youth choir and the mass choir. All my life, I have been in the choir,” he said.
He added that music runs strongly in his family, recalling that his grandmother was a deaconess and accomplished singer, his grandfather was a multi-instrumentalist, and his mother excelled in dancing, acting and singing. He also disclosed that there was a pastor within his family.
Describing gospel music as the bedrock of his artistry, Oxlade said his strongest songwriting skills were rooted in the genre.
“My gospel music writing is actually the best. Gospel music is the best music,” he stated.
Reflecting on his career success, the singer maintained that his rise in the music industry was divinely guided, stressing that his achievements were the result of God’s favour.
“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.
He added that as long as his steps were divinely ordained, he has little cause for worry about his future in the industry.
