After shedding the name LipsyBaby, which had brought him some early success when he first burst onto the scene in 2021 with his debut EP Story To Glory, his new stage name Gift OFA sees the British Nigerian musician reverting to his birth name Gift and embracing the ‘Gift of Africa’ moniker given to him by friends and family. His new EP Ebun-Oluwa, which means ‘God’s Gift’ in English, speaks directly to his renewed artistic vision and identity. The condensed 3-track offering is a deeply personal project that celebrates growth, and captures the artist that Gift OFA has become today.
Title track ‘Ebun-Oluwa’ opens the EP with Gift OFA reminiscing about his childhood, paying tribute to his hometown Edo State in Nigeria, and reflecting the determined spirit of a young boy striving to make it out. The next song ‘Majo’ stands out for its creativity and sees Gift celebrating divine feminine energy and beauty, with the EP closing out on ‘SOS’, a vibrant carefree track with playful wordplay, representing Gift’s multifaceted personality. Throughout the Ebun-Oluwa EP, Gift OFA delivers a powerful and resonant showing, testament to his versatility and ability to connect deeply with his listeners.
What is the ‘Ebun-Oluwa’ EP all about?
First, it’s essential to understand the meaning behind the title. “Ebun-Oluwa” is a Yoruba phrase that translates to “God’s Gift” in English. This title reflects my belief that my musical talent is a divine gift, something I want to share with the world. If I had to sum up the EP in one word, it would be “Growth.”
I’ve been evolving in every aspect of my career—musically, creatively, sonically, and even in how I present myself as a brand. Looking back at where I started, I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had, and for the growth that has come from doing what I love. Seeing how people appreciate my work today is a blessing, one that I believe is a gift from God and something that money can’t buy.
Why did you choose ‘Waterproof’ and ‘Deny’ as teasers before releasing this EP?
While I was dealing with legal challenges with Next/Lipsy London and going through a rebranding process, I was already working on “Waterproof” as my next single. It represented my sound, my vision, and was a complete sound from my debut project, “Story To Glory” in 2021. At that time, the “Ebun-Oluwa” EP wasn’t even a concept.
I was working on a different EP, and “Deny” was part of that project. I chose “Deny” as a teaser because it’s a soulful track that brings a lot of flavor. However, when I first heard the production for what would become “Ebun-Oluwa” in December 2023, I wrote the song immediately. I knew right away that this was the direction I needed to pursue, and it reshaped my entire approach to the EP.
Why did you change your stage name to Gift OFA? What happened to LipsyBaby?
In May 2022, after releasing my single “Fokus,” Google awarded me a personal knowledge panel, making it easier for fans to find me and my music online. However, this led to a conflict with the Next brand “Lipsy London,” and I received a copyright challenge to cease using my artist name.
At first, I thought it was a hoax, but after researching the firm, I realised it was legitimate. They demanded that I stop using the name “Lipsy,” which was difficult because it had been my identity since 2010, even tattooed on my arm. The legal battle was long, expensive, and emotionally draining. Eventually, my team and I decided to abandon the name and brainstorm a new one.
We settled on “Gift OFA,” combining my birth name “Gift” with “OFA” (Of Africa). Although the process was challenging, in hindsight, it feels like a blessing in disguise. The name change halted the release of “Waterproof” until January 2023, but it allowed me to embrace a new identity that feels true to who I am today.
What inspired your musical journey?
Music has always been a part of my life. Growing up, my dad would play music on Saturday mornings when he wasn’t working, using a turntable and asking me to wipe the vinyl before he started. I have vivid memories of dressing up like the late legend Fela Kuti, with powder on my face, chest, and beads around my neck, mimicking his dance moves. Fela became my biggest inspiration, even though I didn’t initially pursue music.
It wasn’t until 2011 that I made my first song and tried to feature Wizkid, who was another major influence. Although that collaboration didn’t happen, and shortly later relocated to the UK, my passion for music reignited during the COVID lockdown. Through God’s grace, I found my way back to music, and here I am today.
What’s the London Afrobeats scene like in your opinion?
The London Afrobeats scene is tough, gritty, and competitive. At times, it can be discouraging, with people suggesting that one may need to relocate back home to be successful. While there may be some truth to that, I believe success is attainable anywhere.
The UK Afrobeats scene I believe is still in its infancy and growing. Despite its challenges, it’s rewarding in many ways. I would love to see more inclusivity among UK Afrobeats artists and greater support from fans and promoters alike. Sometimes, it feels like you’re treated as a second-class citizen, but I believe the scene has immense potential.
What are some of your fondest memories from growing up in Nigeria?
I have a lot of fond memories from my secondary school days. I wasn’t exactly a model student, but I wasn’t bad either—I was somewhere in between. I remember the fun of running away from classes I didn’t enjoy, studying hard to get good grades in my favorite subjects, and the camaraderie that came with attending an all-boys school. It was a tough environment, but also a lot of fun. I was popular in school, especially with the girls from the neighboring school, and sometimes I miss the simplicity of those days.
What does it mean to be an African artist in your opinion?
To be an African artist means to be proud of your heritage. I love being called “Gift OF Africa” because it reflects my pride in being from this incredible continent. Africa is filled with innovative minds, hustlers, and immense talent.
Through my music, I aim to show the world that Africa is more than just the negative stereotypes often portrayed in the media. While it’s true that we face challenges, we’re also rich in culture, religion, charisma, and resilience. Africa deserves more recognition and respect, and I’m proud to be a part of showcasing its true essence to the world.
What are your next moves after you release this new EP?
While I like to take things one step at a time and stay grounded, I’m planning a UK city tour to promote the EP and eventually do my first headline show in London. I want to give people a memorable night and share my music with as many as possible. I’m also working on new singles, though I can’t say when the next one will drop. What I can promise, however, is that I will continue to grow and evolve as an artist.
