Meet Firstklaz: The Fresh Sound of Storytelling and Culture…
Our next feature in the Who’s Next in Afrobeats series spotlights our Gen Z Arewa creative force, FIRSTKLAZ—an artist on a mission to redefine nostalgia for a new era.
Known for collaborating with seasoned music veterans, he crafts a feeling of “déjà vu” through deliberate, vintage-styled sounds and visuals. By leading boldly with his roots, he brings the musical identity of Northern Nigeria into mainstream conversations and firmly positions himself as a future powerhouse of Afrobeats.
In this exclusive interview, Firstklaz talks about his latest music, reveals the inspirations behind his music, and explains how aesthetics and culture help him translate his sound to a global audience…
Where are you based?
Abuja, Nigeria
What’s the story behind your artist name? I was book-smart in my secondary school and I usually get first position every end of term so my class mates started calling me Firstklaz and it stuck.
Which song would you pick as a perfect introduction to your Music? Maria, it’s technical and creative and that’s one of the things I’d like to be known for.
What is the ultimate impact you hope your music has on the Nigerian music industry? I want to redefine how we see nostalgia. I want to create a new lane where storytelling, culture, and fresh sounds can coexist. My goal is to inspire artists to be fearless and original.
What’s one piece of music Instrument that is essential to your sound? Dark bass, natural/environmental sounds(wind,air, rivers etc)
Tell us about your latest EP, Dejavu. What’s the story behind it? Déjà Vu is a journey through memories you never lived but somehow feel. I worked with old local men (iliya entertainment) to give it a timeless, soulful edge. Their energy mixed with my sound created something nostalgic but fresh. The EP is about reconnecting with the past while pushing culture forward.
What’s the most used app on your phone right now? Youtube
How important are visuals and fashion in communicating your sound to the world? Extremely important. My music is nostalgic, and my visuals and outfits make you feel that same atmosphere. I mix vintage Nigerian aesthetics with modern fashion clean, universal, commercial looks that still carry story and identity.
Complete this sentence: “The future of Nigerian music is FIRSTKLAZ.”
What’s your favorite street food and why? Beans and Garri, that’s one food i grew up eating almost daily, because we came from a not very wealthy environment but partially comfortable.
Headphones or Speakers? Headphones but Headphones when I’m creating. Speakers when I’m celebrating.
