Music producer Olatunde Ajimajasan, aka Tobbydaniels, speaks with Tmaq about his life in the music industry.
Tell us about your background.
“I was born in Lagos, Nigeria, but I grew up in Ibadan, Oyo State, where I spent most of my childhood. I’m the third of six children. My early education took place at Christ Standard International School and later, African Church Grammar School in Ibadan. Although I started out in academics, my true passion has always been music. After completing my secondary education, I pursued a degree in Music and Economics at the Federal College of Education and later studied Economics at the National Open University. From a young age, I knew music was my calling, and it’s always been my main focus. Even before I entered university, I was already determined to follow this path, and I have no regrets about that decision.”
How did you get into the industry?
“I started as a keyboard player in church. My dad was the church music director, so I had access to the keyboard and started playing from a young age. I fully dove into music production when I got to university. I familiarized myself with production software and began making jingles for politicians and adverts. Over time, I’ve worked with artists like Moses Bliss, Kizz Daniel, Falz, Sound Sultan, Bayo Daniels, Pelumi Deborah, and The Gratitude. I recently moved to the UK, where I’ve worked with several artists in my first year, and I’m currently working on my long-awaited EP, which my fans have been asking for. Music is my passion, and I didn’t start for fame or money; I do it because I love it.”
What challenges did you face when you started your career?
“It’s hard for a child to choose the creative arts, especially when parents from an older generation believe you must follow a traditional academic path. It wasn’t easy, but I convinced them, as they knew I had always been musically inclined. When they saw my progress and success, they understood. Family is important to me, especially coming from a Christian home, so I strive to do well wherever I am. They eventually gave me their blessing.”
Where do you draw inspiration from when making new music?
“My inspiration comes from God, life, emotions, nature, experiences, and sometimes, even from myself. I don’t limit my creativity. I keep my mind open to different influences.”
What are your hobbies?
“I’m a huge gamer and enjoy chatting and traveling to new places. Although music takes up most of my time, I try to explore other interests whenever I can.”
How do you like to dress?
“I love to look good, different, and unique. A bit of jewelry and nice perfumes add to my style. I don’t dress to fit a particular image.”
Who are your role models?
“I’m inspired by the results. If you’re excelling in your field and I can learn from you, I’m drawn to you.”
Have you enrolled in music contests to push your brand?
“Yes, but I’ve never been fond of competitions. I prefer to be known for my work, not compared to others.”
If you weren’t a musician, what career path would you have chosen?
“I’ve always known I’m not cut out for a white-collar job. If I weren’t doing music, I would have pursued a career as a pilot. I still plan to study aviation in the future.”
