Why Oxlade Says He Never Smokes, and How Faith Shaped His Rise

Afrobeats sensation Oxlade has shared personal insights into his upbringing and lifestyle choices, offering fans a deeper look at the values that guide his life and career.

Oxlade’s journey into music began long before fame. He grew up in a deeply church-oriented environment, where music played a central role in community life. From a young age he was involved in the church choir, progressing through the ranks from the children’s choir to the youth and eventually leading parts in the main choir. It was in this setting that his love for singing and performance first took shape.

When asked why he refrains from smoking or using hard drugs, Oxlade was candid in attributing his lifestyle to his upbringing and early musical roots. Despite the common stereotype that musicians often indulge in such habits, he made it clear that he has never smoked or used drugs, distinguishing his personal choices from prevailing narratives in the entertainment world. His foundation in church discipline and community values played a significant role in shaping this approach to life.

For Oxlade, music has always been more than a career, it’s a calling that came with deep spiritual beginnings. His time in the church choir didn’t just build his vocal skills; it instilled a sense of purpose and grounding that continues to influence how he navigates fame and artistic expression. He also highlighted that music has long been part of his family life, reinforcing both his faith and his craft from an early age.

Oxlade’s rise in the Nigerian and global music scenes came through a blend of talent, cultural influence, and strategic collaborations. His early demo recordings eventually led to major opportunities, and tracks such as Away propelled him to international attention. Today, he’s widely respected not only for his sound but also for the authenticity he brings to his music and persona.

This narrative of staying true to one’s roots resonates with many of his fans, especially young Africans who look up to artists as role models. In an industry often defined by excess, Oxlade’s choices reflect a different kind of strength, one grounded in discipline, faith, and community.

Oxlade’s story highlights how early experiences, particularly in church music and spiritual life, can profoundly shape an artist’s trajectory, influencing not just their sound but their values and public image. It’s a reminder that success in the music industry doesn’t have to come at the cost of personal convictions — and that sometimes, the most compelling rhythms are those of faith, focus, and self-discipline.