Afrobeats star Ikuforiji Olaitan, popularly known as Oxlade, has opened up on why he stays away from smoking and hard drugs, crediting his deep-rooted Christian upbringing and musical background.
The Ku Lo Sa hitmaker made the revelation during a candid conversation with gospel singer Tim Godfrey, where he spoke passionately about faith, discipline, and how the church shaped his life and career.
According to Oxlade, his decision to avoid vices is not forced, it is simply a reflection of how he was raised.
“I don’t smoke. I don’t take drugs,” he said. “I was a choir coordinator for every age group; children’s church, teen church, the youth choir and the mass choir.”
Oxlade explained that his journey into music began in the church, where years of serving in the choir helped shape his character and sound.
“All my life I have been in the choir. I was raised in a musically inclined family,” he revealed.
The singer went on to highlight his strong Christian lineage, noting that music and faith run deep in his bloodline.
“My grandma is a deaconess and an amazing singer. My grandad used to be a multi-instrumentalist. My mum could dance and sing. I have a pastor in my family.”
While known globally for Afrobeats, Oxlade did not hide his love for gospel music, describing it as the foundation of his artistry.
“My gospel music writing is actually the best. Gospel music is the best music,” he said confidently.
Addressing public perceptions about his lifestyle and success, Oxlade stressed that his achievements are divinely orchestrated.
“Regardless of whichever perspective I am viewed, you should know that God is equally blessing me as much as he is blessing you.”
The singer also pointed to his international success as proof of divine backing.
“You can’t tour 40 cities with your debut album if God doesn’t want it to happen,” he added. “As long as God is ordaining these steps and movements, there is really nothing for me to worry about.”
Oxlade’s revelation has since sparked conversations online, with many fans praising him for staying grounded and open about the role faith plays in his life and music.