Savage Xtra: The Rising Icon of Oyigbo

Uche Barry Nwachukwu, known by his stage name “Savage Xtra,” is an emerging force in the Nigerian music scene. The singer, songwriter, and performer has become a beacon of hope and resilience for aspiring artists and fans alike. With his infectious beats and uplifting messages, Savage Xtra’s music has the power to inspire and brighten lives, leaving an enduring legacy in the hearts of his listeners.

Savage Xtra’s creative process is a harmonious collaboration with his producer, transforming his ideas into soul-stirring lyrics. His breakthrough song, “Left and Right,” holds a special place in his heart, exuding peace and joy and inviting listeners to lose themselves in its infectious rhythm.

On June 6, 2024, Savage Xtra released his highly acclaimed sophomore album, *YBD: Young, Blessed & Dangerous*. His music draws deeply from his personal experiences growing up in Oyigbo, Port Harcourt, and the influences of music icons like Bob Marley, Michael Jackson, 2face Idibia, Burna Boy, and Wizkid. In an interview with our correspondent, Savage Xtra shares insights into his life, motivations, and future plans.

**Can you introduce yourself to our readers and tell them what you do?**

My name is Uche Barry Nwachukwu, popularly known as “Savage Xtra” or “Religious Fela.” I see myself as a street urchin who grew from the concrete jungle and became a beacon of hope and resilience for my hood and all those struggling around Nigeria. I am from Ehime Mbano.

**You call yourself “Religious Fela.” Why? How did that name come about?**

“Religious Fela” is an alternative name that helps me define the area of Afrobeat I’m coming through with. I’m a great believer in Fela, who invented Afrobeat, and it’s an honor to tap into his name. I’m “Religious Fela” (RF) to signify that I’m a different type of Fela.

**Who is Savage Xtra? Why the name “Savage”?**

Savage Xtra is a street soldier who believes in the traditional spirituality of our chi and gods. I believe that as long as you keep your hands clean and do good, it will always come back to you. I am on a journey to show every street hustler out there that as long as there is life, there is hope. The “Savage” part defines 50% of my personality, and the “Xtra” finishes it up because I don’t care what people say about me. Starting out, many didn’t like my music and said funny things, so the name suited me for the journey ahead.

**Tell us about your childhood and struggles growing up.**

Growing up in Oyigbo, Rivers State, taught me not to give up because the world is too big, and you never know where your journey will lead. My childhood and struggle centered on hope. It was rough, but I always held onto the hope of better things tomorrow through perseverance. I have come a long way from the struggles of belonging, strategizing, and targeting the Nigerian, African, and global markets.

**How do you handle the pressure of being a fast-rising artist? What are your expectations?**

I’m not here to chase clout or follow trends. I see myself as a one-man army, carrying my craft wherever I go.

**Your first album had over 23 tracks. Why? What would you call your genre of music?**

My debut album had 23 tracks because I had a lot of music to put out and needed to empty my shelves for a new beginning. It set a great foundation for me, and I enjoy listening to it every day. Besides, having a versatile catalog is always a plus. I am a performer first but want to be seen as an Afrobeat artist because most of my songs have an Afrobeat foundation. I also do a bit of trap, but I believe in Afrobeat.

**What motivates you when you’re in the studio making music?**

My music is centered around real-life experiences, things I have gone through, and things I’m looking forward to. Making music is easy because I know where my life is going, and I talk about the things that have made it easier and rough for me. I’m also trying to make music that the hood can relate to, spreading positive energy and touching lives.

**What’s your reason for making music? What do you aim to achieve, and where do you see your career in the next five years?**

I make music because it’s my talent and passion. I want to use my art to bring about change and touch lives, being the reason youths in Oyigbo don’t give up.

**You’ve released several videos for your album. Should fans expect more?**

Yes, the vision for this project is to make 2024 the year my fans see me in different ways. The goal is to be in their face until they get tired of me.

**Looking back, is there anything you would do differently? Any regrets?**

I live a life of no regrets. When I make mistakes, I learn from them and move on, focusing on the future, which I believe is greater than the past or what’s lost. Everything I did in the past was supposed to happen, and I don’t think I would have done anything differently.

**What are your plans for the future? Any club or campus promotional tours?**

Yes, we’re planning a campus tour and a club tour. We’re currently arranging the logistics and itinerary, and it should kick off before the end of the year.

**Do you intend to keep doing it independently, or are you open to partnerships?**

I have my own label imprint and other artists signed to it. I’m open to partnerships, but I haven’t found anything that meets my high standards yet.

**What’s your greatest fear as an independent artist? Any advice for upcoming artists?**

My greatest fear is losing it all or deciding to quit. Being an independent artist is tough, especially during the lows. My advice is to keep going and never give up on your dreams. Troubles might last for a while, but joy comes in the morning.

**Do you write all your songs yourself?**

Yes, I write all my songs myself. In the future, I might collaborate with writers, but for now, my struggles are personal, and I feel I can express them best.

**What’s next for Savage Xtra after this album?**

More music, videos, and projects. The whole label is dropping projects in the coming months. Consistency is key, and I intend to be consistent.

**Who do you look up to in the Nigerian music scene? Any international artists you’d love to collaborate with?**

I look up to Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Davido. They’ve left a big blueprint for upcoming acts. Asa and Tiwa Savage are artists I enjoy. Internationally, I’d love to collaborate with Fredo and Kanye West.

**How do you feel when people look down on you because of your struggles or refer to you as an upcoming artist?**

It’s better to be called an upcoming artist than nothing. An upcoming artist will always get past that stage, and that’s the phase I’m in. It motivates me to achieve more rather than triggering me negatively.