The High Costs of the Music Industry – Cgaine

George Oluwaseun, professionally known as Cgaine, is a rising Nigerian singer-songwriter originating from Lagos, Nigeria, at a time when Afro-pop was dominant. Having started his musical journey approximately eight years ago, he has now launched his first single entitled ”
Jaiye x4
.”

Fueled by a profound affection for the musical heritage of Africa,
Cgaine
In his latest release, he has demonstrated a distinctive musical approach that blends whimsical components with reflective verses. The fusion of his classical inspirations and enchanting melodies offers an engaging auditory journey for fans of music.

During an interview with PM News Entertainment, Cgaine discusses his career path, his present endeavor, and various obstacles he has encountered along the way.

Who is Cgaine?

I’m an artist hailing from Ogun State, Nigeria, currently living in Lagos alongside my family. Coming from a modest household of six individuals with strong principles, I strive for personal goals and appreciate both life and the natural world around me. The genres of music I specialize in include Afrobeats, Afropop, R&B, and Afro-dancehall.

How was your childhood?

I come from a family of six (6), which includes my mother, father, and three additional siblings. To a large degree, my upbringing was filled with adventure and enjoyment.

My upbringing occurred in various stages; initially, I attended Monade School in Lagos during my primary years before moving on to Lagos State Model College Meiran for high school. Throughout this time, I developed an interest in events and decoration, often observing my mother manage these tasks uniquely. While I was drawn to both music and dance, dancing wasn’t something I pursued intensely.

I was deeply passionate about music but never let it interfere with my studies, as my dad had always been my primary source of motivation when it came to academia.

I spent my childhood in various locations across Lagos and Ogun States, which gave me exposure to diverse perspectives. My early years were divided between the neighborhoods of Ojodu and Akute before I pursued higher education in Accounting at Yaba College of Technology. Throughout my upbringing, I was involved in activities such as catering and extensive event decoration and management. Additionally, I developed a passion for live performances, having participated notably in the choir of The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) over multiple years on various platforms.

Walk me through your creative journey.

It begins for me with what motivates me, the setting I’m in, current events, and the individuals surrounding me. Additionally, my personal life stories shape my approach. My aim is to create music that narrates a tale relevant either to myself or to humanity at large. In doing so, I strive to turn these elements into tangible compositions through melody-making.

What led you to enter the music industry?

My journey into the music industry stemmed from wanting to share my own unique sound with the world.

Music has always been a delightful pastime for me since my early days, and I’ve gained experience through band performances and choir singing throughout the years. Being inspired by remarkable artists whom I admire and who dominate large stages motivated me to dive into the music industry and strive hard to perfect my skills, aiming for outstanding success.

For how long have you been active in the music industry?

I’ve spent around eight years working in the music industry.

How has the response been to your first single ‘Jaiye X4,’ which was released mid-April?

So far, the response has been incredible. While I still have a long way to go, I definitely don’t overlook the affection I’m receiving. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive because this song resonates with those who strive relentlessly towards their goals and aren’t afraid to chase after what they truly desire.

What was involved in creating this song?

It was a stunning creation from @shugavybz. We were all together during a lovely evening when I chose to express my positive mindset through music.

What level of difficulty does being a musician entail?

This route might be deemed difficult because of fluctuating earnings and the necessity for continuous self-marketing and networking. It demands significant focus and dedication.

What strategies do you use to juggle your musical commitments alongside responsibilities such as employment, personal time, and familial duties?

I simply focus on what I need to do without getting overly stressed when taking personal time for relaxation. This period allows me to connect with family and loved ones. Additionally, I believe my capacity to juggle multiple tasks contributes significantly to maintaining this equilibrium.

Could you share some details about your future endeavors?

I’ve recently released a track called “Jaiye x 4” and I’m currently focusing on promoting it. Besides having numerous recordings under my belt, I’m investing additional effort into crafting even better tracks. My aim is to drop an extended play (EP) during the final quarter of 2025.

What direction would you like to see your music evolve or change in the future?

My evolution is tied to the caliber of music I release, as I strive relentlessly in composing and teaming up with others, thereby opening doors to larger markets and broader audiences. This growth also stems from dedicating resources to enhance both myself and my musical style. By joining forces with other exceptional artists and highly skilled producers, this journey continues.

Could you talk about your journey and the challenges you faced while establishing yourself in the industry over the years?

Initially, it has been quite difficult to locate the appropriate producers who could help elevate your melodies to their full potential. Additionally, networking consistently over several years has posed significant challenges. Furthermore, the financial burden of producing music without stress has also proven to be a major hurdle. Engaging in the music industry essentially means being part of the entertainment sector, which tends to require substantial funding.

Where do you envision your achievements will be in the coming five to ten years?

I envision my music transcending boundaries and topping global charts. I imagine it positively impacting people’s lives around the world, with me receiving international recognition and acclaim for my musical style.

What qualities do you possess that you think qualify you as an excellent musician?

That would showcase my talent for performing live vocals effectively as well as creating music that resonates with real-life experiences. Additionally, I should highlight my skill in crafting memorable signature melodies that stay with people.

What difficulties have you encountered up until now?

This issue stems from the difficulties in promoting songs. It encompasses numerous factors including financial resources, social connections, and manpower among others.

Which musicians from Nigeria and abroad have had an impact on your work?

Many incredible musicians I can’t list them all here. Whoever creates great music inspires me, both directly and indirectly, to strive for producing something enchanting.

What would you do if you weren’t pursuing music?

I could serve as a Chartered Accountant and efficiently operate as an event planner, a role I continue to fulfill today and will always undertake. Additionally, I might work as a salesperson, bridging connections between buyers and sellers for my commission-based income.

Are you an independent musician, and is being part of a record label significant in this field?

Certainly, I am an independent artist. Record labels have significant influence because they handle numerous administrative tasks and processes that help develop an artist’s career.

Which prominent figures in the Nigerian music scene would you want to work with?

I’m a big fan of all these artists: Big Wiz, David, and Burna Boy. Additionally, I really enjoy Kizz Daniel, Flavor, Simi, Adekunle Gold, FireBoy, and Olamide. There are so many more I’d love to work with that it would be hard to list them all here.

When will you announce your next big initiative?

Project in October.

How do you envision the future of Afrobeats in the Western world?

The potential for Afrobeats is immense since our melodies can rival those globally, allowing individuals of various ethnicities and backgrounds to appreciate our tunes. This presents a significant opportunity for all of us because collectively, Afrobeats will keep asserting Africa’s presence on the global stage. Moreover, this trend will highlight and communicate the richness of our cultural legacy.