Tay Iwar is creating an artistic utopia for himself alone to muse through. He tells Wonderland about his new EP “WONDERFUL” and his enviable troupe of collaborators.

His artistry is held in high regard, his lyrics paint a picture for the listener, and his portfolio boasts a list of superstars. Tay Iwar is the epitome of hard work and showcases this yet again through his latest body of work

New EP “WONDERFUL” is the second release of the calendar year for Tay, who holds his projects close to heart. Each drop showcases where he is spiritually, emotionally and sonically at that period of creation in the studio.

After dropping the hypnotic EP, we caught up with Tay Iwar to discuss his music, being inspired, Tiv culture, future aspirations and much more.

Listen to “WONDERFUL”…

Let’s start with your new EP “WONDERFUL”. Can you give us the backstory on how this project came about?

“WONDERFUL” is an exploration into my culture, which is the Tiv culture from Benue State in Nigeria. It’s essentially made to dive into that culture, showcasing the way the culture is flexible and fluid and similar to other cultures in West Africa. It’s a showcase of Tiv culture through a median, which was already created, and that median is called Kwag-hir That is Tiv theatre. The EP is an extension of the theatre in Tiv culture.

The artwork is captivating. Could you detail what you were going for when creating the project cover?

The symbolism behind the mask on the lady is a spirit called the Mami Water. It’s a spirit present across all West African cultures. We chose that symbol because of the fluidity we are trying to showcase. Mami Water is one of the pieces that symbolise West Africa. Metaphorically, we are trying to say that West Africa is a fluid, unified, cultural element.

This project follows on from “Reflection Station” and makes for two EPs in a year. Are you preparing for an upcoming album?

I think it’s just a representation of where I’m at in those specific times. The result of “Reflection Station” was wonderful. In the process of making that, I was reflecting about my life. That’s what led me to my childhood, and wanting to showcase all these influences and the culture I was born into. It’s really just me being more present with music and not planning it out. Whenever I drop an EP, it’s going to be a representation of where I am at that time.

What’s currently your go-to favourite from the EP?

From this current tape, my personal favourite is DO YOUR THING. Lyrically, it encapsulates the energy that I’m taking on. It’s an inspirational song that you can dance to.

Were there any artists from the city that inspired you to take on music?

I would say my brother was the first person I saw recording. I wanted to try as well! He sings and raps. Seeing him, I was thinking it’s possible. It was mind-blowing to see as a child. In terms of artists that I listen to that would inspire me, it would be Marvin Gaye, Sam Cook, 2 face, Zule Zoo, Bob Marley.

When did you first discover your talents?

I was playing piano from the age of four. I guess I discovered piano first. At that age, I didn’t really know I could sing. I knew I could sing, but not better than most! Then someone told me that I’m really good!

You’ve worked with Wizkid, Dave, Pa Salieu just to name a few. Who would you say has the best chemistry alongside yourself when in the studio?

I would say Wizkid. In Nigeria, he is a national treasure! When he came into the music scene, everything changed musically. The vocabulary that was being used in Afrobeats. He’s a historical point in the history of Nigerian music. You’re already naturally inspired just by hearing his songs growing up, then you get in the studio with him and he’s the type of character that allows you to express yourself. You’ll end up being yourself and he fits in where he wants to. He will follow your guide, anything you’re trying to do, he can jump in and blend in.

What’s your personal process when making a track in the studio?

It depends on the day. The one that comes naturally is what I prefer. I could wake up, have an idea, go to the studio and put it down. I can also wake up, have no idea, and go to the studio and get inspired. Either way is fine with me!

What has been your career highlight for yourself so far?

There’s two. Being on Made In Lagos with WizKid and also producing the Black Panther soundtrack alongside Burna Boy.

What is something that you want to achieve which you haven’t so far?

I want to act. I want to be in the movies!

What have you learned about music since your last album Summer Breeze (2023) was released?

I’ve learned new ways of writing music. I think I’ve become better at playing the guitar. I’ve learned not to be so hard on myself in terms of being a perfectionist. Music is one of those art forms dipped in perfection. I’m also learning a new instrument, which is the bass.

Who are three artists currently at the top of your playlist?

At the top of my playlist is Shuggie Otis. He has a song called Strawberry Letter 23. Some old school vibes. There’s also Venna. His album has been on shuffle. Also, Kojey Radical. I’m on that album as a songwriter.

Do you prefer writing material for yourself or for other artists?

The thing is, when writing songs, it’s not for yourself; it’s your perspective for other people to listen to. If I’m going to write for someone, I’ll have a conversation with them, grab their perspective on a certain topic, then write their perspective for the masses. In my head, it’s very logical, but there are also different techniques. Sometimes an artist can’t give you their perspective, and you have to just figure it out!

What advice can you give to those who have the talent in music but don’t know how to take the next step?

The rules have changed since I first started. I think now it’s more about fighting for attention. If you don’t have a fanbase, post so much! Release a lot of music because you are fighting for attention. We’re in a hyperactive period of the world. If you’re going to stand out, you have to do something really unique that stands out and then do it all the time! Be really unique, be consistent and be frequent!

Words – Jordan McDonald