Exclusive Interview With Antiguan Artist Tigua: Music, His Caribbean Roots, And New EP ‘This Is Lagos’

Antiguan recording artist Tigua has been traveling through Nigeria promoting his new EP “This Is Lagos.” From making his rounds on local Lagos radio stations to filming his music video for his single “Uptown Lover,” Tigua is sharing his Caribbean vibes and culture through his music.

AFROPOLiTAiN’s exclusive interview with Tigua, where he talks about his music, his roots, and what inspired his musical journey is included below. We asked him about his distinct influences and how he blends his own recipe of Afro-Fusion. Read our interview and watch his music video “Uptown Lover” below.

Can you tell us about your journey from Miami back to Antigua and how it influenced your music?

“The journey back home allowed me to get back in touch with my Caribbean roots, as well as the growing music culture there. Antigua is small, and therefore the music industry is also small. I was able to connect with a lot of other upcoming artist and build great relationships that inspired me to keep pushing and making good music. As soon as I had the opportunity I invested in a few items to make a basic home studio, and continued working on my craft.”

What was the defining moment that made you realize you wanted to blend Hip Hop, R&B, Pop, dancehall, and Afro swing?

“The first song I recorded was a fusion of sounds in it self. It was an afro type beat, with rap and dancehall verses. After hearing it, I really enjoyed the sound and saw the potential. I made a few rap songs, and then made my first solo afro beat song called One Dance. The single got a lot of good feedback so I then dropped a small project called Island Cure to follow it up, and have been making afro-fusion since.”

How do you describe your unique sound to someone who hasn’t heard your music yet?

“I would say to look out for good lyrics, a mix of accents, and positive good music.”

Who are some of the artists that have influenced your style and sound?

“I think I’m most influenced by the different genres of music themselves. Depending on the style of music I’m making I think I tap into a different artist that would have influenced me.”

Can you walk us through your creative process when making a new track?

“Usually I like to listen to beats, or have a producer start building a beat on the spot. I’ll then think of the message that I want the song to have, or a subject. I then just begin writing and free styling different melodies. Sometimes the hook comes first, or its a verse, just depends on the vibe.”

How do you balance your various musical influences when creating a cohesive sound?

“I just try to focus on the message that I am trying to put across. I try to make something that makes sense and sounds good.”

Your music is known for its upbeat flow and relatable wordplay. What themes or messages do you aim to convey through your songs?

“I try to convey messages of love, having good times, and striving to succeed.”

How do qualities like fun, humility, loyalty, and ambition reflect in your music?

“They reflect in my music through the lyrics and ‘vybz’ of the songs. I try my best to make feel good music that makes people want to have fun, and I have fun making it. I just released my new project This Is Lagos and I think it really shows off who I am and what I can do. The qualities of loyalty, fun, humility, and ambition reflect throughout all eight songs on the project.”

How do you hope your music impacts your listeners?

“I just try to make positive music. Something that’s going to make you dance, or cheer you up when you’re feeling down, even something you can fall in love to. I want to make music that people can sing to each other and feel the energy.”

Can you share a moment or feedback from a fan that made you realize the impact of your music?

“To be honest, I haven’t had that moment yet where I have met a fan who’s told me how my music has impacted them. ‘This Is Lagos’ is my first major release on this scale, so it’s still sinking in. I can’t wait to start meeting fans and hearing their stories and hopefully I’ve had a positive impact.”

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your music career so far, and how did you overcome it?

“The biggest challenge I faced in my life which impacted my career was the loss of my dad in 2021. That was a heavy loss for my whole family. My mom, brothers and myself worked hard to keep things in check and keep the legacy he built going. I put the music on hold for a while and was working with my family. With the support of my family, and everyone holding it down back home, I can continue this journey and really focus on the music.”‘

How have you grown as an artist since you first started making music?

“I have a great team around me now, there’s clear goals and a clear mission, I have people working hard around me which motivates me to work even harder. I want to keep growing and keep getting better.”

What can we expect from you in the near future? Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re excited about?

“There’s definitely a lot more music coming, so look out for that for sure. I’ve been working hard so I can’t wait for the fans to hear it. For now, ‘This Is Lagos’ is out now on all platforms so go check that out, and check out the official music video for ‘Uptown Lover.'”

How do you see your music evolving in the next few years?

“As I continue to grow as a person, I think my music will evolve too. Also the more I work with other artist, and producers, and continue to work on my craft, it can only get better.”

What advice would you give to aspiring artists who are trying to find their own unique sound?

“I would say believe in yourself, and work on your craft. The hardest part is finding your confidence. But once you do, that’s when the magic happens.”

How important is it to stay true to oneself in the music industry, and how have you managed to do so?

“I think it’s the most important thing. A lot of people will try to influence you, or change your values. It’s important to remember who you are, where you come from and your values. Ive done this by surrounding myself with good people who want the best for me. It’s all about a good support system.”

Watch Tigua’s newest video “Uptown Lover” below.

Featured image provided by Tigua’s team. Photos of Tigua in Lagos via Instagram / tigua_official.