Exclusive Interview with YUGATSNO

For Yugatsno, a rapidly rising talent, going into music is more than just a side passion; it’s a calling he accepted before he was even a teenager. Yugatsno, a singer from Delta State whose real name is Amos Esuru, recorded his first song when he was just 14 years old. He was encouraged by his immediate family and grew up surrounded by pop, rap, and melodic music. He gained popularity in his circles and during his time in college.

Yugatsno’s goal is to achieve and even surpass the heights attained by Burna Boy, Don Williams, 2Baba, Wizkid, and Wizkid. Having already released songs like “Closer,” “Matter,” and “Jo,” Yugatsno’s ambition is unrelenting. He says, “My dreams reach far and wide,” to AfroDives. My dream is to perform to sold-out crowds at Wembley and arenas all over the world, allowing me to reach millions of fans with my music. If you’re looking for the next big thing in the Afrobeats scene, you have to know about Yugatsno. Check out the exclusive Interview below:

1. Can you tell us a bit about where you come from and how it all got started?

YUGATSNO: Born Amos Esuru, Yugatsno (if you dunno, then Yugatsno) a Delta-born singer who grew up exposed to melodies, rap and pop music. Where others struggle to convince their family of their passion, the artist got support from his immediate family and in no time became a popular name in his circles and in college.

From there, I’ve performed in college events and outside, recording more music and experimenting with different sounds, honing my craft, and collaborating with other artists. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m grateful for every step along the way.

2. Did you have any formal training or are you self-taught?

YUGATSNO: I am primarily self-taught in singing and songwriting. While I haven’t had formal training, I’ve dedicated countless hours to honing my craft through practice, experimentation, and learning from other musicians. It’s been a journey of self-discovery and growth, and I’m continuously striving to improve and evolve as an artist. listening to different popular African music (Afrobeat/Afropop), from the likes of Wande Coal, P-square, D-banj, Davido, Olamide, Zule-Zoo, Style-plus Yinka Ayefele, and just being receptive of listening and learning to just any type of music so long as it sounds good.

3. Who were your first and strongest musical influences and why the name ‘YUGATSNO?

YUGATSNO: My first and strongest Musical influences are Wizkid, Don-williams, 2Baba , Burna-Boy.

Yugatsno (if you dunno, then Yugatsno) as in (IF YOU DON’T KNOW, THEN YOU-GATS-KNOW) the name resonated with me sometime when I was writing a song the word popped up and I thought it was cool to be my stage name.

4. What do you feel are the key elements in your music that should resonate with listeners, and how would you personally describe your sound?

YUGATSNO: I channel my vibrant, energetic vocals to convey a rich tapestry of emotions, highlighting themes of love, perseverance, empowerment, self love & self-worth. I approach every obstacle as a chance for growth, using my music to share stories infused with passion and resilience. My signature sound blends elements of Afropop and Afrobeat, fused with street-pop influences, resonating with the struggles and triumphs that drive us forward with Key instruments like the piano, guitar, and drums serve as my musical companions in this journey of expression.

5. Creative work in a studio or home environment, or interaction with a live audience? Which of these two options excites you most, and why?

YUGATSNO: Creative work in a studio allows me to connect with the producer to have that synergy-like feel during the creative process. Interaction with a live audience allows me to express my music in real time and to connect with them on a deeper level. This excites me.

6. Do you think is it important for fans of your music to understand the real story and message driving each of your songs, or do you think everyone should be free to interpret your songs in their own personal way?

YUGATSNO: Yes, it is important for my fans to understand the real story driving each of my songs.

7. Do you feel that your music is giving you back just as much fulfillment as the amount of work you are putting into it or are you expecting something more, or different in the future?

YUGATSNO: I don’t think my music is giving me that much recognition yet or even means that much to people yet or getting paid . I know it’d do more when my music gets put in front of millions of potential fans.

8. Could you describe your creative processes? How do you usually start, and go about shaping ideas into a completed song? Do you usually start with a tune, a beat, or a narrative in your head? And do you collaborate with others in this process?

YUGATSNO: Music creation process for me is really dynamic. I don’t have a certain pattern. Sometimes I start with a tune and the next minute I’m writing. While most times I freestyle over an instrumental with a melody/tune. I collaborate with others too in this process.

9. What has been the most difficult thing you’ve had to endure in your life or music career so far?

YUGATSNO: Having to grow up apart from my father from a young age was a tough situation in my life. Healing father wounds has somehow shaped my singing skills and made me accountable.

One of the most difficult challenges I’ve faced in my music career so far has been dealing with self-doubt and insecurity. As an artist, there’s always this pressure to constantly produce something amazing and to measure up to certain standards. There have been times when I’ve questioned my abilities, wondered if I’m good enough, or felt overwhelmed by the competitiveness of the industry.

Overcoming these challenges involves being compassionate toward myself, concentrating on personal growth rather than comparisons, and seeking support from a positive community. Each obstacle conquered strengthens my resilience and fuels my artistic journey.

10. On the contrary, what would you consider a successful, proud or significant point in your life or music career so far?

YUGATSNO: My dreams reach far and wide. I envision selling out shows at Wembley and arenas across the globe, where I can connect with millions of fans through my music. Having to make my parents proud and to touch lives with my music. In a nutshell that’s success for me.

11. Creative work in a studio or home environment, or interaction with a live audience? Which of these two options excites you most, and why?

YUGATSNO: I’d say both options have their own unique appeal, but if I had to choose, I’d say interacting with a live audience excites me the most. There’s an electrifying energy that comes from performing in front of a live crowd that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. The immediate feedback, the connection with the audience, and the shared experience of music in real-time create an exhilarating atmosphere. Plus, seeing the impact your music has on people’s emotions and reactions is incredibly rewarding. It’s a reminder of the power of music to bring people together and evoke genuine emotions.