In a world where social media continues to blur the boundaries of cultural and geographical divides, stories of unexpected fame and crossover success have become increasingly common. One such tale is that of Louis Anthony, more commonly known as Oli Boy among his fans. Originally hailing from Nigeria, Oli Boy has become a rising star in the Bengali music industry, all thanks to a spontaneous TikTok video that went viral. Oli Boy’s journey to fame is a testament to the power of the internet and the unique cultural exchanges it facilitates. While Nigeria and Bangladesh are worlds apart geographically and culturally, Oli Boy’s affinity for Bengali music has finally found a place of its own. During an exclusive interview with TINDS, Oli shared his amazing story of coming this far and becoming the sensation that he is today.
TINDS: Tell us a little about your childhood. Where were you born and where did you grow up?
Oli Boy: I was born in Kaduna, Nigeria and I grew up in Niger state. It wasn’t until later when I moved to Bangladesh.
TINDS: When and why did you move to Bangladesh?
Oli Boy: I visited Bangladesh first back in 2019 towards the end of the year for my garments business. My primary profession is business and I do exports. It was later during the lockdown that year, when I found music.
TINDS: What word would you choose to describe yourself?
Oli Boy: I am like a mirror. I reciprocate the energy I receive entirely.
TINDS: You speak and understand Bengali language. Was it hard learning the language?
Oli Boy: To be honest, I was never aware that I am gradually learning Bangla. I started meeting people months before the lockdown. Upon first meeting me, people would always tend to speak in English and eventually speak in Bengali among themselves. I have always been curious and kept on asking what words meant. I have learned a great deal from my friends, the people I have around, rickshaw pullers and almost everybody I interact with. It’s a God’s gift.
TINDS: How did you get involved into music? Tell us a little about the start.
Oli Boy: I have been involved and interested in music from a very young age. I believe the interest has always resided within me.I started singing in the church choir and then moved to the band. When I came to Bangladesh, I did not do music for a very long time because initially the language did not come as easy to me as it does now. I never thought I’d pursue music professionally, especially in Bangladesh. Me going viral over TikTok, was just because of my friend uploading a video of mine. I wasn’t even aware of what was happening for at least two to three days followed by that. The video I think has a whopping 16.7 million views now and that’s where I was inspired from and where my Bengali music career started I believe.
TINDS: You have now worked with several artists and songs already. How would you describe the entire experience of working in the industry?
Oli Boy: I started with cover songs and the reaction of the audience was phenomenal. Most of the covers went viral over social media and working with all the artists that I have been able to work with till date, I genuinely feel blessed. They say, when a man forgets his roots and where he came from, that’s when he starts making mistakes. I wanted to create something different for the audience. I figured if a song like ‘Baby calm down’ from Nigeria has so much popularity here in Bangladesh, there is definitely an afro crowd here. Not every listener understands every song that they listen to, you just have to connect to the music. I give glory to God that He helped me be at the right place at the right time.
TINDS: What have you had to struggle with coming this far?
Oli Boy: Meeting somebody who I can align with. I met Fuad bhai for the first time and he is absolute magic. A music producer who can give me what I want.
TINDS: What would your advice be to young musicians?
Oli Boy: I would not put myself in a place where I can advise other people. But I would definitely mention that people should explore other genres of music and not just stay limited to the ones that they already know of. There is music happening in other countries that the whole world is vibing to. So, always be open to exploring. You can find the inspiration that you need. I find inspiration in from folk music to afro songs. Also, you need to be consistent in what you do.
| Find Him
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oliboy01/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olilouis_oliboy/ |
