Nigerian Artist, Tommzy Eyes Global Music Breakthrough

A fast-rising Nigerian music producer and artist, Daniel Adesanya, says the “pure joy” of creating music from scratch remains his biggest motivation, even as he navigates the challenges of building a career in the United Kingdom. Speaking in an interview, the 25-year-old artist, who goes with the stage name Tommzy, described the creative process as […]

A fast-rising Nigerian music producer and artist, Daniel Adesanya, says the “pure joy” of creating music from scratch remains his biggest motivation, even as he navigates the challenges of building a career in the United Kingdom.

Speaking in an interview, the 25-year-old artist, who goes with the stage name Tommzy, described the creative process as deeply fulfilling, noting that his passion lies in storytelling through sound.

“There is a specific kind of high you get when you’re sitting in front of FL Studio, starting with absolutely nothing, and then layer by layer, you build a world,” he said. “Even before the lyrics come in, I want the music itself to tell you a story and make you feel something deep in your soul.”

The 2022 graduate of Computer Engineering expressed confidence in his career choice, saying he has no regrets despite the slow pace of growth at times.

“I can say with 100 percent certainty that I made the right choice. It hasn’t been an overnight success, and there are days that test your patience, but I’ve enjoyed every bit of the process,” he added.

Since relocating to the UK in 2024, the artist admitted that building a loyal audience in a new environment has been one of his biggest hurdles, alongside balancing his music career with a day job.

“Managing time between working to survive and working to create is a constant battle,” says the 2022 graduate of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, Nigeria.

To overcome these challenges, he has leaned heavily on digital platforms, using social media and curated playlists to connect with audiences across borders.

“I’ve been intentional about my digital presence, building a bridge between my fans back in Nigeria and new listeners in the UK and beyond,” he explained. “The response has been great so far.”

Daniel also highlighted the need to evolve both technically and artistically, revealing plans to upgrade his music equipment and refine his stagecraft.

“It’s one thing to be a producer in a room; it’s another to be an artist who can command a stage,” he said. “I want people to not only hear my sound but recognise my vibe instantly.”

Describing the UK music scene as “tough and highly competitive,” he noted that the exposure has significantly reshaped his outlook and accelerated his growth.

“I’ve met people who have challenged how I view the business, and I’m definitely seeing real progress,” he said.
Among his early milestones are a collaboration with Denizen Records and recognition from the BBC, achievements he described as validation of his direction.

“Getting BBC recognition and an interview were huge milestones. It’s a clear sign I’m moving in the right direction,” he said.

While working towards making music a full-time career, Daniel currently supports himself with a job and also works as a music curator, a role he says sharpens his creative instincts.

Reflecting on his relocation to the UK, the Ogere Remo, Ogun State indigene, said the decision was driven by a desire for growth and global impact.

“The UK offers a gateway to the global stage, and I felt my sound would resonate here, especially with the appreciation for genre blending and storytelling,” he said.

Despite his international ambitions, the artist maintains a strong connection to his roots.
“My roots are firmly planted in Nigeria—that’s where my rhythm comes from. But I see myself operating in both spaces,” he said.

Looking ahead, Dan aims to build a borderless fan base and break into markets beyond Africa.

“I’m not just looking to be a local artist. I want my music to be at home in a club in New York or London and on the radio in Lagos,” he said.

He added that his growth strategy remains deliberate and data-driven, with a focus on digital marketing, collaborations, and brand development.

“I don’t believe in just dropping music and hoping for the best. I use data to find my audience and speak directly to them,” he said.

Despite resource constraints and the competitive nature of the industry, Dan, who has completed a Master’s Degree programme in Music Production
at the Nottingham Trent University School of Art, says he remains undeterred.

“There’s a lot of noise in the industry, but these challenges don’t stop me—they just make me more creative,” he added.