‘Church shaped my life’: Oxlade explains why he avoids smoking and hard drugs

Afrobeats singer Oxlade has opened up about his personal values, revealing that his church upbringing and musical roots in the choir are the reasons he avoids smoking and hard drugs.

The award-winning artiste, whose real name is Ikuforiji Olaitan, made the disclosure during a candid conversation with gospel singer Tim Godfrey, where he reflected on his background, faith and journey into music.

Oxlade said he was raised in a deeply Christian and music-oriented family, an environment he believes shaped both his lifestyle choices and artistic direction.

“I don’t smoke. I don’t take drugs,” the singer said, stressing that discipline and structure from the church played a key role in his upbringing.

From children’s church to Afrobeats stardom

The Ku Lo Sa hitmaker revealed that his music journey began in the church, where he rose through various choir units and took on leadership roles at a young age.

“I was a choir coordinator for every age group — children’s church, teen church, youth choir and the mass choir. All my life, I have been in the choir,” he said.

He added that musical talent runs deep in his family, describing a lineage rich in faith and creativity.

“My grandma is a deaconess and an amazing singer. My grandad was a multi-instrumentalist. My mum could dance and sing, and I also have a pastor in my family,” Oxlade explained.

According to the singer, these influences laid the foundation for his songwriting, particularly his connection to gospel music.

“My gospel music writing is actually the best. Gospel music is the best music,” he added.

‘God is behind my journey’

Oxlade also spoke about faith as a driving force behind his success, insisting that his achievements are a reflection of divine guidance rather than chance.

“Regardless of how I’m viewed, God is blessing me just as much as anyone else,” he said.

Pointing to his early career milestones, the singer added: “You can’t tour 40 cities with your debut album if God doesn’t want it to happen. As long as God is ordering my steps, there’s really nothing to worry about.”

Oxlade’s comments have resonated with fans, offering a rare glimpse into the values and convictions behind one of Afrobeats’ most distinctive voices.