Onwuzulike Ifenna Rex, known professionally as RicoRane, is a talented musician and songwriter whose passion for music has been a constant driving force throughout his life. With an unwavering love for sound and storytelling, he has continued to evolve as an artist, drawing inspiration from his personal experiences and cultural roots. As he prepares to showcase his work at Lagos Fringe, Onwuzulike speaks to us about his creative journey, the inspiration behind his upcoming EP ‘With Love From RicoRane’, and the importance of platforms like Lagos Fringe in shaping the future of Nigeria’s creative economy.
Q: Tell us a bit about your journey—how did you find your way into the world of theatre and what drives your art?
I have been in love with music since I was old enough to talk. Growing up, I had two older brothers who were into music, and they kind of passed the baton to me. I recorded my first song back in 2012 while I was still in secondary school, but it wasn’t until 2021 that I dropped my first EP, ‘Ranedrops’. Now, I am about to release my second EP titled ‘With Love From RicoRane’. Music has always been a part of me, and my journey is driven by a desire to share my experiences and emotions through sound—creating something that resonates with others.
Q: What inspired the piece you are showcasing at the Lagos Fringe? Is there a personal or cultural story behind it that you’d like to share with our audience?
It’s actually a blend of both—personal and cultural. As artists, we are deeply influenced by our culture, and in telling any story, whether through music, film, or any other medium, it’s important that the narrative aligns with the values, struggles, and triumphs of our society. We are a reflection of our culture, so every piece we create carries elements of who we are and where we come from. For me, that connection to culture is essential in shaping the stories I want to tell.
Q: How has the creative process been for this project? Were there any unique challenges or memorable moments you experienced while bringing it to life?
The creative process has definitely been a journey, with its fair share of challenges. Securing funding for projects—especially in the arts—can be tough in today’s society, and that’s no secret. But despite the financial hurdles, being able to push through all the obstacles and still create something meaningful and impactful is incredibly rewarding. The process has taught me resilience, and the moments of triumph, when everything falls into place, make it all worth it. Ultimately, the joy of bringing great art to life and sharing it with others is what keeps me going.
Q: In what ways do you feel festivals like the Lagos Fringe are essential for the creative economy and the arts scene in Nigeria?
Platforms like Lagos Fringe are extremely important for the creative economy in Nigeria. They provide an incredible experience for both the audience and the artists, fostering a dynamic space for creativity to thrive. Beyond the performances, festivals like Lagos Fringe allow exhibitors to gain greater visibility, expand their audience, and connect with other artists and industry professionals. It’s a vital space for showcasing talent, exchanging ideas, and building a stronger arts scene in Nigeria.
Q: What does it mean to you to present your work at Lagos Fringe, and what are you most excited for audiences to experience?
Presenting my work at Lagos Fringe means a lot to me. I had the opportunity to attend last year, and I was truly impressed by how well-organized and professionally executed the entire event was. It was inspiring and served as a huge encouragement for me to continue striving for excellence in my own work. This year, I’m excited for the audience to experience the creativity and passion we’ve poured into the project. It’s a chance for them to connect with the work, enjoy the storytelling, and hopefully leave with something that resonates with them. I want fun, catchy, and engaging soundbites from this.
. . .
Onwuzulike Ifenna Rex, aka RicoRane, is a musician who combines passion with perseverance, navigating the complexities of the creative industry to bring his art to life. With his upcoming EP, With Love From RicoRane, and his participation at Lagos Fringe, RicoRane is setting the stage for a future filled with growth and impact. His dedication to blending personal and cultural storytelling is a hallmark of his artistry, and he continues to inspire others to push boundaries and create from the
heart. As he takes the stage at Lagos Fringe, audiences can expect an experience that’s as much about connection as it is about creativity. RicoRane’s journey is one of resilience, and his work promises to leave an indelible mark on the Nigerian music scene.