Odeal

Odeal is a German-born British-Nigerian singer and songwriter, born in 1999 and associated with Germany and the United Kingdom. His music combines Afrobeats, R&B, U.K. dance music and rap, shaped by a cross-cultural upbringing and a life marked by movement between countries.

Early development

He begins writing and producing music while at a Nigerian boarding school. During that period, he encounters the work of Fela Kuti, Burna Boy and Wizkid, who help shape his musical outlook.

Style and scene

After returning to the U.K. in 2017, he becomes known as a leading figure in the U.K. side of the alté scene. His work links him with Nigerian artists such as Odunsi (The Engine) and British artist Gabzy.

Themes

His music is also explicitly political, drawing on the global Black Lives movement and pan-African political traditions.