SARZ

Early Life and Musical Awakening

Sarz was born on March 17, 1989, in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. From an early age, he was immersed in a rich soundscape of pop, soul, and traditional Nigerian music, developing an uncanny ability to deconstruct and memorize the instrumental arrangements of songs.

His passion for music production was not a formal pursuit but a natural calling. Recognizing that his future lay in music, he relocated to Lagos to immerse himself in the nation's competitive music industry. Unlike many of his peers, Sarz's education was the hands-on experience of the studio, where he honed his craft and developed his unique sonic identity.

Music Career

Sarz’s career began in 2007 with his first production credit on the song "See Drama" by Lord of Ajasa. While this marked his entry, it was his 2010 production of Jahbless's star-studded hit, "Jor Oh," that became his "Dami Duro" moment, catapulting him into the industry's elite. The track won "Best Street Hop" at The Headies in 2011.

Following this breakthrough, Sarz became the go-to producer for groundbreaking hits. He was the creative force behind Reminisce's "Kako Bi Chicken," Skales' "Mukulu," and the majority of eLDee’s 2012 album Undeniable. His dominance was solidified in 2012 when he was named "Producer of the Year" at the Dynamix Awards. In a now-legendary moment at the 2012 Nigeria Entertainment Awards, fellow nominee Don Jazzy, upon winning "Producer of the Year," called Sarz to the stage and handed him the award in a powerful gesture of respect.

Over the years, Sarz has curated an iconic catalog of hits, including "Beat of Life (Samba)" and "Jaiye Jaiye" for Wizkid, "Come Closer" for Wizkid ft. Drake, and "Monalisa" for Lojay, which became a global phenomenon.

International Success and Creative Partnerships

Sarz's innovative sound, blending Afrobeats with electronic, house, and hip-hop elements, naturally paved the way for international recognition. He has contributed to projects and produced for global superstars, including Drake, Beyoncé, Chris Brown, Skepta, and Gunna.

Instead of signing to a major label, Sarz has prioritized independence and creative control, choosing to forge powerful partnerships. He is known for creating full-length collaborative projects that push artistic boundaries and has founded his own creative imprint to release his work.

Discography

Sarz has distinguished himself by releasing critically and commercially successful EPs and collaborative albums, including:

• SINYM (Sarz Is Not Your Mate) (EP, 2019)

• I Love Girls With Trobul (with WurlD, 2019)

• LV N ATTN (with Lojay, 2021)

• Sweetness (with Obongjayar, 2021)

These projects have garnered millions of streams and have been celebrated for their artistic depth and cohesive soundscapes.

Awards and Recognition

Sarz is one of Africa’s most decorated producers. His awards include:

• Multiple wins and nominations at The Headies, including "Producer of the Year."

• "Producer of the Year" at the Dynamix Awards (2012).

• Numerous nominations at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards.

• His productions have directly led to international certifications, such as a Silver certification in the UK for "Monalisa."

The Sarz Academy

In 2015, Sarz founded The Sarz Academy, a non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing the next generation of African music producers and creatives. Functioning as his equivalent to a record label, the academy provides aspiring talents with technical training, business education, and mentorship opportunities. It has successfully launched the careers of notable producers like Kel-P and has released compilation albums showcasing its graduates, solidifying Sarz’s legacy as a pillar of the industry.

Legacy and Impact

Sarz is more than a producer; he is a visionary who has consistently pushed the boundaries of African music. His philanthropic focus is on building human capital, investing his time and resources into mentoring young creatives through his academy. He has transformed the role of the producer from a background figure to a celebrated artist and brand in his own right, leaving an indelible mark on the sound of a generation.