Mr. FoW, the Nigerian-Americana artist carving a unique path in the music industry, has dropped his latest LP, Soul Boi III. This album is set to be a sonic exploration, a raw and honest peek into the artist’s soul.
First, let’s get to know Mr. FoW. Mr. FoW, aka, Mr. Future Of Work, didn’t exactly follow the usual artist blueprint. Growing up with Nigerian-American parents, music was always in his world. Like, he remembers belting out “Ebony and Ivory” with his crew at Betty Best Elementary. That’s when the music bug really bit him.
But it wasn’t until a total game-changer of a trip back to Nigeria in 2021 that he decided to make music his full-time gig. “That trip, man, it was a total eye-opener,” he says. “Music wasn’t just a hobby anymore; it was my calling.” Church choirs and elementary school performances were his first stages, but it was the lure of the mind—psychology, human behavior, and the magic of machines—that pulled him away from the spotlight for a while.
But the music was always there, simmering beneath the surface. And when it finally erupted, it wasn’t your average hip-hop or R&B. Mr. FoW crafted a sound he calls “Alt-X,” a fusion of hip-hop and soul with a dash of experimental flair. His music isn’t about chasing trends; it’s about connecting with listeners on a deeper level. It’s about sharing stories, experiences, and emotions that resonate.
Soul Boi III is a testament to this approach. Recorded in the heart of Houston, Texas, at the legendary Mission Control Studios, this project is a full-on experience. With the masterful touch of fellow Houstonian and producer Chief Aleel, the album comes alive with rich soundscapes and infectious rhythms.
One of the standout tracks, “mDNA,” features the soulful vocals of Duchess, a rising star who Mr. FoW considers a close friend. This collaboration is a highlight, showcasing the chemistry between the two artists. And let’s not forget about “BushioHOVa” and “PrecIOUs,” two tracks that have been patiently waiting for their moment to shine.
It hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows, though. Mr. FoW’s faced his share of struggles, just like any other artist trying to make it. “I’ve played shows where it felt like I was talking to empty chairs,” he confesses. “And even now, it’s tough figuring out if real people are actually digging my music. With all these bots and the way streaming works, it’s like trying to find a needle in a haystack.”
So, what keeps him going? It’s that never-give-up attitude. He’s got big plans. “In five years, I see myself teaming up with a bunch of creative minds—producers, designers, storytellers—to make something truly special,” he shares. “Art can change the world, and I wanna be part of that change.”
When asked about his secret sauce he replied, “Hard work and patience are key,” he says straight up. “I’m not afraid to ask for help, and I believe in letting people do their thing. Plus, kindness is a superpower, let me tell you. Nice guys don’t finish last—they win in the long run.”
For Mr. FoW, success isn’t about flashing the cash. It’s about knowing where you’re headed and having the guts to get there. It’s about becoming someone people respect, both as an artist and as a person. “Success doesn’t just fall from the sky,” he explains. “You gotta earn it. And that means not resting on your laurels. Sometimes, you gotta reinvent yourself to stay on top.”
Lastly, with Soul Boi III, he’s setting the stage for what’s next. And if this album is any clue, the future is looking super dope. “This is just the start,” he teases. “Wait ’til you hear what’s coming in 2024!”
If you haven’t already, give Soul Boi III a spin, go ahead and check it out on Spotify, Tidal, and Apple Music.
