Afrobeats singer Ikuforiji Olaitan, popularly known as Oxlade, has revealed that he does not smoke or take hard drugs, saying his upbringing and strong Christian background shaped his lifestyle and values.
Speaking during an interview with gospel singer Tim Godfrey, Oxlade explained that he grew up in a deeply religious and musically gifted family, which influenced both his character and music journey.
The *Ku Lo Sa* hitmaker said he began his music career in the church, where he served in the choir for many years. According to him, his long involvement in church music played a major role in shaping his discipline and approach to life.
“I don’t smoke. I don’t take drugs. I was a choir coordinator for every age group — children’s church, teen church, youth choir, and the mass choir,” he said.
Oxlade added that music runs strongly in his family. He revealed that his grandmother is a deaconess and a talented singer, while his grandfather was a multi-instrumentalist. He also noted that his mother could sing and dance, and that there is a pastor in his family.
“All my life I have been in the choir. I was raised in a musically inclined family,” he said. “My gospel music writing is actually the best. Gospel music is the best music.”
The singer further stated that his success is rooted in divine guidance, stressing that his career growth is not by chance. He pointed out that touring over 40 cities with his debut album is proof of God’s hand in his journey.
“Regardless of how people see me, God is blessing me just as much as He is blessing anyone else,” Oxlade said. “You can’t tour 40 cities with your debut album if God doesn’t want it to happen. As long as God is directing my steps, I have nothing to worry about.”
