Nigerian singer Ikuforiji Olaitan, popularly known as Oxlade, has opened up about a painful experience of racial abuse he faced in France, which inspired the title of his debut album, Oxlade From Africa. The singer shared this revelation during a recent appearance on The Datebizz podcast.
Oxlade recounted that the incident occurred in Monaco and served as a harsh reminder of his African identity and the prejudice that exists beyond the continent.
"I decided to name my album Oxlade From Africa because I was racially abused in France, specifically in Monaco," he shared. "That was the moment that woke me up to the reality of being African. It made me realize the African stigma is real. In Africa, we see ourselves as just normal human beings, but outside, we’re often viewed as something else—like monkeys or strange beings."
The artist, who holds a degree in History and International Relations, also touched on the broader context of African identity, expressing his belief that both the names "Africa" and "Nigeria" carry derogatory connotations. This powerful personal experience has clearly shaped Oxlade's perspective and influenced his music, with the album title serving as a statement of pride and resilience.
Oxlade's Oxlade From Africa aims to reflect his journey and identity as an African in a world where racial prejudice remains a harsh reality for many.
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