Born Otiono Miracle Ogechi, OG Sterling is a talented music producer, engineer, and songwriter from Delta State, Nigeria. Asides having a buzzing single titled Muzz alongside Savage, Erriga, Attifayo & Morrelo, the burgeoning producer has worked on incredible projects such as Homeless by Llona with production credits on songs for Magixx, Dj Neptune, Zlatan Ibile, and more.
For OG Sterling, music is a profound connection to his heritage and a means of storytelling, emotional expression, and making a lasting impact. He shares his true self with the world through his craft, creating a harmonious blend of traditional and modern sounds that transcend borders and cultures. We had a quick chat with him about his career tragectory and plans for the nearest future.
Can you tell us a bit about your journey into music production? What sparked your interest in creating music?
So basically I grew up with music around me. At the age of 7, I was drumming in church, 10-11 I was playing the keyboard before 16 I learned to play the bass guitar. All those years I was just playing all the instruments I could get my hands on. Later on, I started making beats on my PSR-S670 Keyboard until I got my hands on a laptop, it was my mom’s laptop then, I installed FL Studio and started exploring the software. I would even chop up the beats I made on the keyboard and use them as loops on FL. Then in 2019, that’s when everything really started. I linked up with a friend of mine from school. He was an artist, producer, and mixing engineer at the time. I was always in his studio with my PSR-S670 Keyboard.
For you, Does being a producer make being an artist less tasking or difficult? What are the sweet spots and common difficulties you face in both areas?
Being a producer helps in the songwriting process. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges because sometimes you overthink the melodies, the rhythm to choose when writing.
What’s your favorite piece of equipment or software that you can’t live without in the studio?
Almost everything lol.
How do you approach the creative process when writing songs or producing songs? Do you feel like your jobs tend to flow into each other sometimes? And how has that helped you?
When it comes to writing and producing songs, I usually feed off of the artist I’m working with at the time so there has to be some sort of bonding prior to the session. Sometimes though it could be a melody, a lyric, or a particular sound.
Thinking from a songwriter’s POV has definitely helped me sharpen my production skills, because back then I worked with an artist who told me my beats sounded like a whole song, like it didn’t need an artist on it, but with the skill of a songwriter I learned how to create that space for the artist.
Can you share a memorable moment in your career so far that affirmed your path in music production?
That would be the first time I sold a beat ever, it was one of the beats I made on my keyboard.
If you could produce a soundtrack for a movie or show, which would it be and why?
I don’t really watch movies but I’d say Avatar the movie lol, cos I really enjoyed the cartoon.
What are some goals you’ve set for yourself as you continue to grow in your career? Are there any dream projects or artists you’d love to work with?
One of my many goals is to keep evolving as a Producer and Songwriter, constantly pushing my creative boundaries.I aim to collaborate with more artists, explore different genres, and ultimately create timeless music that resonates with people on a deeper level. It’s all about growth, creativity, and making meaningful connections through music! I’d love to work with artists from different countries and cultures. I’d love to work with Kabza De Small, Zee Nxumalo, our very own Burna, Fireboy, Juls. The list is long but yeah.
How do you see the Nigerian music scene evolving in the next few years, and what role do you want to play in that evolution?
I see the Nigerian music scene continuing to thrive and evolve in the next few years, with different talents emerging and making their mark on the global stage. My goal as a creative is to be a part of this exciting journey, adding my sound to the vibrant tapestry of Nigerian music and helping to shape its bright future.
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