SPOTLIGHT: With 3 EPs released, Rhythim takes Afrobeats to the US

Songs by Rhythim are distinguished by their urban sound that exudes a singular, unmistakable character. With a fusion of smooth vocals and melodies and contemporary Afrobeat rhythms, he produces soulful and uplifting tracks that compel listeners to move their bodies and groove.

His sound is refreshingly conscious, as he infuses his lyrics with depth and meaning, making his music not only enjoyable but also thought-provoking.

His music influences include Fela Anikulapo Kuti, Tony Allen, Hugh Maseleka, Osita Osadebe; and following the lead of his trailblazers idols, the talented young singer would venture into the music industry at the age of 14.

During his formative years, Rhythim demonstrated a diverse range of skills and interests. Alongside creating music, he also devoted himself to other pursuits as a competitive taekwondo athlete, earning recognition and medals both at home and abroad through various competitions and performances. He is an All-African Games champion and has also captained Team Nigeria to the 2017 World Taekwondo Championship “Muju” in South Korea.

In 2018, Rhythim relocated to the United States and started pursuing his passion for music fully. Setting up a makeshift studio in his apartment, he began recording and producing music on a full-time basis, honing his craft and striving to make his mark in the industry.

He has been on all types of performance stages, thrilling audiences — both local and interstate — in the United States.

Following the success of his smash single ‘On Me’ featuring YQ, Rhythim released his highly anticipated extended play (EP) ‘Afrobeats And Jollof’ in 2022 which is on all streaming platforms.

In a chat with TheCable Lifestyle, Rhythim opens up about his journey so far in the music industry and his upcoming project.

TheCable Lifestyle: Who is Rhythim?

Rhythim: Samson Edwin better known as Rhythim is a Nigerian-born singer, songwriter, and record executive. I hail from Delta state, Nigeria, and was raised in Lagos.

TheCable Lifestyle: I recently listened to your two EPs. Can you talk about how you ventured into the music industry?

Rhythim: Appreciate it. I have been a huge music lover since when I got to understand my left from right. I could write and mime every single song I loved. Around that time I was part of the church kids group ‘Young Singers’. I was also a very shy kid but I couldn’t help myself when it had to do with music.

TheCable Lifestyle: Who were the musicians you grew up listening to?

Rhythim: I listened to a whole lot of versatile music but more of Fela, Sir Victor Uwaifo, and Osita Osadebe because my Dad always played these records.

TheCable Lifestyle: When did you relocate to America?

Rhythim: I relocated to America, in December 2018. I couldn’t forget that cold I encountered.

TheCable Lifestyle: Since you have been in the state, what are the differences you have observed between the American music industry and Nigeria?

Rhythim: Differences? I mean music is universal, to me, I just feel a difference in the systems supporting these industries. One has a supporting system and the other hasn’t if you know what I mean. Too many explanations herein we can’t finish this discussion.

TheCable Lifestyle: Your song, ‘On Me’ featuring YQ is doing pretty well, how was it like recording with YQ?

Rhythim: I went to the studio to record something else then ‘On Me’ happened as a freestyle. Funny story, I came out of the booth after a straight verse with the hook and I randomly told Major to jump on verse 2 for the rap version.

My Business Mentor thought YQ could make a good choice for the singer version and we made it happen.

TheCable Lifestyle: You have released three EPs in the last two years, should your fans be expecting any project soon?

Rhythim: Maybe EP or more singles.

TheCable Lifestyle: You haven’t performed in Nigeria in a while, would that be changing anytime soon?

Rhythim: Definitely, we will be having a tour in Nigeria real soon.