The pan African music scene is chock-full of talents who have unique perspectives to offer but are either often overlooked or crippled by lack of resources. Victor Awe, better known as KiD Jet, is one of those emerging innovative music talents. Born and raised in Nigeria, his journey into music began as a personal outlet—an emotional expression that soon evolved into a professional passion. Drawing inspiration from global icons like XXXTentacion and Nasty C, KiD Jet has crafted a sound that blends the raw emotionality of emo-rap with the vibrant rhythms of Afropop and the futuristic vibe of cloud rap.
His unique approach not only bridges the gap between Nigerian cultural roots and international influences but also challenges industry norms by daring to express his truth. In this candid interview, KiD Jet shares the story behind his musical journey—from his first serious foray into songwriting at 18, to struggling with industry gatekeeping, and embracing his distinctive sound that’s reshaping the African music scene. Let’s dive into the conversation and explore the remarkable evolution of Victor Awe pka KiD Jet.
1. What inspired your musical journey and at what age did you start?
Only started taking songwriting seriously because it became a way to express emotions I couldn’t put into words otherwise. I also realized that articulating my emotions well could help people in many ways. However, it wasn’t until 2020, when I was 18 years old, that I officially released my first song and began my professional journey.
2. Which artists or genres shaped your sound?
I was heavily invested in XXXTentacion and Nasty C at the time. X showed me that music was deeper than I had imagined—it was a way to express emotions that could help people simply because they could relate to it. Nasty C, on the other hand, proved that there are no limits to ambition, even as an African artist. He blew up at a young age by doing what he loved most.
These two gave my inspiration confidence. I was deeply into emo-rap, which I believe influenced my tendency toward emotional lyricism and production.
3. How has your upbringing or cultural background influenced your music?
In Nigeria, party songs and rowdy areas are common, but my situation was different. I’ve always found myself in environments where those things weren’t as accepted. You could say I’m more of an introvert and homebody. My secondary education was in a Catholic school, which isolated us from the outside world, so I naturally gravitated toward a laid-back lifestyle.
I’ve lived my entire life in Nigeria, and I love it here, but strangely enough, foreign music became the majority of what I listened to and was influenced by as I was growing up. Now, I see this as an advantage because it helped me find a balance between staying true to my Nigerian roots while embracing global influences.
My music reflects both my Nigerian culture and personal journey. I write emotional lyrics in a way that resonates with people from my environment, staying original and authentic to who I am. It’s important to me that people understand my story and where I’m coming from.
4. How did you come up with your stage name? I'd initially thought it was from Avatar: The last Airbender since you referenced Azula in your new single Maria.
“Jet” represents movement at great speed—it’s about soaring to new heights, staying in motion, and not letting anything hold me back. I chose “Jet” because I actually wanted to be a pilot, but when I decided music was my true calling, I used it as a way to pay homage to giving up on that dream.
To make it cooler, I added “Kid.” I noticed a lot of rapper names start with “Lil,” but I wanted to be different, so I went with “Kid” instead
5. What would it be if you could go back in time and give your younger self one piece of advice?
The advice I’d give my younger self is to go all in. In Nigeria, sometimes our loved ones and friends look down on creatives because they’re scared it won’t work out. But I believe creatives should be more afraid of giving up on what they love to forcefully do something they don’t want to. In the end, they won’t find true happiness that way. I was a victim of this. So, the one piece of advice I’d give my younger self is to go all in and trust his gut.
6. Any notable performances, collaborations, or achievements?
So far my journey has been more focused on creating and building my brand. A noteworthy collaboration is “Ayra and Tems” with Zilla oaks in 2024. Zilla oaks is a very important artiste in the Abuja rap scene and also bagged some Spotify editorials in 2024 too.
7. That's profound. What’s your mission as an artist? How do you want to impact your audience?
My mission as an artist is to create music that’s real and resonates with people, no matter where they are in life. I want my music to be a reflection of who I am—authentic, versatile, and free to explore different emotions and experiences. Through my music, I hope to inspire people to embrace their uniqueness and stay true to themselves, while also finding moments of joy, peace, and connection
8. What's your biggest challenge in the industry so far.
My biggest challenge is probably this gate keeping mindset industry makers have. Make it look like not every creative person is privileged to even dream. Also how people don’t appreciate emotional music enough
9- Any new or upcoming project you want to mention?
There’s this song that really defines like a new sound for me and this world entirely and I’m so excited to get it out. It sort of merges emo rap, afropop and cloud rap elements. Afropop with a sub genre of cloud rap has never been heard of.
KiD Jet’s journey is a testament to the power of authenticity and determination in an industry often mired in gatekeeping. His ability to blend the raw emotionality of emo-rap with the vibrant energy of Afropop and cloud rap not only breaks barriers but also redefines what it means to be an African artist today. As KiD Jet continues to push creative boundaries and remain true to his roots, his story reminds us that passion and persistence can truly transform the musical landscape.
Don’t miss out on his latest single, Maria, available now on all streaming platforms.
Instagram: @Kidjetbaby
Posted by Abdulazeez A Shomade | Published on 2025-02-24 02:32:39