The Pan African music scene is an intriguing scene, where raw talent thrives amidst everyday struggles. Grassroots artists often battle to claim their share of the limelight and it is precisely for these artists that 69 Agency exists—championing voices that might otherwise go unheard. One such rising star is Lagos-based Shotayo Tolulope Winner, popularly known as Dreemz, whose journey is as inspiring as it is authentic.
Dreemz’s story begins in a home where music was more than just background noise—it was the language of life. Growing up in Lagos State, he was immersed in a world of sound, thanks to his father’s aspirations as a Fuji musician and his older brother’s deep passion for playing instruments. “I’ve always felt a natural connection to music; it’s just in my blood,” he explains. This familial love for music laid the foundation for his journey, fueling his desire to transform everyday Naija struggles into art that resonates.
Choosing his stage name was an act of reclaiming that childhood wonder. “I was just a random kid with a passion for this music thing, and I needed to give that feeling a name,” Tolulope reflects. “Dreemz”—a playful twist on the word “dreams”—captures the essence of his ambition and the relentless drive to pursue his passion. His philosophy is simple yet powerful: be aggressively consistent and never doubt any step you take.
Drawing inspiration from musical legends, Dreemz credits icons like 2baba, Sound Sultan, Chronixx, and Lagbaja for shaping his sound and song-writing style. “Big shout out to 2baba,” he says, acknowledging the profound impact these artists have had on his creative journey. Their influence is evident in his music—a unique blend that transcends the typical Afrobeat/Afrobeats sound, aiming instead to create timeless tracks that captivate listeners one song at a time.
Dreemz’s career has already seen notable milestones. One of his standout moments was opening for Young John at his homecoming concert in 2020—a performance he remembers as a turning point. In addition to live shows, he’s also penned songs for other artists, though he prefers to keep those collaborations under wraps for now. Despite having a couple of unreleased tracks that are “begging to be out there,” he remains focused on honing his craft and sharing his story through music.
A recent collaboration with 69 Agency has begun to pay dividends. A track featuring Dreemz titled “December” by HDT amassed 10,000 streams on Audiomack—a first for the emerging artist. This achievement not only marks a milestone in his burgeoning career but also underscores the vital role that 69 Agency plays in bringing underground talent to the forefront.
For Dreemz, the mission is clear: to create music that is not only heard but deeply felt. “I want people to experience my sound as a unique journey, not just another song on the radio,” he asserts. His dedication to making valuable and timeless music is a testament to the countless hours spent perfecting his craft and the resilience that defines his path.
As Dreemz navigates the competitive world of music, his story serves as a beacon of hope for grassroots artists across Africa. With unwavering determination, he is poised to leave an indelible mark on the industry—one song at a time.
Check out more details on Dreemz HERE
Posted by Abdulazeez A Shomade | Published on 2025-02-10 00:41:16