(A private talk with the Afro-RnB singer)
Tony Bernard AKA Teeben is making a name for himself in the ever-changing world of Nigerian music by mixing RnB, soul, and Afrobeat. We recently sat down with the multi-talented artist, whose real name carries the weight of family legacy, to talk about his musical journey, the viral success that changed everything, and his latest single “Jeje”, which is a heartfelt tribute to love and longing.
Finding His Voice
Teeben didn’t just choose music, it was a calling that he felt since he was a child. “I feel like music chose me,” he says.
“I’ve been doing music all my life, from nursery school to boarding school, without any instruments.” But it wasn’t until 2022 that he decided to really go after his passion.
He got his formal training at the now-closed Otomart Music Academy in Port Harcourt. Tony is still philosophical about his journey, though. “You know, God has been helpful. There are times when I try to remember where I’ve been and I’m very thankful.
Tony has put a lot of time and money into his education outside of music. He has degrees in Foreign Language and Literature from the University of Port Harcourt, finished his studies at a university in the Benin Republic, and got both an MBA and a Master of Science.
He worked with producers Beatpraized, a student of Masterkraft, in 2016 and Femisounds in 2018. He says these relationships “go a long way”
A Sound That Is Unique
Teeben doesn’t limit himself to one type of music when people ask him to describe his style. He says, “My music is a mix of RnB, soul and Afrobeats. His wide range of influences, which include global superstar Justin Bieber and Nigerian sensation Omah Lay, are reflected in this mix. He says of Omah Lay, “I know him well and sometimes remember him.” Omah Lay’s melodic style of Afrobeat seems to fit with Tony’s own artistic tastes.
His Process to Creating a Song
Teeben’s creative process is very personal and excitingly random. “I just like being alone, immediately I get inspiration”. he says.
“I’m also a fast writer.” He really is that fast; two years ago, he wrote a song in just one hour that became a hit. “When I write songs, I write them as if I’m connecting them to myself, without the influence of other people,” he says. This self-reflective style lets him tap into real feelings, which makes his music resonate because it comes from a real place.
His philosophy on inspiration is just as simple: “I can vibe to every song I listen to… and sing about love and life activities in general”.
“Jeje”: A Story of Love
Teeben’s new single “Jeje” is a sad love song about someone he calls Aminah (though that’s not her real name). It’s a story that many people will find painfully relatable. He says openly, “We’re not together anymore.”
The song came together by chance. “My producer had a beat online, and I was really thinking about the person. After that, I recorded it and sent it to my producer. He told me he had sold it, and I was like, “Oh no, you have to unsell.”
Tony stayed true to his DIY style by recording “Jeje” in his room and then sending it to his producer to mix and master. He learned how to do cinematography from his friend Adetola, which is another skill set he used for the visual part. “I worked on cinematography with my friend Adetola. He says, “I learned from him,” showing how many different ways he approaches his art.
What’s Next? Teeben has a busy and bright future ahead of him. He teases, “A lot of things are coming up… lots of collabs,” but he won’t say much more about them right now. When asked about future projects, he confirms that there is more to come, but he keeps it a secret.
Life Lessons
The most interesting thing we talked about with Teeben wasn’t music at all; it was the way he’s experienced so much. When asked what the most important thing he’s learned is, he gives an answer that shows he’s grown up, which is rare for a young artist.
“Don’t let people know you’re too happy”, don’t blow it up for people,” he says. “Be thankful and learn to keep it to yourself.”
In an industry where jealousy and competition can be fierce, the best thing to do is to stay humble, be thankful, and keep your wins to yourself.
The Way Forward
One thing is clear about Teeben: he won’t be rushed or influenced by outside forces as he builds his catalog and expands his reach. He makes things when he wants, where he wants, and how he wants.
Tony’s journey is a testament to hard work, talent, and the courage to trust his own voice.
“Jeje” is available on all streaming platforms, and fans can expect more music from Tony Brenard in the coming months.
For news about new releases and upcoming collaborations, stay in touch with Tony Brenard.
