Nigerian Crooner Kotrell On New Music, Kenyan Collaborators and Future Endeavors

Hailing from Rivers State, Kotrell’s sound is a sophisticated blend of traditional African soul and Western pop, resulting in a discography that feels both contemporary and timeless. From his roots in gospel rap to graduating with First Class honors in Economics at Bowen University (where he sold out his first solo concert in 2018), Kotrell’s journey is defined by a rare combination of academic discipline and emotional intelligence.

His immersive live shows—The Kotyard Lagos (2023 & 2024), The Kotyard Abuja (2024), and Kotrell Unplugged (2025)—all sold out, establishing him as not just a studio talent but a captivating live performer. With a growing catalog and unforgettable stage presence, Kotrell stands at the forefront of a new wave of emotionally rich African pop-soul.

The singer who dabbles in the R&B, Afro-Pop and Pop genres recently visited Nairobi and opens up to Capital Lifestyle on his current goings-on, music and future plans.

Capital Lifestyle: How has your Kenyan experience been so far?

Kotrell: It’s been really beautiful. I love the weather, and the people. It’s been a lovely experience so far.

How do you strike a balance between creating music that is both sophisticated and traditional?

To be honest, I don’t overthink it. I’m just intentional about putting both my culture, as an African, and excellence on display with my art.

As an Economics degree holder, how has your education impacted your approach to music?

It has influenced my approach to the business aspect of my work in the music industry.

You have released at least bodies of work. How does each of the projects differ from the other?

I’ve released 3 bodies of work, and each shows one is a part of a story I started in 2023 from the first one. Each project sheds light on a unique perspective or phase of love, but all projects are connected. When you line up the project titles of these projects, they make up a complete statement – “Love is…forever, and everything in between”.

How’s your regular creative process?

It varies and I never try to restrict the creative process through which my music is made. Sometimes it starts from a beat, sometimes it’s a melody stuck in my head, and sometimes the lyrics come first.

What do you enjoy more, between creating music and performing?

I enjoy both equally.

Where do you draw creative inspiration from?

I draw inspiration from love; around me, within me, and God. I don’t think too much about setting myself apart. I’ve simply just given myself the freedom to remain the unique individual God made. I don’t pressure myself to be or move like anyone else.

You have collaborated with our very own Bridgit Blue. How did that come about?

It was beautiful. I wanted to make a remix for my song ‘Now and Always’ and around that time a friend shared her music with me, and I fell in love with it right away. My team reached out to her and our song together came to be. She’s amazing.

Which artists are you currently listening to?

Limoblaze, DOTTi The Deity, Wizard Chan, Bridget Blue.

Which other Kenyans are you looking to collaborate with?

Watendawili, Nikita Kering’, and Vijana BaruBaru.

What next for Kotrell?

More music, and more live shows. Hopefully I get to host a concert in Kenya this year.

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