Born Samuel Imo Onwubiko, Limoblaze has carved out a unique space in the music industry, not only for his dynamic sound but for his unwavering dedication to his mission—spreading the gospel through his art.

His latest album, Young & Chosen, is a testament to his growth both as an artist and a person of faith. Describing the creative process, Limoblaze admits that the journey wasn’t always smooth, but the challenges ultimately led to growth. The album features a variety of sounds, all curated to convey the central message of his music: the gospel. It's also the first album he’s released since signing with Reach Records, a move that has influenced his sound and style.

When it comes to picking a favorite track, Limoblaze finds it difficult, but singles out "Rest" as a song that resonates with him the most at the moment. "In the process of making the album, I began to understand the concept of resting in God even more," he shares. However, he’s quick to add that every song holds a special place for him, reflecting different facets of his journey.

In his interview with TurnTable, Limoblaze delves into various aspects of his career, offering a detailed look at his journey, achievements, latest album, collaborations, and future in music. He reflects on how his music journey began, the milestones that stand out for him, and the testimonies from fans that have shaped his experience. Limoblaze also provides insights into the creative process behind his latest album, Young & Chosen, while highlighting key collaborations and sharing his vision for evolving his sound. Throughout the conversation, his focus on faith and purpose remains central to his artistic mission.

Can you tell us about yourself and what it means to be Limoblaze?

Okay. I am Limoblaze, a man on a mission. My birth name is Samuel Imo Onwubiko, I’m a hardcore follower of Jesus, believer of the gospel and in simple terms, I make Jesus music. Being Limoblaze means I’m fulfilling my purpose. Everything I do and I have done till this point has been for one purpose only – knowing Christ and making Him known. And as the Lord helps me, it’s everything I’ll ever do. Although the art of creating may be fun and vibey, it counts for nothing if I am not fulfilling purpose.

How did your music journey begin and what inspires you to create every day?

My music journey began quite early. I’d say I had for a very long time while growing up been fascinated by hip hop coupled with the influence of my family – I come from a musical family, so there was a lot to listen to growing up. I started writing music when I was eight but I did not record any of those. What exists today officially started in 2012 when I put out my first song. It stemmed from a conviction that my music had a clear purpose. It was now left to me to stir it in the right direction. With God’s help, of course.

As for what inspires me to create everyday, it still traces back to my purpose. I learnt from time that I had something that was pivotal to the spread of the gospel in my generation. It might not have been through music, but knowing that this is the channel, it is important that I use it everyday. That understanding is my inspiration.

You've been making Christian music for quite some time now. Which of your achievements stand out for you?

Very humbly, it’s the impact of the music in the lives of the listeners. I can’t explain the joy I feel when I get feedback from them. Most recently, it’s the one from the Abuja listening party where Kaestrings and his wife shared a testimony of how “Over” saw them through a difficult time after giving birth to their child. It’s stories like that. People talk about the music being relatable, saving them from depression and helping them understand the depth of God's love. Awards can be cool, but the testimonies - they mean the most to me.

Your latest album, ‘Young & Chosen’, was released recently. Could you walk us through the inception and creative process of the project?

Some time ago, I would have thought the project dropping at this time was quite late, but with the way God works, everything happens right on time. Young & Chosen was a journey. There were hiccups, challenges, all of that. But there was also a lot of growth.

For me, there’s no linear process with creating music, but more often than not, it’s the melodies first before the words. That’s the way it was for Young & Chosen, except on tracks like Rest and Blesser. Overall, I explored a lot of sounds specifically tailored to the feel of the message I intend to pass and the theme of the album. Everything on it was intentionally curated, with a lot of revisions on what should or should not be on it. Also, I’ll add that it’s my first album since I was signed to Reach Records and a lot of that culture was reflected here.

Out of all the tracks on ‘Young & Chosen’, which is your favourite and what makes it special to you?

This is like asking a father to pick a favourite child. I don’t want to say the cliche “I don’t have a favourite” or “every song is my favourite”. Right now, I’ll say it’s “Rest”. Simply because it’s my current disposition. It feels like in the process of making the album, I began to understand the concept of resting in God even more. But my all-time favourite? Track 1 - 14. 

You’ve collaborated with several incredible artistes like Travis Greene, Ada Ehi, and Joe L Barnes. Are there any other artistes you'd love to work with in the future?

Off the top of my head, there’s Tori Kelly, Jonathan McReynolds, Brandon Lake, Kirk Franklin, Tauren Wells. To be honest, I think I have been privileged to work with many of the people I used to look forward to. Collaborations for me are not just about artiste popularity or audience. It’s more of an alignment of heart and purpose. I tend to also keep those within circles I already have friendships or relationships in.

How do you see your music, that is, the fusion of Afrobeats, hip-hop and gospel music, evolving in the coming years?

I have always been a progressive artiste. As sounds change and listeners adapt to them, it is important that I not necessarily change, but tweak or adjust my genre to where my audience is. The aim is to get as many people as possible to hear the message. I largely think about the concept of versatility and consistently listening to or paying attention to what’s on the waves. It is what will help me and probably someone out there evolve as music does. But the core of the message remains.

Also, I can’t say exactly how my music may evolve in the coming years because I don’t control the trajectory of my life or journey. I just go as God leads.