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Artist Spotlight 7th Edition: Akeem
Disruptive sounds, untold stories: Akeem breaks the mold in our latest artist spotlight! 🎵🔥
Blacknalt
May 17, 2025
Blacknalt Artist Spotlight 7th Edition: Akeem
Introduction
In a world where blending in is the norm, a bold few dare to stand out, disrupt expectations, and carve their own paths. Welcome to Blacknalt’s ARTIST SPOTLIGHT—a platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of rising BIPOC musicians who are reshaping the alternative music landscape.
Music has never been one-size-fits-all, and neither are the artists we highlight. While we embrace the alternative spirit, our spotlight isn’t confined to a single genre. From the electrifying riffs of rock to the hypnotic beats of K-pop, the soul-stirring melodies of R&B, the raw emotion of indie, and everything in between, we celebrate the innovators, the rule-breakers, and the storytellers who challenge the status quo.
This series is more than just a showcase—it’s a movement. It’s about recognizing the cultural depth, artistry, and resilience of BIPOC musicians who are pushing sonic boundaries and bringing fresh perspectives to the music industry. Each feature dives deep into their creative journeys, struggles, triumphs, and the influences that shape their sound.
So, whether you’re looking for your next favorite artist or simply love discovering music that defies expectations, Blacknalt’s ARTIST SPOTLIGHT is your front-row seat to the future of sound. Stay tuned, because these artists aren’t just making music—they’re making history.
Listen to the artist spotlight playlist here:
This is Akeem
Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from, and what do you create?
I am a multi-disciplinary artist from Chicago. I make rnb music!
What first inspired you to start making music?
One of my fav questions to answer. I remember being 6 years old watching BET and the music video to “Beautiful” came on with Pharrell and Snoop Dogg. i knew from that point on..I would make music. From the song itself to the beautiful women in the video. I was just totally enamored by it all.
How would you describe your sound in three words?
Passionate, vulnerable, and motivational.
What’s a dream collaboration for you?
Ummm did I mention Pharrell is my dad? Lmao. Naaa but currently I would love to work with Don Toliver, Charli XCX, Kendrick Lamar, Asake, SZA & Caroline Polachek. Oh yea, and of course my step dad Pharrell.
It’s an islamic name meaning wise but honestly I just always felt like my artist name should be Akeem. Something spiritual about it for me. However, it be hard to find my online so I go back and forth with changing my name. Smh.
Who are your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your style?
Michael Jackson, Sean Paul, Kid Cudi, Anita Baker, Drake, 80’s R&B, Phil Collins, Ye, and Pharrell. They all taught me that it was ok to be sensitive and feel. Sonically, alotta my style comes from these reference points. Also, I’m first generation Nigerian-American so I grew up on alotta African music as well. I be tryna make ppl dance and connect with the stories I tell.
Was there a specific moment when you knew you wanted to pursue music seriously?
Yes, I’ve always wanted to be a mega-producer. That’s really my specialty. i’m a producer first and singer 2nd. Once I dropped out of school in 2015, I knew for sure..that an institution would not feed me in the same way and just jumped off the porch after that. The real journey towards self-actualization began.
What’s something you wish more people understood about being an up-and-coming artist?
That growth is not linear. I am in my 10th year of making music and I’m still here. I’ve always believed in my abilities even when I was shy as a kid. I am deeply proud of myself for still being here pursuing my craft because it has definitely came with alot of beauty and plight.
What message or impact do you hope to leave with your music?
I’m doing this for the black creative kids in the back of the class withe a mind full of ideas. I want all my people free and living their best life. I want to use my platform to show as a heterosexual male that its ok to be vulnerable and express yourself honestly.
What’s next for you? Any upcoming projects or releases?
MORE MUSIC, of course.
Conclusion
There’s a rare balance in Akeem’s music: lush harmonies that feel soft and soulful, melodies that linger, and beats that hit just right—playful yet thoughtful, vibey yet profound. It’s music that makes you move, but also makes you feel. Their lyrics are reflective, poetic, often tinged with longing or clarity, offering listeners a glimpse into a mind that is both emotionally rich and musically daring.
It’s no overstatement to say Akeem has the makings of the next Frank Ocean. Not because they sound exactly alike—but because, like Frank, Akeem approaches music as a canvas for storytelling, mood, and identity. There’s a quiet confidence in their work, a refusal to rush, and a clear devotion to craft that makes their songs feel timeless.
In a musical era that often favors fast content over lasting impact, Akeem is a refreshing reminder that some of the best art takes time to bloom. And now that they’re blooming? There’s no turning back. Akeem isn’t just one to watch—they’re one to listen to on repeat, to root for, and to feel with. The next chapter is coming, and it’s going to be special.
Follow Akeem on all Platforms
That’s a wrap for this edition!
Thank you for joining us in another issue of Blacknalt. We hope the stories, insights, and perspectives we’ve shared today have inspired, informed, and entertained you. As always, we’re committed to bringing you the latest and greatest from the alternative spaces where people of color are making waves.
Until next time, keep supporting, keep creating, and keep shining in your own unique way. We’ll be back soon with more stories that need to be told.
Stay weird, stay real, and as always—stay Blacknalt.
With love and respect,
The Blacknalt Team