Singer, songwriter and music producer, John Ighodaro, popularly known as Johnny Drille, tells NAOMI CHIMA about his life and career

What inspires your creative process, and how do you manage to fuse different styles seamlessly?

I have always loved storytelling. Growing up, I listened to a lot of folk, country, gospel, and alternative music. So, I draw inspiration from life, faith, love, and my everyday experiences. It’s got a bit of everything, and I personally think that’s how to make the most incredible music.

You’ve had an impressive run since joining Mavin Records. What’s been the most significant lesson you’ve learnt from Don Jazzy, and how has it impacted your music?

Being with Don Jazzy and Mavin Records has taught me the value of consistency and patience, building brick by brick. Sometimes it takes years for people to fully connect with a sound. He also encourages creative freedom and supports you to refine your identity, as well as make sure you’re heading in the right direction as an artiste.

Can you share the inspiration behind your tours and the Johnny Drille Room Live?

Johnny’s Room Live is very dear to me. It started from wanting to create an intimate space where my fans can truly connect with the music and with me. The energy and love I get from those rooms, which have grown to become large parks and halls, are indescribable. That’s it.


What are the significant experiences you have had on the tour, especially outside Nigeria?

It was surreal. The first time I heard people singing my lyrics back to me in a country that I’d never been to hit me in such a special way. It made me realise how music truly travels beyond borders. One significant moment was backstage after my show in Manchester (United Kingdom), and a couple came to me in tears, talking about how my music has helped their autistic son. That was very heartwarming to me.

Tell us about your family and educational trajectory and how it influenced your songwriting skills and lyrical depth.

I grew up in a Christian family; my dad is a pastor and was a school principal. Church music shaped a lot of my musical foundation. I started as a singer and keyboardist in my father’s church with my siblings at the age of 11 in 2001. I later joined a music group called Soul Awakening Singers with my siblings and some friends. I studied English and Literature at the University of Benin, Edo State, which deeply influenced my love for words and storytelling. That blend of faith, music, and literature shaped my approach to making intentional music.

What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learnt from your parents, and how has it influenced your values and approach to life?

I have learnt a lot from my family. My siblings were the only friends I had while growing up. My parents did not allow my siblings and I to go out often so that we wouldn’t mix up with the wrong people. But, one of the best lessons I learnt is this, “Never lose who you are, and never forget where you’re coming from.” I have always kept that in my heart to date.

How has fatherhood changed your perspective on life and music?


Becoming a father changes you in so many ways and yes it has changed me too. More than anything, I always want to be there for my daughter, just as my dad has been there for me. It’s a crazy world that we live in, and I want her to become the amazing person she’s destined to be. And that extends to the music as well; it has just made me more intentional about my storytelling.

How do you manage to keep your private life away from the public glare?

I believe some parts of life are sacred. I share what I’m comfortable with, but I keep my family life grounded and protected. It helps maintain peace of mind and allows me to nurture relationships without external pressure.

What’s the craziest or most memorable fan encounter you’ve ever had?

The craziest experience was with a fan who worked at a hotel and tried to sneak into my room around 3 am. It was a really scary experience. The most memorable would be seeing 3000 people show up for me at my first-ever live show in 2018. That day will always be special to me.

If you weren’t a musician, what other profession would you have pursued, and why?

If I weren’t a musician, I think I’d probably be a film director. I love storytelling; it is in my DNA. I naturally love creating emotional journeys, whether through lyrics or visuals.


What’s one thing you can’t live without on tour, and what’s the most essential item in your studio?

One thing I can’t live without on a tour, or the essential item in my studio, will most likely be my laptop, because it literally carries my whole work in it.

What do you consider to be your most significant contribution to the music industry?

I think I have brought something different. My style is different, and I have done what a lot of people were afraid to do, and excelled at it in the industry. So people can now try new trends and excel at them, too.

How do you hope to be remembered by future generations?

I want to be remembered as someone who made timeless and meaningful music. I want my generation and those unborn to remember me for that.

What’s your favourite food?


I love pounded yam and egusi soup (laughs).

How do you relax after a stressful day?

After a long day, I love spending quiet time with my family and/or watching a good movie.

What are your thoughts on the current state of the industry, and how do you think artistes can adapt to the ever-changing landscape?

The industry is fast-paced, oversaturated, and content-driven now. My thoughts are that artistes need to stay true to their sound while embracing new ways to connect. I have always known and will say that authenticity will always cut through the noise.

You’ve collaborated with many local and international artistes over the years. Who has been your most memorable collaborator, and what influence have they had on your music?

Working with Don Jazzy has changed my life in so many ways. He brought out a new layer of my sound. Another standout was collaborating with Styl-Plus, whose music I grew up on. It felt like a full-circle moment.