After years of shaping some of Afrobeats’ biggest records from behind the scenes, Kenwiza takes center stage with the release of his debut EP, Trips Vol. 1, an emotionally rich project that transforms the Manchester-based Nigerian producer’s acclaimed production expertise into a fully realized artistic statement.
Having amassed more than 300 million global streams, contributed to over one million records sold, and collaborated with artists including Gunna, Victony, Falz, and Victor Thompson, Kenwiza has established himself as one of the genre’s most respected producers. With Trips Vol. 1, however, he shifts from the background to the forefront, presenting a project driven by his own creative vision, storytelling, and curation.
Designed as both a musical journey and a reference to the Nigerian expression “catching trips,” the EP explores the emotional highs, uncertainties, excitement, and devotion that accompany love in its many forms. Across four carefully crafted tracks, Kenwiza creates an immersive listening experience that balances contemporary Afrobeats, R&B, and alternative influences while remaining deeply rooted in African musical identity.
Opening with “Yes!” featuring Puppatiya, the EP immediately embraces the exhilaration of new romance through infectious rhythms and vibrant melodies. “Glory,” featuring Jae Yo, follows with warm Afrobeats grooves that celebrate admiration and emotional connection, while “How?” featuring Mvce turns inward, capturing the vulnerability and uncertainty that often accompany love. The closing track, “Waiting,” featuring Doe Naju, offers a heartfelt conclusion, pairing airy R&B textures with tender vocals to reflect patience, commitment, and hope.
Despite spanning multiple collaborators and recording sessions across California, Ohio, Lagos, and Manchester, Trips Vol. 1 maintains a cohesive identity through Kenwiza’s signature production style. Rich synth basslines, textured chord progressions, detailed percussion, and spacious arrangements allow each featured artist to shine while reinforcing the project’s emotional continuity.
More than simply a producer’s showcase, the EP reflects Kenwiza’s commitment to elevating emerging talent. Rather than relying on established industry pathways, he personally selected each collaborator, built every soundscape around their strengths, and crafted a body of work rooted in trust, instinct, and genuine creative partnership.
Born and raised in Port Harcourt before relocating to Manchester, Kenwiza began producing music during his school years, experimenting with FL Studio while recording local artists during holidays. Since fully committing to music production in 2019, he has steadily built a reputation for blending technical precision with emotional depth. His accomplishments include a Platinum certification for his work on Victor Thompson’s global hit “This Year (Blessings)” and a nomination for Best Gospel Producer at the 2023 Beatz Awards.
For Kenwiza, Trips Vol. 1 represents more than a debut—it marks a declaration of artistic independence. Inspired by years of navigating missed opportunities and industry frustrations, the project reflects his decision to create opportunities on his own terms while championing the next generation of Afrobeats talent.
As the first installment of an ongoing series, with a second volume already planned later this year, Trips Vol. 1 establishes Kenwiza not only as one of Africa’s most accomplished producers but also as a visionary artist capable of building immersive musical worlds that connect cultures, emotions, and audiences across the globe.
