Unveiling the Music Mastermind: Meet Daps, the Go-To Music Director Taking the Industry by Storm
The African music industry is filled with incredibly talented artists, but behind every hit song and visually stunning music video is a music director who brings the artist's vision to life. Meet Daps, the rising star in the music industry who is quickly becoming the go-to music director for some of the biggest names in the African music scene.
With a career that spans over a decade, Daps has worked with a diverse range of artists, from established veterans to emerging talents, producing chart-topping tracks and masterminding visually stunning music videos. His unique approach to music production and his ability to bring the artist's vision to life has made him one of the most sought-after music directors in the industry.
As a music director, Daps is a complete package, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. He understands the importance of creating a cohesive aesthetic for an artist's music and branding, and his work reflects that. His music videos have been praised for their high-quality production values and attention to detail, making them some of the most visually stunning in the industry.
With a track record of producing hit songs and visually stunning music videos, Daps is quickly becoming a household name in the African music industry. He's the music director you need to know and follow, don't miss out.
AL: What’s a typical day in the life of DAPS look like?
DAPS: Morning routines, before your sleep, etc.
Wake up, check my phone/emails. If I have a crazy busy day, then I’ll write down a to-do list. See if I have any videos to pitch on, meetings to attend etc. Eat, eat, eat. Pilates if it’s on the schedule. Other than that, just work on my Gods From The Corner Brand, or plan world domination.
AL: What’s one item you can’t live without?
DAPS: The internet. I NEED that.
AL: How would you describe your personal style?
DAPS: It’s a mix really. I’m either in streetwear, sweats, or smart casual. Depending on the occasion. For an award show, you know I have to show out! Shut down the gram real quick haha.
AL: How does coming from Nigeria, living in London and now the U.S. influence your work?
DAPS: This gives me a very unique perspective. I’m multi-cultured and can reference different ideas and art forms from all over the world. It has also helped me to be able to do well in afrobeats, grime, and rap simultaneously. I’m the first person ever to make culture shifting content in those three genres at once.
AL: When did you know that directing was what you wanted to be doing with your life?
DAPS: Directing is a facet of my life. Music videos is a stepping stone to other things I want to do. I just like creating in general - I have a LOT of things to accomplish. This is the start haha.
AL: Has there been anything about your life that you’ve had to change since launching your career?
DAPS: Nothing crazy. But I’m definitely aware of my presence and reach. So I’m more mindful with what I say and how I do conduct myself. Bad news travels fast.
AL: What directs or inspires your decision to take on a new project?
DAPS: Does it sound good. Is it wavy. Is it cool. Everything else radiates from that.
AL: You have a very specific aesthetic, why do you think so many people are drawn to your work?
DAPS: I make the streets look good. I make urban content look good. I take things you’re used to seeing and put a little twist on it. Things that make you say “aaah!” or grab your attention. It’s not too left field where the casual viewer won’t feel connected. And it’s not too normal where the artistic viewer will be bored.
AL: What are some pivotal projects you’ve worked on to get to where you are now?
DAPS: Iggy Azalea “Black Widow” featuring Rita Ora. I was 2nd unit director on that. Bad & Boujee. T-Shirt. Stormzy’s “Big For Your Boots”. Come Closer. I thought Davido’s “Like Dat” would have way more of an impact. I love that video.
(this article was originally published on July 6, 2019)