In this heartfelt edition of Custodian Conversations, we journey through melodies, memories, and moments with none other than Jeffrey Ufedo Akoh, fondly known as Jeff Akoh, the Nigerian singer, songwriter, and performing sensation whose voice feels like home.
From singing in the warmth of family gatherings to echoing through church pews, Jeff’s beginnings were filled with love, faith, and a quiet promise of greatness.
That promise unfolded beautifully in 2015 when he stole hearts and claimed the spotlight as the winner of MTN Project Fame West Africa Season 8. It wasn’t just a victory, it was the birth of a star whose sound continues to move listeners deeply.
But Jeff’s story began even before the lights of fame. As one half of the duo “Da Brodas,” alongside his brother, he took his first steps into the spotlight on Glo Naija Sings, showing the world that his passion for music ran deep. That early chapter may not have led to the prize, but it planted seeds of resilience and purpose that have since blossomed.
Today, Jeff Akoh stands tall as a soulful crooner with a voice that speaks of love, hope, and authenticity. With every note, he reminds us that music, when sung from the heart, can truly heal and inspire.
Sit through this exclusive conversation we had with Jeff, a gentle, grounded artist who continues to charm audiences with sincerity and soul.
Growth, Art, and Expression
Music Custodian: What do you remember most vividly about the day you won Project Fame?
Jeff Akoh: To be honest, the moment that lingers most in my heart is those final few minutes, right before they announced the winner. It was just 5 or 6 minutes, but it felt like time stood still. The nerves, the rush of emotions… it was this beautiful, overwhelming wave of “what ifs.” Would I be crowned the winner of a journey that spanned months, or would I simply become another name that passed through?
I was just 18 at the time, young, hopeful, and wide-eyed. And those few minutes taught me something I’ve carried ever since: life isn’t only about the big reveal or the life-changing moments. It’s about the full experience, the highs, the uncertainties, the lessons, the people, the growth.
Looking back, I’m deeply grateful. From the time in the academy to meeting amazing creatives, forming bonds, and competing alongside talent that inspired me, it was all priceless. That journey reminded me that every moment matters, and we should do what we can, with what we have, while we can.
That’s the memory that stays with me most, not just for the spotlight, but for the way it shaped how I see life today.
Music Custodian: Looking back, what misconceptions did you have about the industry before entering it
Jeff Akoh: One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned and probably the most humbling one is realizing that talent alone isn’t enough. When I was starting, I truly believed that having a great voice or strong vocal ability would be all I needed to thrive in this industry. But over time, I came to understand that that’s one of the biggest misconceptions out there.
In today’s music world, having a voice is beautiful, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. There’s so much more that goes into building a lasting career: the strategy, the branding, the consistency, the team, the timing. All of it matters.
So for me, that shift in perspective has been eye-opening. It’s helped me grow not just as an artist, but as a professional in a fast-moving, ever-evolving industry.
Early Days and the struggles of every Talent show winner
Music Custodian: How did you navigate the pressure and spotlight that came with winning at such a young age?
Jeff Akoh :Honestly, this feels a bit personal for me, but I’ve always been someone who handles pressure pretty well. I’m calm by nature, the kind of person who moves through life moment by moment, taking each experience as it comes with a clear head and steady heart. That calmness has helped me navigate so much, especially in the spotlight.
A huge part of that grounding comes from my family. I come from a deeply rooted and spiritual home, my parents and siblings have always been right there, holding me up and reminding me that at the end of the day, I’m still Jeff. The same guy chilling at home, playing FIFA, laughing with his siblings, nothing more, nothing less.
I’ve never really looked outward for validation. I’ve always focused on what’s real, on staying connected to who I am. Even during the high moments, like winning the competition, I saw it as just one step in a much bigger journey. Don’t get me wrong, I’m grateful, but I’ve always known that there’s more to conquer and more work to be done.
Self-awareness is everything. Especially for creatives. It’s easy to get lost in the noise or try to keep up with the next big thing, but for me, I’ve always been focused on my path. Unless you’re a once-in-a-lifetime legend like Michael Jackson or Messi, everything’s been done before. What matters is how you show up and how you grow.
I’m still on that journey. Still becoming. And I’m okay with that, because I know who I am, and I know where I’m headed.
Music Custodian: How would you describe the evolution of your sound from “Lokoja” to your latest releases?
Jeff Akoh: Lokoja came right after Project Fame, during my first record deal with Temple Music. I was still figuring myself out when the label decided to drop an album. To me, it felt more like a collection of moments than a true debut. Things later got tough, communication broke down, and I went quiet for nearly two years, battling depression and finishing out my contract during COVID.
By late 2022, I took a breather in the U.S., reconnected with myself, and began creating again. Music’s always been my therapy. In 2024, I released Portion, my first independent single, and that felt like a fresh start. I’ve been singing since I was 6, grounded in gospel and shaped by R&B. Now, I make heartfelt music for lovers like me, grateful, honest, and free.
Music Custodian: Who are your greatest vocal influences, both African and global?
Jeff Akoh: Growing up, I was deeply inspired by artists like Chris Brown, his voice, his range, and his artistry; it resonated with me. And then there’s Celine Dion… honestly, I think she has the most beautiful voice in the world. I could listen to her all day.
As I grew into my artistry, I found myself drawn to the sounds of home. Wizkid, Davido, Burna Boy, Kizz Daniel, Tiwa Savage, and Rema they’ve each carved out their unique path and sound, and I truly admire and respect what they bring to the table.
Music Custodian: How do you approach vocal arrangement and harmony? Do you follow instinct, or do you work from structure?
Jeff Akoh: Honestly, I let my instincts lead the way. When I’m recording, melody is always my starting point. I usually play around with different melodies, bundle them together, and then pick the ones that feel the most special to me. Once I have a strong melodic structure, that’s when I start to layer in the words.
Growing up, I didn’t listen to a lot of rap, so I’ve always been more drawn to how music feels rather than just the lyrics. For me, melody is everything, it carries the emotion, the soul of the song. These days, I know certain lyrics or slang can turn a track into a hit, but for me? Melody will always be king.
Music Custodian: What role does genre play in your artistry, especially in this genre-fluid era of Afropop?
Jeff Akoh: If I had to put a label on it, I’d say my music leans toward African R&B or maybe the soulful side of things. I love bringing my Africanness into the sound; that’s where the rhythms and heart come from. You could call it Afro-blues or Afro-whatever feels right, but honestly, I don’t like to box myself in. I just create music as it flows, from the heart and in the moment.
Music Custodian: Your songs often carry themes of love and vulnerability. Where does that openness come from?
Jeff Akoh: Every day, I live my life as a very emotional person. I have so much love for my mom, and I find myself drawn to love songs all day long. Whenever I hear a beat, my mind naturally wanders to how I can write something that expresses my appreciation for love and the amazing women in the world. I believe you can only give out what’s inside your heart, and that’s what always flows out of me in my music, pure love and gratitude.
Challenges and Lessons
Music Custodian: What has been your biggest “learning moment” in the last five years of your career?
Jeff Akoh: I’ve learned that everyone has their own time, and destiny can’t be rushed, when it’s meant to happen, it will happen, no matter what. So, the most important thing is to keep showing up every day, doing what you love. One day, all the hard work you’ve put in will shine through in your success.
Someone once shared a beautiful analogy with me that stuck: making music is like ringing a bell quietly for years, only you and a few close people hear it at first. But then, one day, that bell rings so loud that the whole world stops and asks, “What is that sound?” And those who’ve been listening all along will say, “Have you not been hearing this all this time?”
For me, the biggest lesson as an artist is patience and perseverance, showing up every day because you love what you do. If you don’t love it, it’s easy to give up. I make music because it’s my heart and soul. Whether success comes or not, I’ll keep making music for the rest of my life, and that’s the beautiful truth.
Music Custodian : How do you measure success now, chart positions, impact, growth?
Jeff Akoh: I know a lot of artists measure success by charts and numbers, but for me, I’ve learned that success is something you create for yourself. My standard doesn’t have to be anyone else’s or the industry’s. If I play my song and even just a few people love it or tell me it’s a great record, that’s success to me.
I also understand that I can’t compare my marketing budget to artists backed by bigger labels; we’re not playing on the same field. So, when success comes, it’s a joyful moment, but it doesn’t change my mindset because I know there are always people ahead of or behind me in different ways.
To me, success is found in the little things, waking up every day, singing, sharing my music with someone who connects with it, and growing as a person. My success isn’t about the world’s standards; it’s about becoming a better version of myself every day. That’s what truly matters to me.
Music Custodian: What are some misconceptions people still have about Jeff Akoh?
Jeff Akoh: Some people might say I come across as proud, but that’s not the case. I’m a quiet person who just likes to mind my own business, it’s nothing personal at all. I tend to keep a small circle of friends, and I’m not often out in places where lots of people can get to know me deeply. That’s just how I’m comfortable.
Music Custodian: You have a creative Chemistry with Ric Hassani. What´s the approach on that, or how did both of you decide to work together?
Jeff Akoh: Ric Hassani is such a humble and wonderful person. Whenever I reach out to him like, “Hey Ric, I need you on this record,” he’s always so willing and excited to be part of it. He has an amazing spirit and a great attitude. From a musical perspective, it just feels right to collaborate with him because he’s always open and ready to jump in, especially when he connects with a song. That’s truly the kind of person he is, and I appreciate that.
A new Jeff Akoh
Music Custodian: Can you walk us through the story and inspiration behind your latest release, “Muna Gi”?
Jeff Akoh: When Runcheck sent me the beat, the lyrics just came to me naturally, starting with, “Believe me for the love I get for you, baby, shey you go believe?” From there, I wanted to keep it simple and a little repetitive, but still full of melody and sweetness. Then the chorus came, and I was chatting with a friend about which Igbo words would flow well with the melody. He suggested “Muna Gi,” and that’s how everything beautifully came together. We wrote the whole track in about 25 minutes!
I immediately knew this was going to be my next single, even though I had another song ready to release since December. But this new one, recorded in January, just felt right. I’m really happy people are loving it, and there’s a video out for it too!
Also, my new EP is dropping very soon, hopefully next month, and I’m excited to share that I featured an amazing female South African artist on it.
Music Custodian: What feeling or message do you hope resonates most with listeners when they hear your music?
Jeff Akoh: Honestly, I want my music to make people feel love, to remind them that there are still good, loving hearts out there. Even though sometimes it seems like love is lost or everyone just wants to have fun without commitment, I want my songs to show that real love still exists. When people listen, I hope they feel that there are still those who truly want to give and share love. After all, people still get married and believe in lasting love, and that’s the message I want to keep alive through my music.
Music Custodian: What do you think platforms like Project Fame or Nigerian Idol need to evolve in today’s industry?
Jeff Akoh: I truly believe there’s still a big need for programs like that because so much talent is out there, people who can really sing but just need the right professional platform to shine. What I feel would help even more is making these shows more appealing to young people. When that happens, it will attract more investments, which is so important.
Shows like Project Fame started here in Nigeria but were inspired by programs from America and the UK. Even after many seasons and winners, they’ve kept going strong because they have a solid system and people willing to support them year after year.
What could take it to the next level is more investment to increase the prize money. With the current economy and currency challenges, a bigger prize would help winners kickstart their careers in a meaningful way.Also, improving transparency and creating a better, more competitive structure would make the academy even more exciting. That way, only the very best talents would be inspired to join.
At the end of the day, talent shows will always have a place; they bring out fresh voices and keep the music scene alive and vibrant.
Music Custodian: R&B in Nigeria has seen its highs and lows, would you say we’re entering a new wave right now?
Jeff Akoh: I feel like the past few years have been good for singers in Nigeria, until Amapiano came and kind of took the spotlight for a while. But honestly, there’s still plenty of room for R&B and other styles. Lately, I’ve discovered so much amazing talent, from Kummie to many others, and it’s clear that people are becoming more open and receptive to those sounds.
Right now feels like a beautiful moment for R&B in Nigeria and across Africa because, while Amapiano has its place, not everyone can do it authentically. R&B holds its own special space, and it always will. The key is to keep creating, evolving, and bringing fresh innovation to the music. That’s how we keep the vibe alive and thriving.
Music Custodian: How do you stay inspired creatively in an industry that’s so fast-paced?
Jeff Akoh: I just keep enjoying music and living my life every day, spending most of my time in the studio. Right now, I feel a little clocked out from the industry buzz, especially since I’m not in Nigeria and not fully tuned into everything happening there. But I stay inspired by everything around me, especially being in love.
I’ve never really been the type to play the industry game, and honestly, I don’t want to be. I do my own thing and create music because it uplifts me and connects with what my audience truly wants to feel. It’s not about trying to blow up or please everyone, it’s about sharing something genuine and meaningful.
Music Custodian: What role has family played in grounding or shaping your path?
Jeff Akoh: The beautiful thing is that my family has always been so supportive. Whenever I’m about to release a new song, my parents and the rest of my family always listen, whether they love it or not, they stand by me every step of the way. Their encouragement means the world to me, and honestly, having that kind of support from your closest loved ones is everything.
I’m grateful they’re always there for me, without any judgment or pressure. Of course, they’d love to hear me singing in church; that’s their heart’s desire, but no matter what, they love me and support my music journey wholeheartedly. Having their backing truly makes my path feel even more solid and special.
Music Custodian: Beyond the music, what are some things that bring you joy or help you stay grounded?
Jeff Akoh: I enjoy playing games and just spending time at home. I love binge-watching TV shows and movies, and I also enjoy going out to the cinema when I get the chance. Lately, I’ve been learning to explore new things because, honestly, if left to my own devices, I’d probably just stay indoors all day, playing FIFA, cooking, eating, and then catching some sleep. I’m a homebody through and through.
I do understand that as an artist, socializing is part of the journey, but I’m naturally a bit introverted, so I usually prefer to keep to myself and enjoy those quiet moments.
Music Custodian: What would we find on your current playlist?
Jeff Akoh: Right now, if you take a peek at my playlist, you’ll find a beautiful mix of songs like “Favor” by Lawrence and Godswill Oyor, “Bend” by Olivetheboy & Sarkodie, “Doingz” by Oxlade, and of course, my track, “Muna Gi.” These songs are what I’ve been enjoying lately; they each bring something special to my heart and vibe.
Music Custodian: What’s one African destination you’d love to perform in but haven’t yet?
Jeff Akoh: I think Tanzania is definitely on my list of African places I’d love to perform. I’ve heard such wonderful things, the beautiful people, rich culture, and of course, incredible singers. It feels like a special place where music and spirit come alive, and I’d be so honored to share my music there someday.
Thank you so much, truly. Big love to you and the incredible work you’re doing for the culture.
It’s not every day you come across a platform that genuinely champions voices that often go unheard, and I’m just grateful to be part of that light.
What you’re building is beautiful, and I pray it only grows stronger, reaching more hearts, more stories, and more artists like myself. I’m honored to have been here. Thank you for having me, and please keep going. The culture needs this.
As our conversation with Jeff Akoh winds down, one thing becomes clear, his journey is a tender blend of grace, grit, and growth. Through the highs and the heartaches, Jeff has remained grounded, pouring his truth into every note and carrying a voice that wraps itself around the soul.
With his forthcoming EP on the horizon, we’ll be right here listening, supporting, and celebrating each stride. Because when Jeff Akoh sings, the world feels a little softer, a little stronger, and a lot more seen.We can’t wait to experience what’s next.
Listen to Jeff Akoh´s music on our Custodian Gems Playlist.
