ODG HAZe: Photos, Videos & biography

ODG Haze is a Nigerian-born, Chicago-based multi-instrumentalist, producer, singer, songwriter, guitarist, and dynamic live performer. Rooted in years of musical experience, his artistry blends the richness of live instrumentation with the energy and contemporary sound of Afrobeats, creating music that is rhythmically powerful, emotionally expressive, and uniquely his own.

ODG Haze began his musical journey as a drummer before expanding his talents to the keyboard, guitar, songwriting, music production, and vocal performance. His diverse musical background has helped shape a signature sound that combines traditional musicianship with modern Afrobeats influences. Through his ability to write, produce, sing, and perform, he brings creativity, versatility, and authenticity to every project.

Following the release of his debut EP, More Than Sound, ODG Haze has continued to gain recognition for his immersive and engaging live performances. His shows go beyond traditional concerts by bringing together powerful vocals, expressive dance, live guitar, energetic movement, and compelling storytelling. Each performance is designed to create a meaningful connection between the artist, the music, and the audience.

Driven by the belief that music should reveal something deeper than entertainment alone, ODG Haze approaches every song and every stage with purpose and intention. Whether delivering high-energy choreography, commanding the stage with captivating presence, or creating an intimate moment through live guitar, he brings emotion, musicianship, and authenticity to every performance.

As an independent artist, ODG Haze is expanding his presence beyond Chicago and connecting with audiences in new markets throughout the United States. With a sound shaped by live musicianship and a performance style that seamlessly combines singing, dancing, songwriting, production, and instrumental excellence, he is creating a lane that is distinctly his own.

ODG Haze represents a new generation of Afrobeats artists who are pushing creative boundaries while honoring the power of live performance. As his audience continues to grow, he is establishing himself as a compelling performer and an emerging artist to watch. His journey is guided by passion, purpose, and the belief that great music should leave a lasting impression.

#ODGHAZE #KENDESI #KENDESIMEDIA 

 Interview with ODG Haze

Interviewer: Kendesi Mohammed

Artist: ODG Haze

1. Kendesi Mohammed: 

You started your musical journey as a drummer before expanding into guitar, keyboard, production, songwriting, and vocals. How did learning multiple instruments shape the artist you are today?

ODG Haze:

Everything started with rhythm. Drums taught me timing, energy, and how music makes people feel physically. As I learned keyboard, guitar, production, songwriting, and vocals, I stopped seeing music as separate parts and started seeing it as one complete experience. Every instrument taught me a different language, and today they all come together in the way I write, produce, and perform.

2. Kendesi Mohammed: 

Your music blends live instrumentation with contemporary Afrobeats. How do you balance traditional musicianship with the modern sounds influencing today’s global music scene?

ODG Haze:

I don’t see live instrumentation and Afrobeats as opposites. Afrobeats has always been rooted in musicianship. I simply use modern production while keeping the soul of live music alive. Whether it’s guitar, keys, or rhythm, I want people to feel that there’s a real musician behind every song.

3. Kendesi Mohammed: 

Your debut EP is titled More Than Sound. What inspired that title, and what message or emotions did you want listeners to experience through the project?

ODG Haze:

More Than Sound reflects my belief that music should do more than just sound good. It should move people emotionally, spiritually, and personally. Every song on the EP carries a different emotion, but together they tell a story of growth, identity, and purpose. I wanted listeners to walk away feeling something beyond the music itself.

4. Kendesi Mohammed: 

Your performances combine singing, dancing, live guitar, and storytelling. What can fans expect when they experience an ODG Haze live performance?

ODG Haze:

Energy. Emotion. Rhythm. I don’t believe in people simply watching me perform, I want them to experience it with me. Whether I’m singing, dancing, playing guitar, or interacting with the audience, my goal is to make every performance feel alive and unforgettable.

5. Kendesi Mohammed: 

As a Nigerian-born artist now based in Chicago, how have your cultural background and your experiences in the United States influenced your sound and creative identity?

ODG Haze:

Nigeria gave me my musical roots, while Chicago expanded my perspective. Growing up around African music shaped my rhythms and melodies, while living in the U.S. exposed me to different cultures and sounds. Together they’ve helped me create music that feels authentic to who I am while connecting with audiences from different backgrounds.

6. Kendesi Mohammed: 

Many artists focus mainly on recorded music, but you emphasize the importance of live performance. Why is creating a connection with audiences on stage so important to you?

ODG Haze:

A song becomes real when people experience it together. Streaming is important, but nothing compares to looking into the audience and seeing people respond in real time. Live performance allows me to share not just my music, but my personality, my musicianship, and my heart.

7. Kendesi Mohammed: 

You are an independent artist building your career and expanding into new markets across the United States. What challenges have you faced, and what lessons have helped you grow?

ODG Haze:

One of the biggest lessons has been learning to create opportunities instead of waiting for them. As an independent artist, you wear many hats, but I’ve learned that consistency, preparation, and relationships matter just as much as talent. Every new city, every new audience, and every performance is another opportunity to grow.

8. Kendesi Mohammed: 

Who are some musicians, producers, or cultural influences that have inspired your artistic style and approach to performance?

ODG Haze:

As a producer, I’ve always admired Sarz and Northboi for the way they blend Afrobeats with rich musicality and intentional production. As a performer, I’ve been inspired by Michael Jackson. The way he commanded the stage and created unforgettable experiences for his audience has had a huge influence on how I approach live performance.

9. Kendesi Mohammed: 

You describe your music as being about more than entertainment. What stories, emotions, or experiences do you hope listeners take away from your songs?

ODG Haze:

I hope people find honesty in my music. Whether it’s joy, reflection, hope, love, or perseverance, I want listeners to see parts of themselves in my songs. If someone walks away feeling understood or encouraged, then I’ve accomplished something bigger than simply making music.

10. Kendesi Mohammed: 

As your career continues to grow, what are your goals for the future, and where do you hope to see ODG Haze as an artist in the next few years?

ODG Haze:

I want to continue building a career that reaches people across different cities and countries through both recorded music and live performances. My goal is to perform on bigger stages, collaborate with great artists, and continue representing African music while staying true to my identity. More importantly, I want ODG Haze to become a name people associate with excellence, authenticity, and unforgettable live experiences.

#ODGHAZE #KENDESI #KENDESIMEDIA