By Joey Average
The email came in quietly. An introduction. A short pitch. A name that felt familiar before I even finished reading.
I did what I always do, I researched. I listened to the music, read between the lines, paid attention to how she moved. And it became clear very quickly that this wasn’t just another feature. There was alignment here. Intent. Substance. A shared understanding of what it means to build without waiting for permission.
So we spoke. About setbacks. About survival. About faith, identity, and the quiet strength it takes to keep going when the industry doesn’t clap for you.
This is that conversation, very grounded and deeply personal.
Welcome to Kohsea, in her own words.
EscapeMag:
You’ve described your journey as choosing not to wait for industry approval. What moments early on made you realise that playing by the usual rules was not for you?
Kohsea:
In 2023, I experienced my first major setback in music. A label wanted to sign me, but because we stood against some of the contract details, we mutually decided to part ways. What made it harder was that I had already rejected other label opportunities for this one that did not amount to anything.
Suddenly, I found myself in survival mode. I had plans to permanently move from Port Harcourt to Lagos, so I started working tables at a club just to put food on the table and keep a roof over my head. At that point, I was surviving, not living the life I had dreamed of. That dream felt very far away because I had put all my eggs in one basket.
That moment changed everything for me. It made me realise that playing by the rules was no longer an option. After surviving that phase, I had to work for my space in this industry from the roots with no shortcuts and that is still what I am doing.
EscapeMag:
As a woman finding her place in the Nigerian music industry, what realities do you think are rarely spoken about, especially behind the scenes?
Kohsea:
Finding my place in the Nigerian music industry as a woman has been challenging, but I genuinely love what I do. No matter how hard things get, belief and faith are what keep me going.
One of the harsh realities is being constantly sexualised. You often catch sexual gazes from men, even in professional environments, which can make the space uncomfortable. Although it should not be this way, I have learned to build a tough shell and not let it affect my work.
It does not scare or unsettle me anymore because I understand the essence I carry. I protect myself from anyone who does not see my skill and potential first. The spotlight is not given, it is taken, and I will take it.
EscapeMag:
How much of your music is shaped by the personal struggles you have faced as an artist?
Kohsea:
My music is deeply personal. Almost every song is connected to something I have lived through, whether it is self doubt, love, rejection, resilience, or growth. I do not separate my struggles from my art because those struggles are the foundation of the honesty and storytelling in my music.
Even when a song sounds soft or upbeat, there is usually a deeper story underneath the lyrics. Music has been my way of processing pain and transforming it into something meaningful.
EscapeMag:
Coming from Anambra State and being raised in Port Harcourt, how have your background and upbringing influenced your sound and sense of identity?
Kohsea:
Growing up in Port Harcourt was a remarkable experience that shaped my sound. It exposed me to a blend of Western music and Pitakwa vibes. I also speak pidgin. That environment helped me understand the versatility of music and showed me that there are no boundaries.
Being a proud Anambra Igbo girl also influenced my stage name. My real name, Kosisochukwu, inspired the name Kohsea. I love how it connects me to my hometown and allows me to stay true to who I am without straying too far from my government name.
EscapeMag:
You studied Human Anatomy before fully committing to music. What did it take emotionally and mentally to trust your instincts and make that leap?
I am a graduate of the University of Port Harcourt with a bachelor’s degree in Human Anatomy Medical Science, and finishing school was one of the greatest decisions I ever made.
I believe there is nothing happening in your life that is not ordained by God. I recorded my first song without telling anyone in my family. Even after releasing it, I tried to keep my music life quiet back home. Despite playing small and safe, I was invited to open a stage for Omah Lay in Port Harcourt and later for DanDizzy 2.0.
That was the moment I knew I could not hide anymore. Still, I promised myself that I would finish school first before fully giving myself to the pursuit of my passion and dreams.
