EscapeMag: You grew up in a home where music was always playing, and you started producing at age 10. What moment—or song—made you realize music wasn’t just a hobby, but something you wanted to pursue seriously?
Podoski: From my young days of idolizing, imitating, and obsessing over the iconic legend Michael Jackson, I always knew I wanted to be on stage. But I’d say the moment that gave me the confidence to start pursuing it seriously was the breakout era of young artists in Nigeria in the 2010s. Even though I was way younger than them, I just felt—if these guys can do it, why can’t I?
EscapeMag: You’ve mentioned that insecurities about your voice pushed you toward production. How did that shift shape the artist you’re becoming today, and what did learning to trust your own sound look like for you?
Podoski: My insecurities pushed me toward production, but production brought me back to my voice. Learning the technical side made me realize my sound had character, not flaws. Once I embraced that, everything changed. Trusting my voice became less about sounding like others and more about owning who I am.
EscapeMag: Your influences range from Michael Jackson to Wizkid, and you don’t confine yourself to one genre. What does “finding your own lane” look like at this stage of your journey, and what do you want listeners to feel when they hear a Podoski record?
Podoski: Right now, finding my own lane means blending those influences with my personal experiences and evolving into a sound that feels authentic to me. I’m experimenting, learning, and sharpening what makes my voice unique. When people hear my music, I want them to feel the emotion behind it—whether it’s a vibe, a memory, or pure enjoyment. I want it to connect.
EscapeMag: Your first track “ABENA” hit number one on ReverbNation in Benin City—an early win for any new artist. How did that moment change your confidence, your process, or the way people around you responded to your craft?
Podoski: I could feel the shift after that moment. People around me started paying more attention. They saw the potential, and the respect for my craft grew.
EscapeMag: You’ve been encouraged by respected figures like Mavin Grandpa, and you’re still carving your identity in a challenging industry. What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far about building a sustainable career as a young, emerging artist in Nigeria?
Podoski: The biggest lesson I’ve learned so far as an artist is to be brave enough to be original and patient enough to grow.
EscapeMag: Your stage name “Podoski” immediately reminds people of footballer Lukas Podolski. Is there a story behind choosing that name—was it inspired by football, or does it hold a different meaning for you?
Podoski: That name was actually given to me by my childhood home lesson teacher. He was the only one who called me that. I had a lot of nicknames growing up, but when it was time for me to pick a stage name, that name just felt right.
