LEON REMNANT: REDEMPTION, RESILIENCE AND THE RETURN HOME

 

Music And Moments With Leon Remnant

Issue 14.0 Jan. 2026

Interview Conducted by Ayo Fabiyi
Designed by Chiagozie Mbuba Tochukwu

Leon Remnant is back. Fifteen years away from home, navigating the music scene in the United States, and countless lessons learned, he returns with a sound that is raw, inspirational, and unmistakably his. From soccer fields in Ondo State to studios across continents, Leon opens up about his journey, his struggles, and his highly anticipated EP, Redemption.

Let us start from the beginning. Who was Leon Remnant before the music, away from the fame and the stage? 

Leon: I am a sports fan. I used to play soccer from high school through college in Nigeria. I represented Ondo State and also played for my college team. Initially, I wanted to become a soccer player, but life changed and music took over.

When did music stop being fun and start becoming your purpose?

Leon: My music journey started when Ruggedman and Eedris Abdulkareem were dominating the rap scene. I gained interest from listening to them and mimicking their songs. When I got to Adeyemi College of Education in Ondo State, I formed a group called J'slogs with another artist, just the two of us. But we were part of a larger community of artists who all stuck together and collaborated. There was West Tribe with 2 artists, Top Cloud with 2 artists as well, and we all worked closely together. That's when music really became more than just a hobby for me. 

In an industry where standing out requires strategy, what early decision shifted your career?

Leon: I had to learn the process because I did not want to follow trends. I wanted to create a sound that people would immediately recognize as mine. I started as a secular artist, but over time, I gravitated toward inspirational music. I do not make songs for clubs or trends. I make music based on how I feel, and my fans love that authenticity.

Your album Faith Over Fear resonated deeply. Was the title personal to you? Did you doubt yourself during the process?

Leon: Faith Over Fear was my first project and it came during the pandemic. Everyone was locked down, and I saw it as an opportunity to focus. Living in the United States, the hustle is constant, so I could not be a full-time artist yet. During lockdown, I locked in. Most of the project was done on Zoom with producers and engineers in Nigeria.

After that release, I took a break from putting out music to work on my sound and myself. Now, I feel ready to come back.

You have worked with Mike Abdul, Naomi Mac and the Rooftop MCs. Which collaboration challenged you the most creatively?

Leon:

My first collaboration was with Rooftop MCs and Sokleva, which pushed me because they were heavyweight rappers. It made me step up my game.

Mike Abdul was also challenging because he is very selective. My team reached out to him, he sent me his draft verses unmixed after listening to my previous records. I recorded my two verses  and sent it to the engineer first. He listened, liked it, and added his own. That collaboration built a bond. Infact his engineer eventually ended up been the engineer that mixed and mastered my whole album Faith over Fear. He also produced Like you, we move and fall on me off the album. I just sent my verse, and they added theirs. The engineer's name is Tyanx. He scores most of the top movies in Nigeria right now. He’s worked with big names like Funke Akindele and Femi Adebayo, creating the soundtracks for their films. He's scored some of the most popular movies in cinemas; films like Lisabi, Seven Doors, Gangs of Lagos, Jagun Jagun, and Battle on Buka Street, just to name a few. 

If someone is hearing your music for the first time, what track should they start with?

Leon: Pressure, my last single with Sossick. That song is very personal. Back when Dagrin released the CEO album with Sossick, it inspired me. I always wanted to work with Sossick. Last year, I shared my vision with him about creating an album together, and we decided to release Pressure first. People loved it, and I recommend it because it represents both the journey and what I aim to achieve musically.

Your upcoming EP is ready. How would you describe the story, themes and vibe to someone who has not heard it?

Leon: People say I have changed my style, and that is because I can rap gospel in a way that surprises you. You might think it is secular until you listen closely.

The EP has a street gospel vibe. People keep asking if I am a secular or gospel artist, All I will say is enjoy the ART. I’m an artist and I’m also a believer of Faith in a Christ. I could speak about my journey of faith in a song and next songs could be about my life experiences with is totally not related to my faiths or beliefs. I make musics based on my emotions and feelings. I called it pure arts. I let everything out when I hear the instrumental.

Redemption is about showing people the real me, sharing my story and growth, and giving listeners a chance to experience my evolution.

You are building your career in the United States, but Nigeria is still home. Are there plans to return? 

Leon: Yes. I was in Nigeria last year after being away for eleven years. I have lived in the United States for fifteen years. I plan to return next year for media runs and to promote my EP and album. 

What would that homecoming look like? Shows, collaborations or something bigger?

Leon: I am planning a big project with Sossick. We intend to create fifteen to twenty songs, and once they are ready, we will decide which artists fit best to contribute. I want to launch the album in Nigeria with a concert because it is a comeback, and I want people to connect with my music. 

You talk a lot about inspiring youth. Can you describe a moment when you realized your music was making an impact? 

Leon: In the United States, I first tried to sound like the mainstream artists, but I realized that being true to myself worked better. My style is inspirational, and it started resonating with listeners who appreciate authenticity. People might judge me by appearance at first, but once they hear the music, they understand the message.

What has been your toughest moment in this journey? 

Leon: One of my biggest struggles has been working with people who promised to help push my projects forward but didn't deliver on those promises. The work they put in wasn't up to the standard we'd agreed upon, and it didn't meet my expectations. It was really discouraging, and there were moments I felt like giving up. But encouragement from the right people kept me going. Then I connected with Solid Guy Magazine, and I knew I was finally in safe hands with people who genuinely cared and followed through. 

When things do not go as planned, how do you reset mentally and spiritually? 

Leon: I have had records that did not perform as I expected. Even the song with Mike Abdul had strong media runs, but being away from Nigeria affected the impact because I could not perform or promote.

Now, my focus is on building an organic fanbase, even if it is only one hundred people. I want people who truly understand and connect with my music, not just numbers or charts. 

Who is on your dream collaboration list? 

Leon: In gospel, Lecrae.

Outside of that, J Cole and Kanye West.

In Nigeria, Brymo, Asa, Bnxn and Vector.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Leon: Work harder and be consistent.

Away from the music and persona, who is Leon Remnant when no one is watching?

Leon: I am family oriented and a sports lover. I am someone who values personal growth and staying true to myself.

Before we wrap up, what can fans expect from you in this new chapter?

Leon: Fans should expect authenticity, growth and evolution. This chapter is about reconnecting with my roots, sharing my journey, and making music that resonates deeply. Every song I release will have purpose, and I want to build a community that understands and feels my story. It is not about hype or charts, but about making a lasting impact and showing the real Leon Remnant.

 

After sharing his journey, challenges, and vision, Leon Remnant leaves no doubt: this is just the beginning. Redemption is more than music.. it  is his story, his growth, and his invitation for listeners to experience him fully. Remember to Stay Solid!

Ayo Fabiyi for Solid Guy Magazine.

 “Banga!” – RewardBeatz Talks Hits, Hustle, and the Future of Afrobeats.

Behind The Booth with RewardBeatz "Banga!"

Special Issue Nov. 2025

Interview Conducted by Ayo Fabiyi

Designed by Chiagozie Mbuba

From crafting beats that make the streets move to producing records that top global charts, RewardBeatz has carved his place as one of the most influential producers in Afrobeats today. With smash hits like Buga, RTID, Xtra Cool, and most recently the Kidd Carder and Young Jonn collaboration Calculate II Remix, his sound has become a cultural marker that travels beyond Nigeria to every corner of the world. In this exclusive interview with Solid Guy Magazine, RewardBeatz opens up about his journey, the magic behind his signature tag “Banga,” his creative process, and his vision for the next wave of producers coming after him.

Q. You’ve been behind some of the biggest Afrobeats records of the last few years. Take us back.. how did your journey into music production begin, and what was the turning point where you felt things were really starting to click?

A. My music journey actually started back in my university days. I needed something productive to pour my energy into outside of schoolwork, and music had always been a passion since childhood. That curiosity pushed me into learning production. Then COVID happened, suddenly I had time to really lock in, practice every day, and improve. After the lockdown, I met T-Classic and we created La Cream. From that moment, I knew this wasn’t just a hobby anymore.

Q. You’ve produced massive hits like Buga, RTID, and Xtra Cool. What was it like working on those records, and did you ever imagine they’d travel so far and connect with the world the way they did?

A. Honestly, every time I’m working on a new song, my mindset is always to make something great, something that will connect. So seeing those songs travel like that, makes me so proud. I am so happy to be part of records that became cultural moments. And yes, I always imagine the music going far. You have to believe in the sound first before anyone else does.

Q. You recently produced Kidd Carder and Young Jonn’s Calculate II Remix, which is already buzzing heavy. How did that collaboration happen, and what makes the track special for you compared to your previous works?

A. At the time, I was actually living in the same place as Kidd Carder, so the connection was natural. We’d create just based on vibe... no pressure. Calculate was one of those ideas that felt special from the beginning. The remix with Young Jonn elevated it even more. What stands out for me is the energy and how fresh, youthful, and authentic the song is.

Q. Your producer tag “Banga” has become instantly recognizable. What’s the story behind it, and how important do you think a tag is to a producer’s identity in today’s music scene?

A. Producer tags are like a signature, they give recognition to the mind behind the music. “Banga” came from wanting something short, catchy, and memorable. The moment you hear it, you already know RewardBeatz is responsible for the vibe. In today’s world where producers are stepping into the spotlight more, that identity is important. Plus, a lot of consumers just don't have the energy to go and check the credits.

Q. Your sound balances street vibes with mainstream appeal. How do you approach creating beats that speak to both the culture at home and audiences abroad?

A. Omo i really dont know how to respond to  this question, I just create from the heart. I’m inspired by the streets, the rawness, the bounce but I also pay attention to melodies and elements that feel universal. I don’t overthink it. The music finds its balance naturally.

Q. As someone who’s worked with big names in the industry, what do you look out for in an artist before deciding to collaborate with them?

A. For me, it’s all about the energy and how good the sound is. I’m always open to working with new talents just as much as established names. If the vibe is right and we can make something beautiful together, I’m in.

Q. Producers are often the unsung heroes of the music industry. Do you feel like producers in Afrobeats are finally getting their flowers, or is there still more work to be done?

A. We’re getting more recognition than before, for sure but there’s still plenty of room for growth. Producers are a huge part of Afrobeats’ global success, and the industry is just beginning to fully celebrate that.

Q. Every producer has their creative process. What does a typical studio session with RewardBeatz look like, from idea to finished song?

A. The best way to understand it is to experience it. It’s all vibe-driven. There’s a lot of experimenting, a lot of energy, and most times magic just happens unexpectedly.

Q. Many young producers look up to you. Do you see yourself starting an academy or a platform to mentor and support upcoming producers in the near future?

A. Definitely! At some point, I’d love to mentor upcoming producers and provide opportunities I didn’t have early on. When the time and structure is right, it will happen.

Q. Finally, when people look back at RewardBeatz years from now, what do you want your legacy in music to be?

A. Greatness. I want people to look back and say RewardBeatz played a major role in shaping Afrobeats and pushing the sound forward globally. That’s the mission.

RewardBeatz is not just creating music, he is shaping the culture. Every time you hear that “Banga” tag, remember it is a stamp of history being made. For us at Solid Guy Mag and for every reader tuned in, his journey is a reminder that Afrobeats is in safe hands and the future is already here. Remember to Stay Solid!

When you talk about Ghana’s freshest voices, Kimilist comes with heat, hunger and heavy ambition. From making waves back at KNUST to building a solid run with Mimlife Records, he’s taken his time, sharpened his sound and stayed authentic. Tracks like Confession and Peng Tin shows he’s not just chasing charts, he’s chasing legacy. As his new single Bad Boy drops, Solid Online Mag  caught up with him to talk about the journey, the vision and why the world is about to move to his sound.

Q. You came up in Kumasi and really made a mark at KNUST. What part of that journey still keeps you grounded?

A. what keeps me grounded is remembering where it all started , i still carry the lessons from the long nights , the grind , how supportive the people have been , they all remind me that no matter how far I go, I come from a place that values hard work, community, and staying authentic to your roots.

Q. What made you trust Mimlife Records, and how has that relationship shaped the way you move?

A. What made me trust Mimlife Records was the vision and the belief they had in me not just as an artist, but as a person with a story worth telling. From the first conversations, it wasn’t just about music; it was about legacy, direction, and staying true to who I am. They saw the bigger picture before the world did. i move with  intention and clarity,  I’ve learned to value structure without losing my creative edge . With Mimlife, it’s more than a label , it’s a family.

Q. What was the first moment you knew your name started carrying real weight?

A. I knew my name started carrying real weight after my song Sika was released ,people I didn’t know personally started referencing my work Whether it was fans singing word for word, or industry people speaking on moves I hadn’t even made public yet.

Q. From Pon Gidi to Confession to Peng Tin, which is my personal favorite.. your sound keeps evolving. What’s one thing that’s stayed the same about how you create?

A. whether it’s a street anthem, a party banger, or something smooth .I always make sure the music reflects where I am mentally and emotionally.  I create to connect, to tell stories, and to represent where I’m from and where I’m headed. The production may shift, the delivery might sharpen, but the heart behind it never changed.

Q.  A lot of people make songs. You make statements.When you step into the booth, are you trying to prove a point or just tell your truth?

A. I’m not walking into the booth to compete, I’m walking in to express and to put feeling into sound. I don’t force it  I live it, then I put it into music. Whether it’s pain, joy, hunger, or wins, every line comes from a real place. That’s why it resonates.

Q. That track with Black Sherif and Kwame Yesu is crazy. How did that link-up happen and what did it do for you as an artist?

That tune was special. The link up happened naturally because I’d been recording with Kwame Yesu for a minute and Black Sherif was already making waves .it just made sense. No egos, just vibes, purpose, and mad hunger

Q. Bad Boy is out and it’s hitting hard. What made you feel like it was time to drop it, and what kind of impact were you aiming to leave with this one?

A. Bad Boy had been living in me for a while. The timing felt right because I was in a space where I needed to remind people about myself , the culture  and a true original Ghanaian sound  which makes me connected to the my roots and it wasn’t just about chasing a sound but owning one . Bad boy is more than music it’s a movement now and everybody is starting tapping into it.

Q. You dropped Bad Boy Diaries last year. Is this next phase a continuation of that story or are you in a whole new space creatively?

A. I’m still that bad boy, but the perspective has shifted. More clarity, more intention, more layers. It’s not just a continuation it’s an elevation. Creatively, I’m in a new space experimenting more sounds that will keep resonating with the people .

Q. You’ve been nominated more than once at the Ghana Music Awards UK. Does stuff like that push you harder or do you not get carried away with it?

A. it’s definitely a blessing. I won’t lie, it feels good to see the work get recognized, especially on platforms outside home. But I don’t let it carry me away . It pushes me to keep leveling up, to stay consistent, to prove to myself that I’m growing. Awards are moments, but the mission is bigger. 

Q. Ghana’s rap scene is evolving fast. What rules are you intentionally breaking with your sound?

A. I’m not limiting myself to what rap is supposed to sound like. One day it’s trap, the next it’s highlife infused, or fully melodic and it’s still me. i’m not following a blueprint .i’m writing my own but staying original. 

Q. Outside music, what’s something you’re building that most people don’t know about yet?

A. Music opened the door, but I’m thinking long-term ownership, impact, and influence that outlives the trends. I don’t talk about it much, because I believe in moving in silence ‘til it’s time. But trust, when it lands, it’ll speak loud.

Q. Are you looking at touring across Africa anytime soon or featuring artists across the continent? We need your sound outside Ghana, places like Nigeria, South Africa are definitely ready for it.

A. Touring across Africa and connecting with artists across the continent isn’t just a goal it’s the next step. I know the sound is ready, and more importantly, the message is universal. Whether it’s Nigeria, South Africa, or beyond and also i love to explore for more inspiration .

Q. In five years, when people mention Kimilist, what do you want that name to represent because honestly, your sound feels global and people will definitely connect with it.

A. I want people to hear Kimilist and feel something original , energy, emotion. Not just music, but a movement . a brand that stayed true to its roots while reaching the world.

That’s a wrap with Kimilist,  an artist whose sound is sharp, fresh, and global. If you weren’t already locked in, now’s the time. Keep streaming, keep sharing, and watch this space, the spotlight just got brighter. That’s it for now, but the journey continues. Most importantly, remember to Stay Solid!

Ayo Fabiyi for Solid Guy Magazine.

From The Studio To The Spotlight with Owan & Larbi

Issue 5.0 (May. 2025)

Interview conducted by Ayo Fabiyi

Design: Mbuba Chiagozie Tochukwu 

Ghanaian duo Owan&Larbi have been making waves with their unique blend of sound and heartfelt lyrics. After dropping their EP Here’s to New Beginnings in 2024, they’ve continued to captivate audiences with their journey and artistry. With their latest single “She Bad” marking a new chapter, Solid Guy Magazine caught up with the duo to discuss their creative process, the lessons they’ve learned, and what the future holds.

Q. You’ve been together for a while now. How did Owan&Larbi come to be, and what brought you together as a duo?

A. It all started with us free styling to beats during one of our vacation days. This is around the time we were in the university.

 

Q. Here’s to New Beginnings was a turning point for many fans discovering your sound. What message or feeling did you want to convey through that project?

A. The sense of a new beginning. Also, we had just started making music professionally, so the tape served as a rite of passage to our target audience.

 

Q. How do you feel you’ve grown as artists since the release of that EP last year? Has your approach to music changed in any way?

A. We have been more consciously involved in the curation of the sound for this phase of ours. With the EP we had the beats that spoke to us sonically and as a result we came up with the befitting lyrics.

Q. “She Bad” has a different vibe compared to some of your previous songs. What does this track represent for you both, personally and as artists?

A. Our very first attempt at being more hands on with the production together with our producer friend ‘Probenny’ and this how it turned out. We had an overwhelming amount of positive feedback on the resonance of the sound. This represents growth and the potential for more exploration in the future. Our next single has that similar potential, wait on it.

 

Q. Every artist faces challenges in the industry. What would you say has been the hardest part of navigating the music scene, especially in Ghana?

A. There aren’t enough opportunities and avenues for Artists like us, especially on the come up. Almost everything too hinges on a transactional relationship which usually doesn’t yield the desired outcome because not all the stakeholders truly see the industry for how it actually operates.

Q. Your sound is very distinct. How do you stay true to that while also experimenting with new genres or styles, like with “She Bad”?

A. There is a versatility gene in us. We explore a lot but there is one that is for sure, whenever you hear an Owan & Larbi song, you would just feel it.

 

Q. As a duo, how do you manage creative differences? Do you both have specific roles when working on a song?

A. First of all we are more like brothers. The synergy between us is always great. It sometimes feels magical when we realize that we have just birthed a song without even going about it to the stringent standards. Music creation isn’t formulaic.

 

Q. A lot of your music feels like it’s a conversation with your audience. What’s the core message you want listeners to take away from your songs?

A. The message is that they have this duo in their corner that they can always listen to.

 

Q. Onnine seems to be a significant part of your journey. How did your collaboration with them come about, and how has that partnership influenced your sound and career?

A. Another brother who has been around since this whole thing started. He is such an amazing artist that everyone should check him out. There is so much coming from respective camps. You guys would love it.

 

Q. Looking ahead, what does 2025 have in store for Owan & Larbi? Should fans expect more singles like “She Bad,” or is there a larger project coming soon?

A. They should expect more music. Owan & Larbi season is here!

 

Q. In such a fast-paced industry, how do you stay grounded and focused on your personal and artistic growth?

A. We feel like there is so much work to do and so many amazing songs that we want to share. These help keep us focused. The eye is on a bigger prize, just watch and support us.

 

Q. Ghana’s music scene is really having a moment globally. How do you see yourselves contributing to this international recognition of African music?

A. This is the reason why we are so much concerned with the sound now. We want to bring something extremely distinct to this table. Good enough, She bad, our debut single of the year is there to prove it.

 

Q. What has working with Onnine taught you about the business side of music, and how do you balance that with your artistic vision?

A. We have all been teaching each other a thing or two about the business side of the music. With this particular release being She bad, we made sure that the metadata captured everyone and their involvement in its creation.

 

Q. Has there been a moment in your career so far that really made you feel like you’ve found your sound, or is that still a work in progress?

A. We have the sound but we are also being creative, working and exploring everyday is our goal.

 

Q. What’s been the most rewarding part of being in a duo creatively and personally?

A. We get to create art as real brothers. There is nothing more beautiful than this. It’s rewarding because it has given us the chance to share our stories with others. On our own, we don’t think we would’ve even had that zeal to go about it like this.

 

Q. Looking back at the start of your journey, if you could give yourselves one piece of advice, what would it be?

A. Don’t rush. Take it slow and learn.

 

Q. Finally, what do you want to be remembered for in the music industry? What legacy do you hope to leave behind?

A. Our shows. The experience we want to share is similar to a crusade that leaves an everlasting impact for everyone that gets to see us live. Songs that touch hearts and make you extremely happy.

From The Studio To The Spotlight with StefanTheGoat

Issue 4.0

Apr. 2025

Interview Conducted by: Ayo Fabiyi

Design: Mbuba Chiagozie Tochukwu 

 Q. Let’s start with your name. StefanTheGoat is bold and confident. What is the story behind it and how does it reflect your personality or sound?

Ans: Before the GOAT, it was all baby steps. I started as Stefan Twilyte, making music as part of a group, then transitioned into a solo artist as Stefan. Projects like 14:55 and GHOSTANDGOAT helped shape my journey.

Q. You dropped VENT not too long ago and it felt raw and personal. What headspace were you in when you made that track?

Ans: My sound is distinct—when you hear my voice, you know who's speaking. 

I don’t overthink it. I’ve always been used to putting out bodies of work, just having fun, and saying what’s on my mind. 

Ha! The clue is in the name—VENT.

Q. Looking back at your first ever recording, how would you compare it to your sound now especially songs like Flower and Memories?

Ans: Funny you asked that. My first solo recording, I, was heavily influenced by the artists who first introduced me to the culture. Flowers, memories… I can’t compare. 

Q. Take us into your studio zone. What does a typical Stefan recording session look like? Calm and quiet or full of energy and people?

Ans: Full of energy, not necessarily people.

Q. You have different vibes in your catalog. How do you decide what is going to be the next single and what stays in the vault?

Ans: 9 times out of 10, the music decides. I just look back like, WOW… okay!

Q. Let’s say someone is hearing you for the first time. Between VENT, Memories, and Flower, which track would you tell them to start with and why?

Ans: Damn, you really put me on the spot! 

All classics. But to me, MEMORIES is at an all-time high. It provokes all kinds of emotions.

Q. Outside of music, what is something random or unexpected that actually inspires your songwriting?

Ans: Living life. Sometimes, a conversation can spark an idea.

Q. A lot of people have assumptions about new artists. What is one common misconception people have about you or your music journey?

Ans: I don’t know… let them worry about it.

Q. You have dropped emotional joints and vibe heavy songs. How do you balance being real with chasing what works commercially?

Ans: Implementing my ideas.

Q. If music was not an option, where do you think you would be right now and would you still be creating in some way?

Ans: Somewhere, ...