A New Generation of Artists Breaking New Grounds: BSCARZ in African Swagga
Bscarz was born Benjamin Dada on July 6, 1985, in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. He migrated to the United States at the age of eight and resided in a small urban community known as Roxbury, Massachusetts. The huge change in environment created social barriers for Bscarz and he found it difficult to balance the “American way of life” while keeping his strong Nigerian roots.
This turmoil created struggles throughout his adolescent years. The unique name “Bscarz” derived from his prominent facial scars that so many people recognize him for and from the first letter of his birth name. The name Bscarz is also a metaphor for his pain and hardship that once left him scarred. He is keen to mention that everything he listens to and every life experience has directed his musical development in some way.
At the age of seventeen Bscarz moved to New Jersey in hopes of escaping his struggles with living in the unsafe environment of Roxbury. During this time, he began to write and utilize music as an outlet to escape the harsh reality of leaving behind his loved ones. Bscarz used his negative experiences to create a positive feeling. He found his happiness when creating music and performing on stage.
After various performances, he was quickly noticed for his distinctive style of African, Hip Hop, and Pop twist to his music. Six years later, he challenged himself to write and perform a renowned hit song “I want Shele”, which was his first African-International hit song with over 30,000 views on YouTube. This song became a hit in the local neighborhood which gave him loving fans.
Bscarz has showcased his musical talent in many ways including the release of his first Afro-Hip-Hop Mix-Tape, “SWAGGA DE PARTY” which sold over 1,000 copies with hits like “JOLLY DEY GO” and “EYES DIRTY”. Since then, Bscarz has showcased his talent at various venues across the east coast, playing at numerous gigs, and making sure that his name and music is heard by all music lovers.
After the success of his single I Want Shele in 2009 Bscarz took a few years off to reinvent himself with a new genre. This new approach gained the attention of a prestigious global record company, TAJ World Entertainment. Bscarz is currently signed with TAJ World Entertainment and in March 2012 he released a single “African Swagga”. The hit single has 75,000 views on True Africa YouTube channel and is making waves in the US, Europe and Africa.
Bscarz continues to show his dedication to music through his upcoming projects.
Finally, after honing his unique sound and style over recent years, he is now preparing his debut album, which depicts his musical growth and demeanor. This approaching album is expected to be a huge success.
With his unique sound and swagger … it is evident that Bscarz will continue to gain interest from people across the world.
In his own words:
Where did you grow up?
I am originally from Nigeria, grew up in Boston and moved to New Jersey when I was 17.
When did you discover your passion for music?
From childhood I have always had a passion for music. At the age of 10, I started singing. I grew up listening to Boys II MEN, Fela and a host of other local African artists.
What type of artist are you?
I consider my music to be international. Music is a universal language and my songs relate to that. I think Akon has really influenced my career. Also P Diddy when we met in JFK a few years back, told me “Always keep it real to yourself; never back down in this industry.”
How have you nurtured your talent & kept your dreams alive?
By constantly improving on my weaknesses and collaborating with other artists.
Do you play any instruments?
Yes the drum. Just started piano lessons in Manhattan. When I was younger I played the flute.
What’s a typical working day like for you?
A typical working day starts with a prayer every morning.
Music Video
BSCARZ is on Facebook
Photos by: Samuel Joseph
(First published DUNIA print Magazine: issue 8 – July to October 2012)
