“I Almost Gave Up On Music” — Lojay Opens Up On His Toughest Moments

Nigerian singer and songwriter, Lekan Osifeso, better known by his stage name Lojay, has opened up about the challenges he faced at the beginning of his music career and the moments when he almost gave up.

According to Ireporter Online, the Monalisa crooner revealed in a recent interview that there were times he doubted whether anyone would ever listen to his songs. He described those uncertain years as a period that refined his character and taught him endurance and appreciation.

“I’ve had moments where I almost quit music,” Lojay confessed. “There were nights I wondered if anyone would ever hear my songs. But those silent years shaped me; they taught me patience, resilience, and gratitude for every single listener today.”

Addressing how he copes with the pressures that accompany fame, the singer explained that he often takes deliberate breaks from the limelight to find balance and reconnect with his core values. “Family, faith, and silence,” he said. “Sometimes I just disappear for a while—no music, no social media—just time to breathe and reconnect with God and my people. That’s how I remember who I am outside the noise.”

Reflecting on his hit song Monalisa and its globally acclaimed remix featuring American superstar Chris Brown, Lojay said the experience was proof that music transcends boundaries. He commended Brown for his humility and deep understanding of the record, noting that authenticity in music resonates far beyond attempts to sound international.

On why it took him a while to release his debut album XOXO, the artist explained that he wanted to ensure the project reflected genuine emotions and personal growth. “I didn’t want to drop an album just to say I did,” he said. “I wanted to live first—to experience enough emotions that could fill an album with truth. Every song on XOXO came from a real place, and I needed time to find that honesty.”

Through his story, Lojay offered an inspiring reminder that perseverance and self-awareness remain key ingredients to artistic success.