December 16, 2022 |
“How to Kill a Man”… it’s a divisive phrase, a nullifier without remedy… and it’s the name of Bloody Civilian’s debut single. The Abuja, Nigeria-born and raised singer and producer created the track to make a statement about feminine power. Her satirical take on the subject is fierce and the accompanying music video, released just a week ago, moves beautifully between Bloody’s buttermilk vocals and punchy lyrics to something more tongue-in-cheek. Filled with violent, combative scenes as she moves through adversity with a cavalcade of women from all walks of life coming together at her side, it’s a dramatic and confessional exercise in venting rage, directed and shot in Lagos by Bloody herself.
Before “How To Kill A Man”, Bloody Civilian discovered that she would soundtrack one of the year’s most anticipated movies, the Marvel blockbuster Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. The anthem-like track, dubbed “Wake Up”, features teenage Nigerian runaway-turned-internationally renowned rapper, Rema. And with the increasing popularity of Alté and Afrobeats, especially here in the UK, she might just be the artist to watch for 2023. Having built up a grassroots fanbase at just 25-years-old, here, the Nigerian musician talks growing up in Abuja, Nigeria, Black Panther and the importance of female power.
1. Hey Bloody Civilian! Can you explain where the stage name came from?
“My name is inspired by growing up in the north of Nigeria where there’s a lot of military violence. “Bloody Civilian” is a term used for civilians, but I decided to own it for myself.”
2. How would you describe life growing up in Abuja, Nigeria?
“Abuja is a small town with a small community. With that sense of community we had, I felt very loved – for the most part.”
3. When was the last time you watched a movie that made you cry?
“The Fault In Our Stars, because I could relate to losing a loved one who was sick.”
4. Your single, “Wake Up”, was featured on the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack and featured Rema. Can you tell us about what inspired the track?
“The track was inspired by the need to wake up in the morning and hit the ground running – just to generally hustle.”
5. Your sound is a melting pot of Afrobeats, R&B and hip hop. What were some of your favourite artists and genres growing up?
“R&B, hip hop and lots of African music. I really like Asa so I was super inspired by her and her music as well.”
6. What’s the best piece of advice or feedback you’ve ever received?
“To go where you’re welcome – that was from my mum. It’s important not to try to be in the cool crowd, just go where you’re welcome and thrive. I don’t even remember the context in which she told me this, but I’ve held it on top of my head ever since. She probably doesn’t even remember she said this.”
7. Your music aims to spread a message of female empowerment in a traditionally patriarchal community. Why is it so important for you to convey this in your tracks?
“It’s important to me because I’m a woman and, like you said, in the patriarchal society where I’m from, there’s a clear need for women to be given more opportunities so they can thrive and grow. It’s important for me to facilitate that in the ways I can.”
8. What woman in your life is your role model?
“Although I’m inspired by many women, the woman I’m most inspired by is my mum.”
9. Name three mega-celebs you’d have over for dinner (dead or alive), and what would you cook?
“Lauryn Hill, I’d cook jollof rice and chicken for her because she will deffs’ eat that. I’d also invite Michael Jackson and then Missy Elliott over as well. They’re all getting jollof rice and chicken because I don’t waste food.”
10. What do you have in store for us next year?
“Next year, I hope to be able to put out an EP, perform and tour the world – and also meet people. I also really want to explore myself more and diversify my creativity.”
Photography courtesy of Bloody Civilian. Stream “How To Kill A Man” on all major platforms now.
