Port Harcourt-born Afrobeats artist Emmanuel Gbara, better known as Boyerma, is more than just a rising star in Nigeria's music scene. His journey from gospel music to Afrobeats has been one of not just personal transformation but also leadership, as Boyerma seeks to reshape the narrative surrounding the genre with his approach to music.
"My music is about more than just entertainment," Boyerma says. "I want to inspire people through my sound and my story. Every beat, every verse, every hook carries a piece of my journey,my pain, my growth, my hope. I’m not just trying to make people dance; I’m trying to make them feel something real."
His early years in the church choir, under his mother’s direction, may have shaped his initial interest in music, but it was his decision to move away from gospel and explore Afrobeats that revealed his true voice. "I’ve always believed that leadership is about setting an example, and in music, that means being unapologetically yourself," Boyerma shares.
"When I made the switch from gospel to Afrobeats, I faced backlash. Friends left, my church community turned their backs on me. But I wasn’t making music for them, I was doing it for me, for my soul. Afrobeats gave me the freedom to explore who I really am," he explains. "It’s not just about catching a vibe, it’s about telling my truth. That’s the kind of leadership I want to bring to the music industry."
"I never freestyle," Boyerma admits. "When I step into the studio, I let the melody guide me first. Then, I sit with it, listen to what it’s telling me, and turn that emotion into lyrics. It’s not just about making a song, it’s about telling a story that comes from within."
His approach to music has not only earned Boyerma respect among his peers but has also positioned him within the Afrobeats genre. His hit single Anthem is a perfect example of this. The song, which resonated deeply with the streets, combined infectious rhythms with a powerful message that spoke to Boyerma’s roots and his vision for the future. "I wanted Anthem to be more than just a banger," Boyerma says. "I wanted it to speak to where I come from and where I’m going. It’s about resilience, pushing forward even when the odds are against you."
Impressed by Boyerma’s unique style and raw talent, Andachi Entertainment saw the potential to develop him into a major artist within the Afrobeats genre. In 2022, Boyerma officially signed with the label, marking a pivotal moment in his career. With Andachi Entertainment's backing, he not only gained access to top-tier production and industry connections but also found the creative support needed to refine his sound. Their collaboration resulted in the successful release of Boyerma's debut EP in 2022, further establishing him as a force to be reckoned with. This partnership laid the foundation for Boyerma’s continued growth and evolution as an artist, as he and the label worked towards shaping the future of his music career.
Boyerma’s ability to connect personal experiences with broader societal themes has become one of his defining strengths. He draws inspiration from artists like Olamide, whom he admires for their ability to balance individuality with mass appeal. "Olamide is a real godfather in this industry," Boyerma says. "He’s always stayed true to his roots, but he’s also been able to elevate Afrobeats to a global platform. That’s the kind of legacy I want to build, not just a career, but a movement."
As Boyerma continues to work on new music, including a forthcoming video project and single release, he remains focused on one thing: staying true to his vision and leading by example. "Mistakes, setbacks, and breakthroughs. It’s all part of the journey. And as long as I stay true to myself, I know I’ll get to where I’m meant to be."