Balancing Beats and Books: How Damian Nedu Pursues Stardom and Academics

By Oluwayinka Odulaja, Olaide Olowo, and Folasayo Oyawale

The University of Lagos is a melting pot of extraordinary talent. Its students excel academically and make big waves in their chosen industries. It is fascinating to see these students diligently excel in their careers and academics. Damian Nedu is among these rising stars.

Nedu, a young and creative arts graduate from the University of Lagos, is making waves in the music industry. His song “Anything” is currently blowing up on TikTok, with over 6,000 posts from listeners. Damian has been making a remarkable mark in the music industry even before the release of his EP, To Those I’ve Loved & Love, on April 30, 2024.

This multi-talented artist juggled the rigours of university life with an ever-growing music career. He attended lectures, submitted assignments, and participated in campus activities while penning songs, recording tracks, and performing on various stages. It is noteworthy to mention that his interest in music never deterred him from excelling academically, as he graduated with a 4.2 CGPA.

Upon discovering his singing talent in 2016, Nedu started trying out covers to find music that suited his voice. His passion for singing led him to join his church choir in 2017. 

“I joined the choir to learn how to harmonise and sing with a team because there are many things that come with music, even knowing how to sing when someone is playing the piano for you,” he said.

Nedu explained that his admission to study theatre arts heightened his passion for music. During the lockdown in 2020, he released a phone-recorded album on Audio Mack, which gained some attention. 

“I didn’t know what it meant to go to a studio to record a song. I usually get an instrument from YouTube and record the song on my phone. Then, I push them on my status. However, during the lockdown, I released a phone-recorded album on Audiomack in 2020. The album gained traction and created much buzz.”

In 2021, he decided to make things proper and professional by working with producers and lawyers to release his first official song.

“I had to remove all the songs from the phone-recorded album because I didn’t have a copyright license for the instrumental used. Afterwards, I started doing it professionally, working with producers and lawyers.”

When asked what inspired him to not feel limited by the four walls of the school, he responded, 

“I am very hungry for the things I want. When I want something, I go out of my way to get it, which includes introducing myself to people and urging them to check out my music on my social media platforms.” 

He advised students not to wait until graduation to pursue their dreams. 

“Students should build their portfolios, invest in skills development, and not depend on their certificates alone. You must believe that things will always work out for you. You are your only limit; once you overcome yourself, you can do anything. Lastly, stop doubting yourself even when you are not qualified.”