Faze

Faze, born Chibuzor Oji in 1977, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actor. He is a prominent figure in the Nigerian music industry, best known for his successful solo career and his foundational role as a member of the influential music group Plantashun Boiz. Early Life and Education Chibuzor Oji was born and raised in Festac Town, Lagos State, Nigeria. He is the fourth of nine children in a family noted for its strong vocal abilities, which were reportedly honed through long periods of singing during family prayers. Before achieving fame, Oji initially performed as a rap musician under the stage name Lyrical Orge. Career Progression Faze's career breakthrough came in the late 1990s when he co-founded the legendary R\&B/Hip-Hop group Plantashun Boiz alongside 2Baba (formerly 2Face Idibia) and Blackface. The trio quickly became one of Nigeria's most recognized musical acts, releasing hit albums and pioneering the fusion of R\&B, ragga, and highlife. The group disbanded around 2004, leading to the members launching successful solo careers. In the final quarter of 2004, Faze released his debut solo album, *Faze Alone*. The album was critically and commercially successful, instantly establishing him as a formidable solo artist. It produced several major hits, including the title track "Faze Alone," "Angel Gabriella," "Miss U," and "Na True," all of which topped various music charts in Nigeria. Following this success, he continued to release successful albums like *Independent* (2006) and *Originality* (2008), further solidifying his status in the Afrobeats and contemporary Nigerian music scene. His work is often characterized by his distinctive vocal range and emotional depth. Major Achievements and Notable Works Faze is celebrated for his sustained success both as a group member and a solo artist. His album *Independent* won multiple awards, and the title track of his third album, "Originality," became an anthem recognized for its high production value and thematic content. Faze has consistently been recognized for his contributions to the Nigerian music landscape, often cited for blending pop, R\&B, and soul into the burgeoning Afrobeats genre. Current Status Faze remains an active figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry, continuing to perform and release music. He is often recognized for his efforts to occasionally reunite with the former members of Plantashun Boiz for collaborative projects and performances, cementing his legacy as one of the pioneers of modern Nigerian pop music.