Afrobeats Has a Greater Future – Zeeno Foster

Renowned audio engineer Zeeno Foster, a pivotal figure behind Nigeria’s burgeoning music scene, has expressed unwavering optimism about the future of Afrobeats, emphasizing that the genre’s global ascent is only just beginning. With a career spanning over two decades, Zeeno’s mastery at the mixing console has played a crucial role in shaping the sounds of Africa’s biggest stars, transforming local rhythms into international hits.

Having worked closely with icons such as Wizkid, Davido, P-Square, Kizz Daniel, Femi Kuti and a host of others, Zeeno Foster has witnessed firsthand the genre’s evolution from local dance floors to worldwide stages. His technical innovations, coupled with his keen ear for musical flavor, have helped propel Nigerian music onto the global map. “Afrobeats has a greater future,” Zeeno affirms passionately. “The genre is evolving continuously, and with the talent coming through, I believe we are just at the beginning of a new era.”

Reflecting on his collaborations with top artistes, Zeeno Foster shared insights into their creative processes. He described working with Davido as “nothing short of inspiring,” praising the singer’s unique vocal textures and spontaneous adlib skills. “Davido’s ability to breathe life into every song with his creative adlibs is phenomenal,” Zeeno Foster notes. “He’s an underrated artist whose artistry elevates every track he’s on.”

Similarly, Zeeno Foster highlighted Wizkid’s freestyle approach as a testament to his genius. “Wizkid connects effortlessly with the vibe,” he explains. “His improvisational skills and ability to deliver authentic, captivating recordings make every project special.” These spontaneous bursts of creativity, Zeeno Foster believes are key drivers of the genre’s freshness and relevance.

One of Zeeno Foster’s most memorable experiences was working with Afrobeat pioneer Femi Kuti. “Collaborating with Femi Kuti was an eye-opener,” he recalls. “It was a moment that truly brought the world’s attention to African sounds and musical depth.” This collaboration not only reinforced Zeeno Foster’s understanding of Africa’s rich musical heritage but also underscored the genre’s innovative potential.

Born, Ewomazeeno Ajos Foster but popularly called Zeeno Foster began in Lagos, born on April 8, 1971. His passion for music and technology led him to study at Anajat International Computer Institute, where he gained vital hands-on experience. By the mid-1990s, he was experimenting with blending African rhythms with modern sound engineering, setting the stage for his future success. His dedication earned him the 2015 Beatz Award for Nigeria’s Best Mixing and Mastering Engineer, cementing his reputation in the industry.

Beyond technical mastery, Zeeno is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of African sound engineers. Through workshops and collaborations with organizations like SABC, he aims to ensure the industry’s continuous growth and global relevance.

Looking ahead, Zeeno Foster remains confident that Afrobeats will continue to dominate international charts, driven by talented artists and innovative producers. “The success of P-Square, Davido, Wizkid, and others proves that African music is not just a passing trend,” he asserts. “It’s a powerful cultural force with a limitless future.”

As Nigeria’s legendary engineer continues to influence the genre’s sound, his story serves as a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and innovation in elevating African music worldwide. Zeeno Foster’s work underscores that behind every great artist is a talented engineer whose craft shapes the future of music across borders.