Early life and background:
I was born and raised in the vibrant town of Ogoja and moved to Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. I emerged from a childhood marked by struggle, bad influences, and family turbulence. But where pain grew, passion grew louder. Music became my escape, my fight, and my light.
At just 13, while most were sleeping, I was sneaking out at night to hit the studio, recording tracks in secret because my parents didn’t support my dream. Fueled by the raw emotion of 2Pac, the boldness of Eminem, the soul of Wizkid, and the fire of Burna Boy and Rema, I carved my voice into the sound of Afrobeat fused with emotion, often sad, always real.
My name, Shadow Rex, reflects my unshakable belief in myself: even in the shadows, I reign. “Rex” means king, and I wear that crown with quiet confidence—using my voice not to boast but to heal. My breakout moment came with my first studio session in 2015, where nerves shook me, but passion carried me through. The crowd saw it, and so did the world when my first viral track, “Linda,” took off.
Today, Shadow Rex is more than an artist—he’s a healer. Every lyric is a remedy, every beat a heartbeat. My mission is clear: to turn heartbreak into hope and transform silence into strength. Because from the shadows, kings rise.
My full name and my stage name:
My full name is IDAJOR MICHEAL IDAJOR with the Stage name: SHADOW REX
I was born and raised in the town of Ogoja, Bekwarra Local Government Area.
I was born on 3 September 2001
How did your upbringing influence my music passion?
My upbringing, though marked by struggle and hardship, was the fire that lit my passion for music. Growing up in OGOJA, Cross River State, Nigeria, surrounded by family issues and negative influences, music became my escape and my therapy. While the world around me was chaotic, I found clarity in rhythm and lyrics.
What are the key moments or experiences that led you to pursue music seriously?
One key moment was my first studio session at age 13. I was nervous, shaking, and unsure—but the moment I stepped into the booth, something clicked. Despite the fear, I delivered. That experience gave me a glimpse of who I could become and ignited a hunger to keep going.
Another defining experience was when I won my first music audition award. Performing in front of a large crowd for the first time, I felt the rush of connecting with people through my music. That recognition, despite the odds stacked against me, proved I had something real.
And when my first viral song “Linda” gained attention, it was the confirmation I needed that my voice could move people, heal them, and inspire them. These moments—mixed with personal pain and passion—cemented my purpose as an artist.
Music, career, and growth
When did you officially start your music career?
I officially began my music career in 2015, the year I recorded my first studio track and performed in my first music audition. Though I had been writing and experimenting with music even earlier, 2015 marked the turning point where I faced a crowd, pushed through my fear, and found my confidence as an artist. That year was the true beginning of my journey from passion to profession.
What genres best describe your sound?
My sound is best described as a fusion of Afrobeats, Soul, and Emo-Afrofusion. My music blends the rhythmic energy and cultural depth of Afrobeats with the emotional storytelling and vulnerability of soul and R&B.
Who is your biggest musical influence?
My biggest music influences span across both African and international legends, each shaping their sound, mindset, and message in powerful ways:
•Wizkid – For his smooth Afrobeat flow and global success, showing what’s possible from Nigeria.
•2Baba (2Face Idibia) – For his timeless soul and emotional storytelling.
•Burna Boy – For his fusion of Afrobeat with raw emotion and bold energy.
•Rema – For his creativity, versatility, and ability to bend genres.
•Rihanna – For her emotional honesty, resilience, and global appeal.
•Justin Bieber – For his evolution and emotional expression through pop and R&B.
•2Pac – For his poetic truth, depth, and fearless voice for the unheard.
•Jay-Z – For his business acumen, confidence, and lyrical power.
•Eminem – For his intensity, pain-driven lyrics, and technical mastery.
How could you describe your artistic style and creative process?
Artistic Style:
My style is a soulful blend of Afrobeat and emotional storytelling. I call it healing music—because it’s not just about sound, it’s about feeling. Whether it’s heartbreak, struggle, or hope, I put my truth into every lyric. My voice carries pain, but also strength. I want people to listen and feel like someone understands them. I don’t just sing—I connect.
Creative Process:
My creative process is deeply personal. It starts with emotion—what I’m feeling or what someone around me is going through. I might start humming a melody when I’m walking alone or late at night when the world is quiet. Sometimes, it’s a beat that speaks first. Other times, it’s the words that come out like a confession. I don’t force it—I let the story write itself. I write, record, rewrite, and let my soul guide me. It’s never just music. It’s healing, from me to the world.
What challenges have you faced in your journey as an artist, and how have you overcome them?
Challenges:
My journey as an artist has been anything but easy. I faced a lack of support from my family, especially in the early days. They didn’t believe music could be a real path for me. I had to sneak out at night just to record songs. Financial struggles made studio time hard to afford. I also dealt with self-doubt, rejection, and pressure from people who didn’t understand my vision.
Overcoming Them:
But I never gave up. I kept pushing—because music wasn’t just something I wanted to do; it was something I had to do. I stayed consistent, I believed in myself even when nobody else did. I let the pain and challenges fuel my lyrics. Winning my first audition, recording my first song, and seeing “Linda” go viral showed me that faith, hard work, and patience will always pay off. Every challenge became a part of my story, and made me stronger, both as a man and as an artist.
Depressed concept and creation.
What inspired the depressed single: Inspiration Behind “Depressed”?
“Depressed” was born from a real place of emotional darkness. It was inspired by moments when I felt completely alone, unheard, and mentally exhausted—when the world felt too heavy and the pain too deep to carry. I wrote this song not just for myself, but for everyone silently battling depression, heartbreak, or inner struggles that no one sees.
The song is my truth, my release, and my message to anyone feeling stuck in the shadows: you are not alone. Music helped me survive, and “Depressed” is my way of helping others do the same. It’s not just a song—it’s a cry, a comfort, and a reminder that healing is possible.
How could you describe the theme and message behind the project?
The core theme of this project is emotional healing through truth. It’s about shining light on the silent battles we all face—depression, heartbreak, loneliness, rejection—and turning pain into power. I want people to know that it’s okay to feel broken, but it’s not the end of their story.
Every track is a piece of my soul, crafted to connect, comfort, and uplift. My message is simple: You are not alone. You are stronger than your struggle. And through the pain, there is purpose. This project is for the unheard, the unseen, and the ones still fighting.
Were there any notable collaborations or producers involved in this project?
This project is deeply personal, so I worked closely with a talented underground producer, Emmanuel Ohiani Abeka, professionally known as Emrun, who understood my sound and vision. While there weren’t big-name features on this project, the energy and authenticity behind the beat and mix speak volumes. I chose to keep it raw and real—just me and my truth.
That said, this is only the beginning. I’m already cooking up future collaborations with both rising and established artists who share my mission of creating music that heals and inspires.
What was the creative and recording process like?
The process behind this project was emotional, raw, and deeply personal. The song started with a feeling—pain, sadness, hope. I’d sit alone, sometimes late at night, and I just let my thoughts pour into melodies and lyrics. Some lyrics came from real tears, others from memories I couldn’t forget. I didn’t rush anything—I let each track grow naturally.
In the studio, it wasn’t always easy. There were moments I broke down mid-recording, had to breathe, gather myself, and go again. But that’s what made it real. I worked with a producer who gave me space to be vulnerable, to try new sounds, and to trust my instincts. Every recording session felt like therapy. No filters, no ego—just truth.
How do you hope listeners will connect with this project?
I want listeners to feel like this project is speaking directly to them. Whether they’re battling depression, heartbreak, loneliness, or just trying to find their way, I hope my words make them feel seen and understood. I want them to know they’re not alone—and that there’s power in their pain.
If someone listens to my music and feels even a little bit lighter, a little more hopeful, or just less alone, then I’ve done my job. This project is more than sound—it’s healing. And I hope people carry that healing with them long after the music stops.
Career highlights and achievements
What major milestone have you reached in your music career so far?
One of the biggest milestones in my journey was recording my first-ever track at age 13, despite having no support and sneaking out just to follow my passion. In 2015, I faced my fears and performed in front of a huge crowd during my first music audition, where I won my first award. That moment gave me the confidence to keep going.
Another big moment was the release of my first viral song, “Linda,” which connected with people and made me realize the healing power of my music. That song opened doors, grew my fanbase, and proved that my voice had a place in this industry.
These milestones aren’t just wins—they’re reminders that everything I’m building comes from faith, pain, and purpose.
Have you received any notable recognition awards or media features?
Yes, one of my earliest and most meaningful recognitions came when I won my first music audition award in 2015. And in 2017. It was my first time performing in front of a large crowd, and despite being nervous, that moment proved I had something special. That win gave me the confidence to take my music seriously.
While I’m still building and growing, the love from my fans and the growing attention on songs like “Linda” have brought in local buzz and street-level recognition, especially within the Calabar music scene. Each repost, shout-out, and stream is a reminder that the message is reaching people, and that’s the greatest reward so far.
What has been the most memorable moment in your career?
The most unforgettable moment in my career was stepping into the studio for the first time in 2015. I was nervous, shaking, unsure, filled with fear—but also excited. That moment felt like a dream and a battle at the same time. I nearly lost my composure, but when I finally recorded my first track, something changed in me. I knew this was my calling.
Hearing my voice play back through the speakers for the first time, it hit differently. It was no longer just a dream in my head. It was real. That moment marked the beginning of everything.
Plans and aspirations.
What are your goals for the near future?
My goal is to take my sound to the next level—to reach more hearts, more countries, and more people who need healing through music. I want to release a powerful body of work that truly defines my story and shows the world who Shadow Rex is.
I’m working toward collaborating with major artists and producers, performing on bigger stages, and getting my music on international platforms. But more than anything, I want to stay real, stay grounded, and keep making music that speaks to people’s souls.
This is just the beginning—and I’m coming for the world with truth, energy, and purpose.
Are there any upcoming project collaborations and performance events fans should look out for?
Yes—there’s a lot in the works! I’m currently working on a new project that dives even deeper into my story, pain, and healing journey. It’s going to feature a few surprise collaborations with rising artists who share my energy and message—stay tuned, because the vibe is on another level.
I also have live performances and appearances coming up that I can’t wait to announce. Whether it’s intimate shows or bigger stages, I’m ready to connect with fans face-to-face and bring that raw Shadow Rex energy to life.
Big things are coming—and this time, we’re not moving in the shadows anymore.
Where do you see your music area in the next five years?
In the next five years, I see my music touching lives all over the world—breaking through borders, streaming on global charts, and being recognized not just for sound, but for the soul it carries. I see myself performing on international stages, collaborating with some of the biggest names in the industry, and building a brand that represents healing, truth, and power.
I also see myself helping other young artists rise, creating a platform that gives voice to the unheard, just like I once was. Shadow Rex won’t just be a name—it’ll be a movement, a source of light for those stuck in the dark.
Personal and public
Outside of music, what are your interests and hobbies?
Outside of music, I’m a deep thinker. I love spending time alone reflecting, writing, and observing life—it helps me stay connected to my truth. I enjoy reading, especially anything that helps me grow mentally and spiritually. I’m also into fashion because I believe that how you express yourself visually is part of your art.
I like being around positive energy, having real conversations, and sometimes just sitting in nature or watching people live their lives. It all inspires me. Life itself is my biggest hobby—I study it, feel it, and turn it into sound.
How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist?
I stay inspired by the people around me, the ones who still struggle, fight, and dream despite the odds. Life itself keeps me motivated—there’s always something to write about, whether it’s love, pain, or personal growth. Music is therapy for me, so I’m constantly looking for ways to connect deeper with my emotions and my fans.
My inspiration also comes from the artists who paved the way, like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and 2Pac. Their stories remind me that anything is possible if you stay true to yourself.
I stay motivated by remembering why I started: to heal, inspire, and make music that lasts. Even on tough days, I remind myself that this journey is bigger than me—it’s for everyone who believes in the power of music to change lives.
What message do you want to leave with your fans and listeners?
To everyone listening and following, I want you to know that you are not alone. No matter what you’re going through—whether it's pain, heartbreak, or struggle—music has the power to heal, and so does your strength. Never let anyone dim your light. Keep pushing forward, keep believing in yourself, and remember that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope.
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