Behind the Beat: Veecii’s Creative Process as a Producer

By Chinonso Ihekire

In the world of Afrobeats, production is an art form that goes beyond beats and melodies. It is about crafting an atmosphere, telling a story, and evoking emotions. For Victor Ukor with stage name Veecii an acclaimed music producer, songwriter, artist and Talent Manager this process is deeply personal and profoundly innovative. Known for their ability to merge traditional African rhythms with modern production techniques, Veecii has become a sought-after name in the industry. His song Smile featuring Kemuel offers a glimpse into the intricacies of their creative process, revealing a commitment to authenticity, collaboration, and experimentation.

The Craft of Smile

Smile is a track that captures Veecii’s essence as a producer. From the opening notes, the song establishes a warm, uplifting vibe, driven by a syncopated beat and shimmering instrumentation. The production layers a marimba sound with gentle percussive elements, creating a soundscape that feels organic yet polished. Kemuel’s soulful vocals perfectly complement the production, delivering heartfelt lyrics about love and gratitude.

What makes Smile stand out is its simplicity and emotional resonance. While the song is rich in texture, Veecii avoids overproducing, allowing each element to breathe. The interplay between the vocals and instrumentation feels effortless, a testament to Veecii’s ability to balance artistry with technical precision. The result is a song that is as infectious as it is intimate, resonating with audiences on both a sonic and emotional level.

Critics have praised Smile for its universal appeal, describing it as “a song that transcends cultural boundaries.” Veecii’s use of live instrumentation has been particularly highlighted, with many noting how it adds depth and warmth to the track. Kemuel’s vocal delivery has also received acclaim, with reviewers noting how his performance enhances the song’s uplifting message.

Veecii’s Creative Process: A Balance of Structure and Spontaneity

The success of Smile is no accident; it is the product of Veecii’s meticulous yet intuitive creative process. For Veecii, every song begins with a story or an emotion they want to convey. “I start with the feeling,” Veecii shared in an interview. “The beats, the melodies, even the instruments—they’re all tools to express that emotion.”

Collaboration plays a crucial role in Veecii’s process. In the case of Smile, Veecii worked closely with Kemuel, ensuring that the production complemented the artist’s vocal style and lyrical message. This synergy is evident in the song, where every element feels purposeful and cohesive.

Experimentation is another cornerstone of Veecii’s production style. From incorporating unconventional sound effects to blending genres, Veecii consistently pushes the boundaries of Afrobeats. On Smile, this is evident in the subtle use of electronic textures, which add a modern twist to the otherwise acoustic-driven track.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Veecii’s Production

As Veecii continues to evolve, their creative process remains rooted in a commitment to innovation and storytelling. Upcoming projects promise to explore even more diverse influences, with Veecii hinting at collaborations that span multiple genres and continents. Additionally, they are investing in mentoring young producers, sharing their expertise to inspire the next generation of Afrobeats creators.

With songs like Smile, Veecii has proven that great production is about more than technical skill—it’s about heart, vision, and the ability to connect with listeners. By staying true to their creative philosophy, Veecii is not just shaping the sound of Afrobeats but redefining what it means to be a producer in today’s global music landscape.