Nigerian-born Zaph Builds Global Momentum Following Eko Heritage Awards Recognition

By Mikel King

Nigerian-born artiste and songwriter Joseph Megai, professionally known as Zaph, is steadily carving a space for himself within the evolving global music landscape, following his recognition as Diaspora Performer of the Year at the Eko Heritage Awards held at the Lagos Oriental Hotel on July 27, 2025.

The award marks a defining moment in the artist’s journey, reflecting both his growing international presence and his commitment to crafting music that bridges cultural and geographic boundaries.

Born in Delta State, Nigeria, and raised primarily in Ibadan, Zaph’s artistic journey was shaped early by a musically rich environment. Influenced by gospel records, vintage sounds, and the everyday rhythm of Nigerian life, he developed a deep connection to music from a young age. His creative instincts became more pronounced during his secondary school years, where regular talent showcases provided a platform to explore songwriting, poetry, and live performance.

Over time, those early expressions evolved into a distinct artistic identity—one that blends Afro-influenced rhythms, contemporary production, and culturally rooted storytelling.

A major turning point came in November 2021 with the release of his debut EP Parousia. The five-track project introduced listeners to his sound through records such as “Gbona,” “Balikita,” “Itumo,” “Enough of You,” and “Abere.” Rooted in themes of love, identity, and introspection, the project combined indigenous Yoruba expression with modern sonic elements, earning attention across Ibadan and Western Nigeria.

Tracks like “Gbona” and “Balikita” quickly gained traction, receiving radio airplay and sparking wider engagement within the regional music scene. The project also featured collaborations with notable producers including Niphkeys, Echotheguru, IBKSleek, Tuzi Beats, and others, further strengthening his creative network within the Nigerian music industry.

Since then, Zaph has continued to build on that momentum through live performances and festival appearances across Nigeria and the United Kingdom. His stage experience spans events such as the Ibadan Music Festival, Choc Party 2021, BPM07 at The Albany in London, and the Frolick Summer Festival in the UK, alongside various cultural showcases.

Now based in the United Kingdom, Zaph’s career has taken on an increasingly international dimension. His growing audience across streaming platforms reflects a widening listenership beyond Nigeria, particularly within the UK, where he continues to perform, collaborate, and refine his sound.

Beyond recorded music, his creative expression extends into community-driven experiences. In June 2024, he organized and hosted a “Paint & Sip with Zaph Music” event at Boscombe Chine Gardens, bringing together music, art, and social interaction in a setting that emphasized creativity and shared experience. The event underscored his belief that music is not only a form of expression but also a medium for connection.

Academically, Zaph holds an MSc in Marketing Management (Digital) from Bournemouth University and a BSc in International Relations from Oduduwa University—a background that complements his artistic pursuits with a strategic understanding of global audiences and digital engagement.

As an artist, songwriter, performer, and co-producer, Zaph represents a new wave of Nigerian creatives whose work reflects both local heritage and global influence. His music continues to draw from African storytelling traditions while embracing contemporary sound design, positioning him within a generation of artists redefining the boundaries of Afro-influenced music.

With industry recognition now added to his growing portfolio, Zaph’s trajectory suggests an artist not only in motion but one steadily shaping a career that connects cultures, audiences, and creative disciplines across borders.