Tobi Tokz: Turning a new leaf from afrobeat to gospel

Tobi Tokz, whose real name is Michael Oluwatobi Bhadmus, is making a big change in his music career. Known for his Afrobeat hits, Tokz is now shifting his focus to gospel music. In an exclusive interview with Vanguard, Tokz talks about his past successes, why he took a break, and what’s next for him in gospel music.
Tobi Tokz achieved a lot with his Afrobeat music. One of his standout moments was performing at the African Food Network Festival in Abuja. “It was amazing,” Tokz says. “The crowd was energetic, and I loved seeing different artists perform.” Despite these highlights, Tokz now feels differently about his past music. “I enjoyed it at the time, but I believe it wasn’t what God wanted for me,” he reflects. “If I could change anything, I would have listened more to what God was trying to tell me.”
Last year, Tokz took a break from the music scene after his brother passed away. This loss deeply affected him. “Taking time off allowed me to get closer to God and really hear His voice,” Tokz explains. “On a professional level, I missed out on some collaborations that were planned, but the break was important for my personal growth.”
Tokz’s return to music is marked by a shift to gospel. The loss of his brother and his own spiritual awakening played a big role in this change. “I grew up in a Christian home and was involved in the church choir,” Tokz says. “Even though I had success in Afrobeat, I always felt a pull towards gospel music.” He admits that he didn’t always follow this inner call. “Romans 12:2 talks about not following the ways of the world but letting God change us. I realize now that I didn’t listen to that message and focused instead on love and relationships in my music.”
For Tokz, gospel music feels different from Afrobeat. “When I write gospel songs, I’m focused on spiritual growth and connecting with God,” he says. “I get my inspiration from the Holy Spirit, my dreams, and the Bible.” This is a big change from how he used to create Afrobeat music, which was more influenced by his surroundings.
As he moves into gospel music, Tokz has big plans. “I want my music to share God’s message and make a positive impact on people’s lives,” he says. Although he doesn’t have specific collaborations or projects lined up, he’s open to working with others who share his faith. Tokz is committed to staying in gospel music for the long haul. “I want my songs to teach, encourage, and inspire,” he explains. “I’m focused on spreading the gospel and helping people understand right from wrong.”
To other artists going through similar changes, Tokz has some advice. “Pray to make sure you’re following God’s plan for your life,” he suggests. “God brings peace and clarity, and that’s what you need to find your true path.”
As Tobi Tokz starts this new chapter, he wants people to know he is dedicated to praising and worshiping God through his music. “I’m here to share my faith and use my music to make a difference,” he says. “I’m reborn to praise and worship God.”