In today’s digital age where finding genuine connections online can be a rare gem, a rising music artiste Emmanuel Oyeyemi Afulehin, known as Nelz on stage, shares his journey to finding true connections with his fans. As an artist who has been in the music industry since 2013, Nelz sure knows how difficult it is for an up-and-coming artist to build a network of fans who genuinely love you beyond the stage and also support potential.
After so many years of trying to get it right, Nelz discovered that social media platforms are a gateway to connect with like-minded individuals; For him, they were platforms that offered a sense of belonging he couldn’t find elsewhere. Nelz described his fanbase as “real people who feel we have something in common or that I have stuff to offer” As an artist with no connections to godfathers in the music industry, this realization was a goldmine.
Rather than chasing clouts or pretending to be someone he is not, Nelz believes that authenticity is key to building meaningful online relationships. He emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and expressing vulnerability in music to connect with fans on a deeper level. This belief could be traced back to a live music showcase where he performed a personal piece and was able to stir a warm atmosphere among the audience
“That moment where I saw people in tears showed I must be doing something right – to connect with my audience on an emotional level,” He says
Now, Nelz remains committed to engaging with his fans and showcasing his uniqueness as a music artist. “Everyone in the arts brings a unique touch to their work,” he says.” For me, it’s the way my true self shines through”.
Nelz reveals that his biggest achievement as an artist is social media growth which is a testament to his decision to engage directly with others who shared his passions and interests. He explains that sharing behind-the-scenes moments on social media helped him connect with his audience on a deeper level which has helped him break down major geographical and cultural barriers.
Through his online presence, Nelz has not only found a sense of belonging and connection within his community of fans but now also advocates for other artists to leverage online communities as powerful tools for growth and connection. In a world dominated by trends and superficiality, Nelz’s commitment to authenticity serves as a refreshing reminder of the genuineness of human connection.
