Olistar, Moniker of Olisa Franklin Emodi, is a drill-infused and infectious artist from Onitsha, Anambra State. It’s no wonder why he’s offering a drill sound like no other. Growing up watching his mother’s band perform, and being raised on a healthy diet of Biggie Smalls, Bob Marley and Fela, all these identities have combined and melted into to each other to form his unique sound.
His latest track ‘The Story,’ showcases his unique sound in abundance. Hard-hitting drums make up the foundation of the track and act as a ball of energy that is infectious. This energy is reverberated throughout the single and found in the other instrumentation. Synths work hand in glove with his direct rap style – raw, laced with emotion and a whole heap of passion.
Speaking further about this he says: “So many youths lost their lives during the Bakassi days in Onitsha and i know that so many youths all over the world are looking for a sign and direction of some sort and I hope to be that voice of reasoning that keeps them motivated and uplifted to chase their dreams and ambitions in life.”
Using his son as an inspiration, Olistar thought about the world through a younger person’s eyes. “You can be from wherever and if you’re not happy with your environment keep your head up and don’t give up on your dreams, they are very much valid and attainable.”
In 2022, he visited the UK to get first hand knowledge of the culture of Drill music. Upon his return, he released the EP “The Return of Olistar” which gave him a boosted audience which is steadily growing. With his new single ‘The Story,’ we can see this being taken even further and gaining even more of a fanbase.
