The music industry is vast and packed with unanticipated marvels that come in the form of gifted individuals who have yet to taste a bigger stage but are already stirring up the music scene. Unfortunately, most of these hopefuls fade into the background, unable to find their place in the ever-evolving music scene. Still, some manage to rise to the challenge and eventually make a name for themselves.
One of those who managed to enter the vibrant music scene through hard work and perseverance is Matthew Ezeigbo, better known as Half a Bar, an American-based musical artist from Nigeria. Aside from being a sensational musical talent, he is also a business magnate, investor, and CEO of MatteyeRecords, a label that helps up and coming artists, like Tremor no Shaking, become big superstars in the Nigerian Entertainment Industry.
Half a Bar started making music as a leisure activity, but he truly enjoyed improving the craft over the years. “It all started as a hobby, something I enjoyed doing until my friends and family started nagging me to take it more seriously, and I did,” he said. Eventually, the musician caved in and decided to dip his toes in the industry with a more serious take on things.
Just last year, Half a Bar released a single called “The Finest,” which made quite the splash, followed by a more recent release titled “Don’t Leave Me,” an alluring hit that continues to charm people who have listened to it; Sing King produced the single. Half a Bar’s musical style is inspired by his Nigerian roots with a mix of hip-hop and rap, taking inspiration from celebrated artists like Biggie, Jay Z, Nas, Rick Ross, and Mr. Incredible, a Nigerian himself. But Half a Bar is more than just someone who relies entirely on musical inspirations, elevating his musical creations with different elements that truly make his work stand out.
Aside from his successful musical endeavors, Half a Bar also manages other aspiring artists through his label MatteyeRecords, where he sits as CEO, helping these hopeful individuals find their place in the entertainment industry and inspiring them to not give up on their dreams and become better versions of themselves. He also hopes to shine a light on the Nigerian music industry, making it known globally, believing that there is more to it than meets the eye. “There are sounds from there that the world hasn’t heard yet,” Half a Bar adds.
Describing music as somewhat similar to crude oil, Half a Bar believes that if more would invest in Nigerian music, it will undoubtedly continue to thrive and prosper. As a result, the world will finally hear the distinct and beautiful sounds that the Nigerian music industry offers.
Half a Bar is just beginning his journey, but he has accomplished quite a lot. However, despite his many successes, this does not stop him from achieving even more. In years to come, he aspires to expand his label and introduce more uplifting music to the world in his style.
To learn more about Half a Bar and his label, check out his Instagram page.