Words by Andrea Gombalová

“The View from Lagos” with Deto Black

Deto Black has never been interested in simply documenting the world around her. Instead, the Lagos-born artist studies it, picking apart the social dynamics, contradictions, and cultural shifts that often go unnoticed before transforming them into sharp, genre-defying music. Blending rap, pop, and alternative sounds, she has become one of the defining voices of Nigeria's alté movement, building a creative universe that extends far beyond music into fashion, film, and visual storytelling.

Following the release of Sisi Eko, a playful yet pointed reflection on modern dating culture in Lagos, we spoke with Deto Black about people-watching, power dynamics, female friendship, the evolution of alté culture, and why observation remains at the center of everything she creates.

You once described yourself as an "anthropologist turned rapper." Before the music, were you always someone who observed people closely?

Oh yes definitely. I love people watching and I love putting my self in other peoples shoes to see what their life could be like. It usually opens my mind up to new possibilities and ways of thinking, which I love.

A lot of your songs feel like social commentary disguised as bangers. Do you see yourself as a storyteller?

LOL, yes, actually some of my lyrical content is from the perspective of someone else. There are certain things I wouldn’t do but I witness often and I’m intrigued by, so I use my music as a way to tell that story .

Sisi Eko looks at dating culture through a very specific Lagos lens. What made you want to turn that observation into a song?

The Lagos dating scene is just something I find so interesting it’s evolved to what it is now and I think although it’s toxic I just like that women are in the game really and not just getting played 
Keeping your head down and working in silence is always the best move. 

When did you first realize that being underestimated can be useful?

I think I realised that from a really young age maybe like 10 or 11 years old . Keeping your head down and working in silence is always the best move. 

You challenge the idea that transactional relationships are something new. Why do you think people are often uncomfortable when women become more transparent about power dynamics?

I think it’s scary when a group that has been oppressed for so long finally starts waking up and realising their power. People are usually uncomfortable with that. The oppressor never wants the oppressed to realise their power. The patriarchy is a system that has ruled for so long and I think any threat to that will be uncomfortable for those who benefit from it. But thats too bad.

What helped you become comfortable taking up space so unapologetically?

My mother definitely made me comfortable taking up space. She’s a fiery Aries that has always spoken life into me and made me aware of the power I possess.

Photography maestudios___

Photography maestudios___

You directed the video yourself. What interests you about building visual worlds in addition to musical ones?

Actually cruelsantino and mowalola helped me direct Sisi Eko. For me music needs visuals. It helps understand the context of the song better and I just personally love combining my love for fashion, film, art and music, which music videos allow me to do. 

Fashion has become a major part of your public identity. What does fashion allow you to express that music doesn't?

I think fashion allows me to communicate without using words and that’s very powerful.

I want people to feel sexy and empowered and inspired.

What is your most Lagos habit?

My most Lagos habit is probably always having to be expecting VIP treatment everywhere. 

You've built a career by constantly reinventing yourself. Is there a version of yourself you haven't shown people yet?

My friends say I do not show my personality enough LOL. I’m just not used to talking to my phone. I’m better in person.

What do you want people to feel when they leave a Deto Black show?

I want people to feel sexy and empowered and inspired.

Photography The Lagos Paparazzi

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