The Rise of Shadow Rex: From Pain to Purpose

The Rise of Shadow Rex: From Pain to Purpose

Shadow Rex shares his story in this emotional and revealing interview — from a turbulent childhood in Ogoja to becoming a rising voice in Afro-soul fusion, his journey is one of passion, healing, and purpose.

Tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Idajor Micheal Idajor, but the world knows me as Shadow Rex. I was born and raised in Ogoja, Bekwarra Local Government Area, Cross River State, Nigeria — and my journey hasn’t been a smooth one. I grew up in a chaotic environment, surrounded by negativity, family issues, and pressure that could have crushed me. But somehow, all that darkness helped me find my light: music.

How did your upbringing influence your passion for music?

My upbringing gave me more than just pain — it gave me a voice. When life was hard and confusing, music became my escape. It became the only thing that made sense. While people around me saw failure or limitation, I saw rhythm. I found healing in melodies. And even though I was just a kid, I knew I had something to say.

When did you start making music seriously?

It all started around 2015. I was only 13, but I had already been writing and experimenting. I remember sneaking out at night to record in studios because my parents didn’t support the idea of me doing music. That year, I entered my first music audition, performed in front of a crowd, and won. That moment changed everything for me. I stopped seeing music as just an escape — it became my calling.

What genres best describe your sound?

My sound is a fusion of Afrobeats, soul, and what I like to call “Emo-Afrofusion.” It’s emotional, melodic, and rooted in storytelling. I want people to feel every word, not just hear the rhythm. Whether it’s pain, love, or hope, I channel it into my sound.

Who are your biggest musical influences?

I draw inspiration from both African and international legends. 2Pac gave me poetic depth. Eminem taught me how to channel pain into words. Wizkid and Burna Boy showed me what global African excellence looks like. Rema’s creativity opened my mind. Rihanna, Justin Bieber, and Jay-Z also shaped how I think about music and purpose. Each of them helped me realize that music can be personal and powerful at the same time.

How would you describe your artistic style and creative process?

My artistic style is raw, real, and soulful. I sing from the shadows — the quiet places where people usually hide their pain. I don’t just make music for entertainment; I make it to heal. My process is emotional. Sometimes I hum melodies when I’m alone, sometimes I write lyrics at 2 a.m. when everything feels heavy. It’s never forced. I let the music come to me naturally, like a conversation between my soul and the world.

What challenges have you faced, and how did you overcome them?

A lot. The biggest was the lack of support from my family. I had to fight to be heard, even in my own home. Financial struggles, doubt, and people telling me I’d never make it — I went through it all. But I kept showing up. Music wasn’t just a dream for me; it was survival. Winning my first award, recording my first song, and seeing “Linda” go viral reminded me that pain can build purpose if you don’t give up.

Let’s talk about your single “Depressed.” What inspired it?

“Depressed” came from a very dark place. I was going through emotional burnout, feeling unseen, unheard, and overwhelmed. I wrote that song as a cry — not just for me, but for everyone out there silently suffering. It’s my way of saying, “I see you. I hear you. You’re not alone.” That track is more than a song — it’s therapy.

What’s the core message of the project?

It’s about emotional healing. We all go through heartbreak, depression, and silent battles. I want people to understand that their pain is valid, but it’s not the end. Through my music, I try to show that you can turn pain into strength. Every track is a reminder that from the shadows, you can rise.

Did you collaborate with anyone on this project?

Yes, I worked with a super talented underground producer named Emmanuel Ohiani Abeka — aka Emrun. He understood my sound and gave me the space to be vulnerable. We didn’t chase big-name features; we kept it raw and real. It was just me, my truth, and a producer who believed in the message.

What was the recording process like?

Very emotional. There were moments I broke down while recording. I’d have to pause, breathe, and come back stronger. Some songs took time to complete because I didn’t want to rush the healing process. Every lyric, every harmony — it had to feel true. It was like therapy with a microphone.

How do you want listeners to feel when they hear your music?

I want them to feel seen. To know they’re not alone. If you’re going through something and you hear my song and feel a little lighter — that’s everything to me. I want people to carry the healing with them even after the track ends.

What would you say has been your biggest milestone so far?

Definitely recording my first track at 13 and winning my first music audition. But when “Linda” went viral, that was a turning point. It showed me that my voice could reach people. It gave me the confidence to keep pushing.

Have you gotten any recognition or awards?

Yes. Winning that music audition in 2015 meant a lot — it was my first time on a big stage. I also started gaining local recognition after “Linda” dropped. The street buzz, the reposts, the love from fans — it all kept me going.

What’s been your most unforgettable career moment?

Walking into the studio for the first time back in 2015. I was nervous and scared, but when I heard my voice on the speakers after recording, I knew this was it. That was the day the dream became real.

What are your goals for the future?

I want to take my sound global — touch lives across continents. I’m planning more projects that tell my story with even deeper layers. I’m working toward collaborations with artists who share my vision, and I’m aiming for international platforms. But no matter how big things get, I’ll always stay grounded in the purpose: healing through music.

Are there any upcoming releases or performances?

Absolutely. I’ve got a new project in the works with a few surprise collaborations. I’m also planning live performances — both intimate and large-scale. I want to connect with my fans in real time and bring that Shadow Rex energy to the stage. We’re just getting started.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

Five years from now, I see myself performing on global stages, topping charts, and creating a platform for young, unheard voices. Shadow Rex won’t just be an artist name — it’ll be a movement for healing, truth, and self-expression. I want to help others rise just like I did.

Outside of music, what are your interests?

I’m a deep thinker. I love reflecting, reading, observing life. I’m also into fashion — I see style as another way to express emotion. Being in nature, journaling, having real conversations — all of that feeds my creativity.

What keeps you motivated as an artist?

The people. The ones still struggling but refusing to give up. I see myself in them. Life is tough, but music helps us process it. That constant cycle of emotion, experience, and healing — that’s what fuels me. And I remember why I started: to inspire, to heal, to be a voice for those who can’t speak up.

Any final words to your fans?

To anyone listening — you’re not alone. You’re not broken beyond repair. There is strength in your story and healing in your scars. Keep believing in yourself. Through my music, I hope you find comfort, courage, and connection. This is only the beginning, and I’m honored to walk this journey with you.