Rheed1: A Self-Made Voice of Resilience and Faith
On Beginnings & Identity
In an industry where hype often overshadows heart, Rheed1, real name Raheem Rilwan Tobiloba, stands out as a rare kind of artist; self-made, self-driven, and deeply rooted in resilience. With no label machine or big team behind him, he has built his career brick by brick, fuelled by persistence and an unwavering belief in his sound.
“Things I didn’t think I could do, I’ve been able to achieve. Regardless of the shortcomings and obstacles, I always find my way around them.”
Growing up in Lagos gave Rheed1 the foundation for his storytelling. His early life was simple and safe, but the sudden loss of his mother three years ago changed everything. That tragedy, he says, pushed him to confront the harder realities of life, which are disappointment, betrayal, and struggle.
“Back then, I sang mostly love songs. But after losing her, everything shifted. Music became my way to tell the truth, to find peace, and to get closer to God.”
Pinnacle & Solo
From this new reality came tracks like “Pinnacle” and “Solo”, both deeply spiritual and raw.
“Pinnacle is a starting point for me, a prayer song. Anything you start should begin with prayer,” he explains. “The lyrics are me asking God to help me achieve my goals.”
If Pinnacle is prayer, then Solo is confession. Behind his cheerful public image lies someone who has fought hard to stay strong. “People see me as the happy guy, but Solo shows the struggles and emotions beneath that smile.”
Together, both songs form part of a storyline he’s building through music, one of hardship, faith, and eventual triumph.
Process & Sound
Rheed1’s Afro-fusion sound, blending Afrobeats, soulful melodies, and cinematic layers, was forged in the church. He began on drums, moved to the choir, and later picked up the guitar, his favourite instrument.
“The guitar taught me how to pour emotion into sound,” he says. As both a singer and producer, he crafts melodies that carry his story with intention. “I know exactly how I want my music to sound: emotional, melodic, and real.”
Struggles & Faith
While many artists struggle with self-doubt, Rheed1 insists that confidence in his craft has never been his stumbling block.
“I know I make good music. Whoever listens can tell. The only thing that holds me back is funding, not talent.”
Still, his songs often feel like anthems for hustlers and dreamers, for those fighting their way up from the ground. Rheed1 doesn’t shy away from that responsibility. His music is both personal healing and a message to others that resilience is possible.
Vision & Future
If someone’s first introduction to Rheed1 is through Solo, he hopes they take away one thing: doggedness.
“Life is full of struggles, but we must fight, stay responsible, and motivate others,” he says. “I want listeners to see a believer who still stands strong despite everything.”
Looking ahead, Rheed1 dreams of global stardom, not for fame’s sake, but for impact. “I grew up listening to Michael Jackson. I want that kind of stardom, the ability to connect deeply with people through music, to resonate, to preach, to reach hearts.”
On the business side, he remains open to partnerships but cautious about control. “If I had the resources, I’d stay independent. But if a label comes, they must believe in my vision, not just the business side.”
Asked to describe his sound as a meal, Rheed1 laughs before answering plainly:
“Pounded Yam with egusi. It hits the right spot, gives satisfaction, and is tough; a meal for strong people.”
His manager, standing by, adds playfully: “Or everyone’s favourite food; something universal that anyone can identify with and enjoy.”
Together, the answers capture the two sides of his music: hearty, grounded and strong, yet universal enough that any listener can find something to love.