Music is a form of healing for me, says DJ Cuppy, opens up on identity, purpose

Afrobeats star, DJ and philanthropist Florence Ifeoluwa Otedola, popularly known as Cuppy, has opened up on her personal evolution, saying she is freeing herself from the expectations and perceptions that have shaped her public image.

Cuppy, who recently shared new-look photographs on social media, appeared more daring and graceful as she continues to redefine herself while focusing on her mission to inspire young Africans, advocate for vulnerable people and contribute to positive change.

One of the most recognisable figures of her generation, Cuppy has built a successful career in music and DJing while also establishing herself as a philanthropist and advocate for young people in Africa and the diaspora.

Reflecting on the role of music in her life, she said, “As Africans, we communicate so strongly through music. I learned that when I was younger, and I hold it close to me even now. It is and will always be, a form of healing for me.”

However, beyond music and entertainment, Cuppy has increasingly focused on education, philanthropy and advocacy. Through the Cuppy Foundation, she has supported initiatives aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable children, while also using her international platform to champion issues affecting young people.

She has participated regularly in the United Nations General Assembly, where she has advocated for young Africans, and in 2025, the Gates Foundation named her one of its Goalkeepers in recognition of her advocacy around the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly quality education and gender equality.

For Cuppy, philanthropy goes beyond making donations, as she believes its impact should be sustainable.

“Charity is just giving because you want to. Being a philanthropist, though, is about making a lasting difference. It’s about long-lasting results. If my privilege ends with me, what is the point of it?” she said.

Her current transformation, however, appears to be as much about personal identity as it is about public service.

Having grown up under intense public scrutiny, Cuppy admitted that maintaining a larger-than-life persona came with its own challenges.

“It’s really hard to grow up when everyone is watching you. I learned from a young age that high standards are what we do in my family. Whatever you want to do, you must be excellent at it,” she said.

She acknowledged that, for a long time, she struggled to separate her public persona from her true self.

“I had gotten used to performing who I am, and that is something I am unlearning. For a long time, I felt like people applauded Cuppy’s energy, but they failed to recognize my depth as Florence,” she said.

Looking back at the period when her colourful appearance, pink wigs and distinctive fashion became central to her public identity, Cuppy said she eventually realised that the persona was difficult to sustain.

“I created a persona I couldn’t sustain, and I don’t want to pressure myself to do so. I mean, I woke up one day and said, ‘I don’t want to wear a pink wig or false lashes. So what?’” she said.

She described the experience as a turning point in her life, allowing her to question the expectations surrounding her and embrace a more authentic version of herself.

“This is the emancipation of Cuppy, and she is freeing herself of the perceptions of others. Now, I do not apologize for who I am, and I don’t do things I do not want to do,” she said.

With her latest transformation, Cuppy appears determined to move beyond the image that first made her famous and place greater emphasis on purpose, impact and authenticity.