Before Stardom With…Frank Edwards

My name is Frank Ugochukwu Edwards. I am a gospel artiste, songwriter, music producer, and sound engineer.

I am also a multi-instrumentalist, and music has been a major part of my life since childhood. I was born in Enugu State, and I grew up in a family where music was very much appreciated.

So, when did you start singing?

I started singing at a young age and learnt to play the piano from my father. Over the years, music evolved from something I loved into a calling and a platform through which I can serve God and connect with people.

I have had the privilege of releasing several projects, collaborating with amazing artistes and ministers, and ministering to people in different parts of the world. I also run Rocktown Records, where I have had the opportunity to develop music and work with other creatives.

At the heart of everything I do, however, I see myself first as someone who has been given a gift and a responsibility to use that gift well. The journey has been about growth, service, learning, and remaining grateful to God.

Was being a musician a childhood dream?

Music was certainly a major part of my childhood, although I would not say I understood everything it would eventually become for me. As I grew older, I became increasingly passionate about songwriting, production, and the entire creative process. Looking back now, I can see how many of those early experiences prepared me for what I am doing today.

What inspired you to make music?

My greatest inspiration is my relationship with God and the things I experience in life. Sometimes, a song comes from a scripture, sometimes from a personal experience, and sometimes simply from a melody or idea that comes to me.

I have always believed that music has the ability to communicate what ordinary conversation sometimes cannot. For me, the goal is not simply to make music that sounds good, but to create music that carries something meaningful and can encourage, strengthen, or inspire someone.

What challenges did you face on your way to stardom?

There have been many challenges, but I prefer to describe them as part of the learning process rather than focus on the difficulties. There were seasons when resources were limited, seasons of uncertainty, and moments when I had to learn things through experience rather than having someone teach me. Balancing creativity, ministry, business, and personal growth has also required discipline. One thing the journey has taught me is that success does not remove challenges; it simply introduces you to different ones. The important thing is to keep growing, remain teachable, and not allow difficult seasons to change your values.

How would you describe the music that you typically create?

I would describe my music as gospel music that draws from different sounds and influences. I enjoy experimenting with different genres and production styles while keeping the message at the centre.

You can hear elements of African music, contemporary gospel, worship, pop, and other musical influences in different things I create.

I believe gospel music can be excellent, contemporary and globally relevant without losing its spiritual identity.

How do you juggle being a gospel artiste and a song producer?

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For me, the two roles actually complement each other. Being an artiste allows me to express a message through performance, while production gives me the opportunity to help shape the sound and creativity behind that message. I have always enjoyed being involved in the process from the beginning of a song to the finished product. It can be demanding, but I enjoy the process. The key is organisation, discipline and knowing when to step back and rest.

Has stardom deprived you of anything?

Fame comes with certain sacrifices, particularly privacy and spontaneity. There are things you cannot always do as freely as you did before people knew you. Your movements, time, and interactions can also become more complicated.

But I try not to look at it as what I have lost. I focus more on the responsibility that comes with the platform and the opportunity to influence people positively. Every season comes with its own price, and I am grateful for the journey.

Are you still friends with those who were with you before stardom?

Absolutely. I value genuine relationships. Of course, as life progresses, people’s responsibilities and locations change, so relationships may naturally evolve. But I don’t believe success should make you forget the people who were part of your journey. I am grateful for the people who believed in me at different stages of my life, and I try to maintain healthy relationships based on love, respect, and sincerity.

How do you handle advances from female fans?

I am grateful for the love and support I receive from people who listen to my music, and I try to treat everyone with respect. At the same time, I believe there should be healthy boundaries. Being an artiste gives you access to many people, but that doesn’t mean every relationship needs to become personal. I simply try to remain respectful, professional, and focused on why I was given the platform in the first place.

You were away from the music scene for a while. Was this intentional?

I wouldn’t necessarily describe it as being away from music. There have been seasons when I have been less visible publicly, but I have continued to create, produce, write, and work behind the scenes. Sometimes the most productive seasons are not necessarily the ones people see. I have also learnt that there is a difference between being quiet and being inactive. Some seasons are about preparation, rebuilding, creating, and getting the right perspective for what comes next.

What project are you currently working on?

I am currently working on several musical projects and collaborations. One of the things I am particularly focused on is creating music that reflects where I am spiritually and creatively at this stage of my life. I am also interested in developing other creatives and continuing to build structures that allow good music and young talents to thrive. There are projects I would rather allow the music itself to announce when the time is right, so I am looking forward to sharing more with the public when they are ready.

What favourite song do you love to perform?

It is difficult to choose just one because different songs connect with me in different ways. I particularly enjoy performing songs that allow me to worship and interact with people beyond simply singing a song. For me, the most rewarding moments are when I can see that the music is helping people reconnect with God, find hope, or simply experience joy. So, my favourite song can change depending on the season and what I am ministering.

What are your professional goals for the next five years?

My goal is to continue growing as an artiste, producer, and creative entrepreneur while making meaningful contributions to gospel music globally. I want to see African gospel music continue to reach audiences around the world at the highest level of excellence. I also want to invest more in developing young musicians, producers and creatives and create platforms where talent can be nurtured. Ultimately, I want the next five years to be about impact, excellence, mentorship, and building things that will continue to serve people beyond my own career.

What is your advice to up-and-coming musicians?

First, develop your gift. Talent may open a door, but discipline, character, consistency, and learning are what help you sustain the journey. Don’t be in a hurry to become famous. Be in a hurry to become good at what you do. Learn your craft. Study music. Understand your business. Learn how to relate to people. Protect your character and don’t compromise your values simply because you want attention.

There will be seasons when nobody seems to notice what you are doing. Keep working. Keep learning. Keep improving. And for those who are Christians, never allow the desire for visibility to become bigger than your relationship with God. Platforms can change, trends can change, and people’s opinions can change, but your foundation matters. I would also encourage young artistes to understand that there is room for everyone. You don’t have to destroy someone else’s journey for yours to succeed. Celebrate other people’s progress, collaborate, remain teachable, and trust your own process. The journey is different for everyone, so focus on becoming the best version of what God has called you to be.