Nigerian-born, Maryland-raised singer Mannywellz is set to embark on a transformative 14-city US tour in 2025. Benevolently dubbed “Mr Oulala” will showcase his unique “soulfro” sound and share his immigrant experience through live performances nationwide. In an intimate conversation before his tour, Mannywellz revealed the soul behind his ‘Soulfro’ sound—a narrative that transcends borders and beats.This tour represents a significant milestone in Mannywellz’s career, blending his Nigerian heritage with his American upbringing to create a musical journey that resonates across cultures.
Cultural Roots and Musical Evolution
Mannywellz’s Nigerian heritage is the foundation of his artistry. “It’s in the rhythms, the melodies, and the stories I tell,” he explains. His “soulfro” sound, a fusion of afrobeats, soul, and R&B, has evolved to incorporate even more diverse elements. “I’m blending genres in ways I haven’t before — afrobeats meeting alternative R&B, elements of gospel colliding with funk,” Mannywellz shares, highlighting the growth and maturity of his music since his last tour.
Personal Journey and Immigrant Experience
As a DACA recipient, Mannywellz’s immigrant experience profoundly shapes his musical narrative. “This tour is about showing that no matter the obstacles, you can thrive and make something meaningful,” he states. Mannywellz’s journey, marked by challenges like navigating the industry as an independent artist and personal losses, has fueled his creativity and resilience. On top of records like “Looking for God” and “Ouu Wee” going viral, these songs became testaments to his authenticity and connection with audiences.
Tour Highlights and City Connections
While excited about all tour stops, Mannywellz expressed particular enthusiasm for performances in the DMV area, Atlanta, and Houston. “The energy there is unmatched, and performing for my people always feels like a family reunion,” he says of the DMV. Each city offers a unique vibe. Mannywellz plans to incorporate local elements and collaborate with area artists to create meaningful connections with his audience.
Behind the Scenes and Staying Grounded
Preparing for the tour has been punctuated by memorable moments, particularly during rehearsals for “Ouu Wee.” To maintain his creative energy across multiple venues, Mannywellz grounds himself in gratitude and purpose. “Before every show, I pray with a heart of gratitude and take a moment to reflect on why I started this journey,” he reveals.
A Message of Love and Connection
At the heart of this tour is a powerful message: “God is love.” Mannywellz aims to communicate this through his music, storytelling, and the energy shared with his audience. “It’s about understanding that love is universal, transformative, and deeply healing,” he explained. By sharing personal stories and creating an inclusive atmosphere, Mannywellz hopes to make every performance a unifying experience.
As Mannywellz prepares to take his “soulfro” sound across the United States, his 2025 tour promises to be more than just a series of concerts. Rather, the tour intends to be a celebration of cultural identity, resilience, and the power of music to bridge divides.