The Clipper

Issue date: 3/12/10 Section: Music

Media Credit: Photo coutesy of Mobi Njoku Artist Bun B and International Mo

Mobi Njoku is a 22-year-old EvCC student who posses a strong devotion to music whose message is to "offer people a breath of fresh air."

His stage name, "International Mo," was given to him by his friends based on his cultural background. "A couple of my friends nicknamed me that because they know I'm Nigerian," said Njoku.

Njoku's music is rooted in hip-hop but is not limited to any specific genre. "I call it experimental at this point because I am looking to branch out and do different genres," said Njoku. Musical elements that currently coexist in Njoku's music are mainly musical beats and vocals. Njoku intends to branch out and add a guitarist and a live band.

International Mo's lyrics are based on real life and serious issues. "I try to talk about what's real, I can't fabricate or make anything up in my rhymes," said Njoku. " I talk about social issues, political issues, racial issues and I talk about what 22-year-olds do."

Njoku's musical influences include Jay Z, Kanye West, and Drake. "Jay Z is my favorite rapper, He is not only an influence but is also a role model," said Njoku. " Right now, Drake is my biggest musical influence- we are the same age and we go through a lot of the same things.

Njoku, an American-born citizen whose parents were born in Nigeria, says, "my parents stress education more than anything so, as long as my education is straight, they don't really care what I do on the side... like every good parent, they don't want me to lose sight [of] what [is] most important and most valuable. Education is going to be the catalyst to do everything."

Njoku's girlfriend, Jennifer Boratino, is a major fan of her boyfriend's music. "When I met Mobi, and heard his music I felt it was a whole new realm of creativity." said Boratino. "I think his music is great, obviously."

As for Njoku's future, he is planning a mix tape launching party this summer which will double as a birthday party.

"I am active on Facebook and my blog is www.seattlesons.blogspot.com," said Njoku. Njoku can also be reached on his Facebook page: Mo Njoku, or on Myspace at http://www.myspace.com/thehometeam/.

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