In the ever-evolving UK music scene, emerging artists fight to carve out their space, balancing authenticity with ambition. Among them is Only Zizou, a rising talent who’s been steadily building a name for himself, blending rap, R&B, and alternative influences into a sound that’s both introspective and relatable. With under 10k monthly listeners, he’s still in the early stages of his career, but his approach to music—rooted in storytelling, emotion, and cultural fusion—sets him apart.
The Moment It Became Real
For many artists, there’s a defining moment when they realise music isn’t just a hobby—it’s a calling. For Only Zizou, that moment came the second he decided to start making music in 2022. But unlike many who jump in headfirst, he took a year to prepare himself mentally. “I gave myself a year to mentally prepare for any backlash or the possibility of being underappreciated. But at the end of the day, this is my dream, and if I don’t give it my all, I’ll never know what could have been.” That level of foresight and dedication is rare, and it’s clear he’s in this for the long haul.
Inspiration from the Streets and Beyond
Growing up between East London and Essex, Zizou’s environment shaped his artistry in profound ways. The fast-paced energy of East London, mixed with the quieter, more reflective atmosphere of Essex, created a duality that seeps into his music. “Inspiration comes from everywhere—conversations, emotions, late-night thoughts,” he explains. “The contrast between city energy and quieter moments fuels my creativity.”
His cultural influences extend beyond geography. With roots tracing back to Cameroon, he carries a deep appreciation for storytelling and melody, crafting music that resonates across different backgrounds.
Music with a Message
At the heart of Only Zizou’s work is a desire to make people feel something real. Whether it’s nostalgia, motivation, or deep reflection, his music is about connection. “I want people to feel something real. My music is about creating moments that stick with people, making them feel understood.”
This emotional depth is something he’s seen firsthand in the response to his music, particularly his gospel track, which struck a chord with listeners. “The reception to my gospel song during the first week of promoting it was overwhelming. People described it as beautiful, and it felt amazing to see how deeply it resonated.” It was a defining moment for him—not just in terms of audience response, but in realising the power of his faith and artistry combined. “Music has always been personal, but seeing others connect with something so close to my heart made me realise its true power—it’s more than just sound; it’s a bridge between emotions and shared experiences.”
A Unique Sound in a Crowded Scene
In a genre often criticised for following trends, Only Zizou prides himself on doing the opposite. His style blends thought-provoking lyricism with nostalgic rhythms, refusing to be boxed into a single genre. “I bridge the gap between thought-provoking lyricism and nostalgic rhythms. My sound isn’t boxed into one genre—I blend rap, R&B, and alternative elements to create something fresh yet familiar.”
His influences reflect this boundary-pushing approach. East London legends like Yxng Bane and Kano have shaped his melodic and lyrical sensibilities, while Potter Payper’s storytelling and authenticity have been key in developing his approach. On a global level, artists like Kanye West and Roddy Ricch have shown him the importance of pushing sonic boundaries.
And if he had the chance to collaborate with anyone? Adele. “Because she doesn’t do features, and it would be a dream come true if I were the first.” The idea of merging Adele’s raw emotional delivery with his introspective lyricism? That’s the kind of creative risk that makes legends.
Building the Legacy
For Zizou, success isn’t just about streams or chart placements—it’s about family. “My goal is to take care of my family—once I’ve done that, I’ve won. Everything else is a bonus.” It’s a refreshingly grounded outlook, proving that his motivation runs deeper than fame.
Right now, he’s focused on building his catalogue, experimenting with sounds, and refining his artistry. With under 10k monthly listeners, the world is just beginning to catch on—but big things are coming.
In five years? “Touring, making music that resonates globally, and elevating my artistry. I want to be in a place where my sound is instantly recognisable.” And with his dedication to authenticity, it’s only a matter of time.
For Those Just Starting Out
If there’s one piece of advice he’d give to upcoming artists, it’s this: stay authentic. “Trends come and go, but originality and consistency will always set you apart.”
Only Zizou isn’t here to follow trends. He’s here to create something lasting, something that speaks to people on a deeper level. And as his journey continues, there’s no doubt he’ll leave his mark on the UK music scene.
Follow Only Zizou’s journey and listen to his latest tracks. @onlyzizou