AfroSoul Artist Ch! Nonso Returns with ‘My Own’
AfroSoul artist Ch! Nonso unveils his new single My Own supported by NZ On Air, a bass-led, mid-tempo groove that bridges Nigerian Pidgin, Igbo language, and the fluid rhythms of modern Afrobeats. The release offers the first glimpse into his upcoming 2026 album, a body of work set to weave together both energetic, layered tracks and intimate moments.
Produced by Mazbou Q (a.k.a. The Rap Scientist),with contributions from bassist Dave Schaevitz and Weird Together’s Mavs Adegbite (percussion), the track unfolds as a conversation between two halves of the self, the extrovert and introvert, the anima and animus, the yin and yang.
“It’s a wellbeing check-in between these dualities,” says Ch! Nonso. “They understand they complement each other, so they’re rooting for each other. Probably my most symmetrical song lyrics yet.”
Born in Enugu, Nigeria and now based in Auckland, Ch! Nonso’s music is deeply influenced by Igbo rhythms such as Amawbia and Mbaise sounds, as well as Highlife, R&B, Afrobeat, Jazz, and Soul. His lyrical storytelling draws on traditional African philosophies while exploring themes of identity, belonging, and cultural duality.
A former church choir member and university boy band vocalist, he previously performed as Nuel Nonso with Ijebu Pleasure Club and collaborated with artists like Phodiso, Mazbou Q, New Telepathics, and Sola Rosa. His debut EP, Kola Nuts & Chardonnay (2023), described by Stuff NZ as “a masterclass in bridging worlds”, blending West African rhythms with soul and jazz “in a way that feels both celebratory and grounded.”
Ch! Nonso’s first major recognition as a songwriter comes with a nomination for the APRA Silver Scroll | Kaitito Kaiaka, shared with his producer and regular collaborator Mazbou Q, for Torque. – a track from Mazbou Q’s 2025 album Rap Science that samples Ch! Nonso’s Ka Home from his debut EP Kola Nuts & Chardonnay.
Ch! Nonoso’s Favourite lyric from the track?
‘Welụ ọsọ, welụ ije, take the best route… home.’
‘E ji m ọsọ, e ji m ije, I’m taking the best route… home.’
“These moments feel tender and reciprocal. The inner child healed. Lol,” he says.
Supported by NZ On Air My Own is now available on all streaming platforms.
Photo Credit: Jared Tinetti
