Q&A: An Paramount Force in Hip-Hop: Travy's Journey from Dublin to the World
FORGING A UNIQUE SOUND, CREATING CULTURE AND OPENING DOORS—these principles define Travy’s artistry and purpose. Travy’s rise in the Irish rap scene has been nothing short of monumental, and his track “Forgive Me” only further proves his star potential. With a dual-cultural perspective, passion for storytelling in rap, and multifaceted talent, Travy offers a fresh perspective that transcends Ireland’s borders. After relocating from Nigeria to Ireland, Travy found comfort in his father’s iPod Nano where he encountered and fell in love with the storytelling on 50 Cent’s legendary Get Rich or Die Tryin 2003 album. Enamored by this discovery, he knew he was destined for a career in hip hop.
The Nigerian-born, Ireland-bred artist has already broken records by having his debut projects, Full Circle and DOGHOUSE, respectively reach No. 2 and No. 1 on the Irish Official Albums chart. In Dublin, Travy found more than just a new home—he found a community. Along with like-minded artists, he formed the Gliders Creative Collective, a home for both music and fashion.
Together, they’ve reinvented the Irish hip-hop scene, blending American hip-hop, British grime, and Nigerian highlife into something unique. The release of their breakout single, ‘Blockbuster’, grabbed listeners’ attention and emphasized Travy as a force to be reckoned with. He draws from a wide range of influences to create a sound that's intoxicating and undeniably his own.
As Travy continues to ascend, he’s not just focused on his own success, he's driven by a desire to build a lasting and hip-hop community in Dublin. He aims to make the city a haven for rap music and talent, creating opportunities for the next generation. “I’m doing this for me and my team,” he says, “but also to build a culture that will outlast us.”
LUNA: As a Nigerian-born, Ireland-bred artist, your background may surprise those who perceive Ireland as having a predominantly white culture. How do you think your dual identity influences the music you create and your artistic persona?
TRAVY: When I started working on my own project, I realized how deeply I could channel everything into my music. Moving to Ireland from Nigeria when I was just six years old, the feeling of alienation hit me hard. I remember it vividly—the first thing I noticed was how different I looked from everyone else. Where I was living, the community was predominantly white, and that clear sense of difference became a part of my daily life. Over time, I started to see and understand discrimination for what it was, something that didn’t exist in the same way in Nigeria, where everyone around me was Black.
As I got older, I saw how people’s fear or discomfort with what they didn’t understand came out in different ways—sometimes aggression, sometimes racism. Growing up in that environment forced me to confront these situations head-on. My mom was a social worker, so I learned to balance standing up for myself with trying to educate people around me. I’ll never forget a time in school when a classmate, Gonzalo, kept using racial slurs, even after I told him to stop. I warned him, but he didn’t listen, so I took matters into my own hands. After that, I sat him down and explained that just because we look different doesn’t mean we’re any less human. Surprisingly, we ended up becoming best friends, and when he eventually left school, he was in tears saying goodbye.
All these experiences shaped my perspective, and they definitely influence my music. Being a young Black man in Ireland, facing and overcoming these challenges has given me a unique story to tell. Through my lyrics, I highlight inequality and the struggle of navigating life as a Nigerian in a predominantly white space. We Nigerians, wherever we go, we push ourselves to excel. That drive fuels my music and my life.
LUNA: How often do you go back to Nigeria?
TRAVY: Quite frequently actually. Last year's trip to Nigeria was an eye-opener for me. It was my first time back in a while, and as an adult, it was a completely different experience. When I returned home, I realized how much I'd forgotten who I am. Living in the West for so long can make you lose touch with your roots. Going back to Nigeria made me realize, 'I am Nigerian.' I visited my village, and it was empowering. I felt connected to my heritage.
I genuinely believe that knowing where you're from is crucial. When you don't know who you are, it's harder to navigate life. You struggle to decide what you want to be, understand your trajectory, or even know what you stand for. You can't help others or make meaningful decisions without a strong sense of self.
That experience definitely helped me with music, life, and family. It gave me clarity and direction.
LUNA: Considering your exploration of your roots, how do you plan to incorporate your cultural influences into your music? I think of Tyla, who proudly represents her culture and her love for South Africa by blending Amapiano with pop to create “Popiano.” As a rapper influenced by hip-hop and grime, are you open to experimenting with sounds closer to your African roots such as Afrobeats?
TRAVY: There is definitely a lot of influence with my focus on storytelling as a rapper. My song “Immigrants” tells a story. The chorus starts with, “I'm a young black immigrant coming to take everything you have.” It's about embracing my Nigerian heritage and reconnecting with my roots.
My sound is still evolving. With each project, I unlock new aspects of myself. This current project was therapeutic, addressing pain and trauma from growing up Nigerian in Ireland. Recording in Paris for two months felt like therapy. I examined my experiences, wanting to authentically tell my story. It's delicate and special to me. I'm still understanding my sound and identity. But with each project, I gain clarity.
LUNA: That resonates with many who share similar experiences. It's fascinating and admirable how you combine your sound and storytelling to reflect your cultural background. You mentioned Get Rich or Die Tryin' by 50 Cent, an album rich in storytelling. What films or other art forms have influenced your songwriting and composition style?
TRAVY: Movies, fashion designers like Virgil Abloh, and creative directors inspire me. Virgil's philosophy resonates: in today's saturated world, you need to stand for something and create your own unique space. As a rapper, brand owner, and creative director, I relate.
I've been soaking up inspiration since I was 17. 50 Cent's Get Rich or Die Tryin', Virgil's creative process, and great movies have shaped my vision. I'm fascinated by people who bring ideas to life. Seeing someone think, create, and execute their vision is amazing.
That blueprint of turning ideas into reality drives me. 50 Cent and Virgil exemplify this. They had a clear vision, worked tirelessly, and achieved success. I apply this mindset to my own life and career often.
LUNA: Gliders reminds me of other collectives started by young rappers. I've seen many begin, but few sustain. It's lovely to see you continue on that trajectory, finding success. You've made history, finding your voice in something often dismissed as youthful indulgence. Congratulations.
Reaching number one and two on the Irish Official Albums Chart with your projects is historic, and overall just mind-blowing. How does this achievement shape your definition of success going forward in your career?
TRAVY: I focus on the present moment. Rather than comparing myself to bigger artists, I prioritize making an impact in my own community. In Dublin, I've established a strong presence, and that's fulfilling. It is heartwarming to know that I inspire other kids who look like me. Initially, I considered relocating to London to accelerate my career, but I'm glad I stayed in Ireland. Achieving number one and two on the Irish Official Albums Chart has laid the groundwork for longevity. I'm not chasing quick fame or fortune; I want to be remembered for my influence and impact. I believe our mission in life is to lead with love. When people tell me I've inspired them, it reinforces my purpose. I won't take this for granted. I'll keep working, chasing longevity, and praying for continued success.
LUNA: Can you walk me through the production process of your upcoming project, from creating instrumentation to songwriting?
TRAVY: My production process varies. For example, 'Forgive Me' was created two years ago for someone else, but I rediscovered it while working on 'Spooky.' I collaborated with my producer, Liam, in Paris, where we lived and worked together for two months. Our setup was minimalist: speaker, headphones, microphone, and sometimes a studio visit. I isolated myself, focusing solely on creativity. Whenever inspiration struck, I could immediately record. This freedom sparked natural ideas. Liam and I went through ups and downs—financial struggles, shorty issues – but our shared mission kept us driven. We formed a unity and used those challenges to create something special.
LUNA: How does your upcoming project differ from Dog House and Full Circle in terms of sound, storytelling, and songwriting?
TRAVY: Since it's a solo project, I can fully express myself. It's darker, reflecting my journey, struggles, and growth. I've let go of emotions and thoughts that weighed me down. Sonically, it's diverse – more melodies, aggressive rapping, and storytelling.I'm uninhibited, sharing my truth without concern for offense. This is my perspective, my story. I'm showcasing my capabilities, and it's special.
LUNA: Your determination is evident in your music, especially in creating something bigger than yourself. You've worked with Gliders, performed at Longitude Festival, on the same lineup as Travis Scott. What are your dream collaborations or hopes for future collaborations? Are there specific artists or producers you'd like to work with, either in the near or far future?
TRAVY: My collaborations are genuine and organic. I avoid forced or superficial partnerships, prioritizing authenticity over fame or prestige. My relationships, including those with producers, are built on shared energy and values so I can’t say that I spend a lot of time desperately seeking out bigger artists for a collaboration because it has to feel right. However, I would love to work with Kanye West and Skepta one day. Beyond them, I'm drawn to the new generation of underground artists, particularly those from Nigeria. Their passion and purity excite me more than mainstream music, which can feel like a job.
LUNA: What are your future plans for your upcoming project and Gliders?
TRAVY: I just want to stay in my zone, focused on working. It's funny—during a conversation with a friend today, he called me a "godfather." But I don’t see it that way. I move fast and stay so locked in that I’ll only look back and reflect when I’m much older, once I’ve seen what I’ve accomplished. Right now, my priority is to release this project and change the landscape of music by offering a new perspective—an Irish rapper being raw, honest, and genuine.
I’ll keep pushing forward with my mission alongside Gliders, aiming for it to one day become a household name. For me, it’s all about the journey and the process. I want to fall more in love with both, meeting incredible people who can help contribute to the mission. That’s what’s next for me—staying dedicated and evolving through the process.
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