For over a decade, Phillip Kayode Moses, professionally known as Pheelz, built a solid reputation as one of Nigeria’s most prolific music producers. Known for crafting hits for artists like Olamide, Fireboy DML, and Adekunle Gold, he had long operated behind the scenes, shaping the sound of contemporary Afropop.
But 2022 marked a dramatic shift. With the release of “Finesse,” Pheelz stepped confidently from the background into the limelight, proving that he wasn’t just a wizard in the studio—he also possessed the charisma and creativity to thrive as a front-facing performer. “Finesse” was not his first vocal offering, but it was undoubtedly the one that transformed him into a full-fledged recording artist with global appeal.
The Genesis of a Viral Smash
“Finesse” began with a social media tease. In February 2022, Pheelz shared a short snippet of the track on TikTok, casually showcasing a catchy hook: “If I broke na my business…” That one line, sung with nonchalance yet dripping with confidence, became an instant earworm.
Within hours, TikTok users across Nigeria and beyond began using the audio for skits, memes, and lip-syncs. The snippet’s viral traction forced Pheelz to fast-track the song’s release. To elevate the track further, he brought in BNXN—one of Nigeria’s most sought-after young vocalists at the time. BNXN’s smooth, soulful delivery added depth and dynamism, transforming the song into a melodic masterpiece.
On March 3, 2022, “Finesse” officially dropped, and the ripple effect was immediate and far-reaching.
A Sonic Cocktail of Confidence and Groove
At its core, “Finesse” embodies the laid-back braggadocio that defines much of contemporary Afrobeats. The song combines crisp percussion, silky guitar riffs, and a bass-heavy rhythm that oozes coolness. Lyrically, it offers a snapshot of youthful ambition, self-assuredness, and the hustle mentality—core themes that resonate with a generation of dreamers across Africa and the diaspora.
Lines like “If I broke na my business / Ama shana e go bright o” struck a chord with listeners navigating economic challenges while still maintaining a sense of dignity and swagger. Pheelz’s delivery, casual yet catchy, complemented BNXN’s refined melodic vocals, creating a track that was both club-ready and deeply relatable.
Topping Charts and Crossing Borders
“Finesse” didn’t just dominate the Nigerian charts—it quickly leapt onto the global stage. Within weeks of its release, the song charted in multiple countries and debuted on the UK Afrobeats Singles Chart, where it peaked at No. 1. It also entered the Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs Chart, signaling that American audiences were equally enchanted by its groove.
The track trended across Apple Music and Spotify playlists in the U.S., Canada, the UK, and several African countries. By April, it had amassed millions of streams and earned spots on global editorial playlists such as Spotify’s African Heat, Apple’s Africa Rising, and TikTok’s Viral 50.
This rapid ascent marked a significant milestone for Pheelz—he had joined the league of Afrobeats acts breaking through international barriers without compromising their sound or message.
Performances, Appearances, and Global Buzz
As “Finesse” continued to soar, Pheelz capitalized on the moment. He began appearing at high-profile events, including the Essence Festival of Culture in New Orleans and Afro Nation Portugal, performing alongside Afrobeats heavyweights and exposing new audiences to his dynamic artistry.
Media outlets such as Rolling Stone, The Fader, Complex, and Billboard profiled him as one of the breakout stars to watch. In interviews, Pheelz spoke passionately about his artistic evolution, his decision to transition from producing to performing, and his desire to bring a new dimension to Nigerian music.
He didn’t just perform the song; he embodied it—with charisma, energy, and authenticity.
The BNXN Factor
Though Pheelz crafted the beat and handled the main hook, the inclusion of BNXN proved strategic and essential. BNXN, who had already cemented his reputation as a hitmaker through collaborations with Wizkid, Timaya, and Ladipoe, added lyrical finesse and a vocal depth that elevated the track to international standards.
Their synergy felt effortless. BNXN’s velvety tone and introspective delivery contrasted perfectly with Pheelz’s laid-back swagger, creating a sound that appealed across age groups and continents.
In many ways, the song also boosted BNXN’s global profile, making it a career-defining moment for both artists.
Cultural Impact and Social Currency
“Finesse” didn’t just rule playlists—it became a cultural moment. Across campuses, urban centers, and digital spaces, the phrase “If I broke, na my business” became a rallying cry for self-expression. It captured the ethos of Nigerian youth culture: confident, bold, and unapologetically ambitious.
Influencers, dancers, comedians, and content creators used the track to amplify their messages, driving even more awareness. From Lagos to London, the song inspired fashion, memes, parodies, and even political satire. It became more than a song—it became a lifestyle statement.
Even brands jumped on the wave. Fashion labels, beverage companies, and fintech startups began incorporating “Finesse” references into marketing campaigns, further extending its cultural reach.
Cementing a New Career Chapter
With “Finesse,” Pheelz proved that his talents extended far beyond the production booth. He could perform, captivate, and create music with both mass appeal and artistic integrity. The song served as his passport to a new phase of his career—one where he commands the stage as confidently as he once commanded the studio.
Since the song’s release, he has dropped follow-up singles like “Electricity” featuring Davido, confirming that he’s not a one-hit wonder but a legitimate musical force evolving before our eyes.
Looking Forward: The Global Vision
As the Afrobeats genre continues to expand globally, Pheelz stands poised to become one of its defining figures—not only as a creator but as a performer. With “Finesse” as his breakout moment, he now carries the weight of expectation, but also the tools and talent to deliver.
In an industry where transitions from behind-the-scenes roles to front-line stardom can be tricky, Pheelz has executed the move seamlessly. His journey is a blueprint for the next generation of producers hoping to tell their own stories—not just through beats but through their own voices.
