Introducing Der Oscar Effekt: A musician on a personal journey, and a griot of sound
Der Oscar Effekt is one of Germany’s breakout artists, crafting smooth works of chilled Afro-fusion — though his work is more than just a label. With a deep respect for his lineage, his resilient music is an echo of identity and beyond.
Charged by a process and philosophy fused with rare linguistic and emotional fluidity, he invites listeners into a space where his sound is augmented by a spatial experience, amplified by an art only he can interpret.
Tell us about your new track “Fool” — what inspired it and how long did it take to craft?
“Fool” is a very personal record. I identify deeply with it because it comes from my own experience. Moving to a new country 13 years ago, studying in Germany, building a career, and balancing a 9-to-5 with my passion for music hasn’t always been easy. I’m the type of person who doesn’t really show struggle — I deal with it quietly.
Because of that, people often assume I’m always walking on the sunny side of life, not realizing how much work and perseverance go into keeping that smile. The song captures that duality — a guy who laughs a lot and seems carefree, yet carries a serious, professional heart. I was in the right headspace when it came together; it happened naturally within just a few hours.”
“three stone fireplace, vol 1” is a laid-back and intimate vibe. How do you see vol.2 evolving?
“three stone fireside, vol. 2 will stay true to the three stone fireside concept — warm and communal — but it will show a different side of me. Expect something more energetic and vibrant, music that makes you move. Unlike vol. 1, which I created entirely on my own, vol. 2 will feature collaborations.”
Your latest album feels like generational storytelling. How do you want to be remembered 20 years from now?
“I’d love to be remembered as someone who didn’t choose music but rather was chosen by music. I discovered my passion for music later in life, while already working full-time, and I’ve kept pursuing both paths with equal dedication. If anything, I hope my story inspires people to have the courage to pursue their passion and to be different. I embrace and embody this in my music. Moreover, I try to create music that stands the test of time, music that goes beyond mainstream and music that one can revisit after the noise has settled.”
If you had to record your next album at home, considering all the memories and sensory elements, which room would you use and why? It can’t be your own room.
“Definitely the living room. It was always the heart of the house — where we gathered, laughed, and created memories. That warmth and sense of togetherness fits perfectly with my creative energy. “
One family member must be there. Who is it?
“My brothers; David and Junior. We already make music together quite often, so I can totally picture us in the living room, vibing, and recording the next album.”
You move fluidly between a wide spectrum of languages. Does your approach to musical composition change, too?
“Absolutely. When you speak multiple languages, you naturally switch codes depending on mood or situation — and each language unlocks a different nuance of your personality. That comes through in my music. On a traditional beat, it feels more natural to sing in Pidgin English, then drift into French or standard English. Each shift brings a different emotion.
Who is your biggest influence outside of music?
“My Dad ”
You’re on your third album — what have you had to unlearn over the course of your career?
“I’ve had to unlearn control — to stop over-protecting the creative process. My music is personal, so at first I didn’t like too many opinions. But over time I realized that letting people in, hearing other perspectives, can bring growth.
Afrobeats is a global phenomenon. What sonic changes have you noticed, and has that influenced your sound?
“Firstly I‘m proud and appreciative of the global recognition afrobeat has achieved. I remember a decade ago, one could barely get access to music coming from Africa, today it’s everywhere. That visibility is beautiful, but it has also led to oversaturation — sometimes the depth and storytelling get lost, from my point of view. That’s why I try not to chase trends. I draw from my roots and work closely with Cameroonian and other African producers to build something authentic. The album three stone fireside, vol. 1 is filled with that — original beats, crafted to sound both modern and deeply rooted. ”
Which of your songs could you write a screenplay about?
“track 1 -“fool”: a story about a guy who smiles through his struggles; misunderstood for his calmness and kindness.
track 7 – “hot & cold”: a love story on the edge of ending; that painful in-between where you know it’s time to leave but your heart still holds on.
track 8 – “bad man into mumu”: the classic story of the “bad guy” who changes for the right person.”
What backstage rituals do you have?
“I’m always excited to get on stage. I am already hyped and vibing with my close circle, I say a little prayer then off we go. ”
What plans do you have for 2026?
“Continue promoting three stone fireside, vol.1, secure some live performance and finalise and release vol.2. The fire’s still burning. ”
What music secret are you keeping? Spill the tea!
“Self-belief and not being afraid to be different is essential — but having someone beside you who shares that belief and fuels your drive — that in itself is a secret weapon.”
Leave a Reply