There’s a feeling when you listen to Carlton Osonga, also known by the sassy moniker, Ice Zaddy. It’s not just the vibrantly colored hair, those audaciously long nails, or the striking makeup – it’s confidence personified. And in the world of Ice Zaddy, that confidence is the headline.
Raised under the wings of a family that breathed music, Carlton’s relationship with music was more complicated than most might imagine. His family saw a musical prodigy in him, but young Carlton, ever the rebel, wanted to make his mark on the silver screen. With dreams of acting filling his young mind, music felt like an imposition. But isn’t it poetic? At the age of 12, he gravitated back to where he began, finding solace in the piano keys, teaching himself, much like the self-starter he was raised to be. By 15, his father introduced him to the realms of beats and vocals, and the world got “Just once more” – the first glimpse into the artist’s soul.
Describing his music to a first-timer? Picture this: A symphony of “Bad Bitch Music” that serves as a clarion call for self-confidence, exuding an aura that urges you to be unapologetically yourself.
Drawing inspiration from powerhouses like Cardi B and Shirin David, not just for their palpable musical prowess but their fearless confidence and ambition, Carlton found his sound. This influence is evident in his music, where he liberates sounds that come from deep, intuitive studio sessions, a process he describes as “a lot from the gut.”
The Kick Ass Award 2022 was a turning point. Nominated for the best Lucerne song for “Raised a G'”, Carlton found validation and a sense of belonging to the Swiss music scene. This experience wasn’t just an accolade; it was a boost of faith in his artistry.
But today, let’s talk about the track making waves – “Tu Sabes”. An electric blend of hard-hitting drums, Carlton’s signature silky vocals, and high bouncy rhythms, the track and its accompanying video are setting digital platforms alight. Want a taste of this auditory treat? Check out the video.
But don’t just stop at “Tu Sabes”. Carlton, ever the prolific artist, hints at more bangers dropping throughout the year. For those longing for a live experience, mark your calendars for October when he graces the stage at the Echolot Festival.
The beauty of Carlton Osonga’s journey is its authenticity. His music, his persona, and his drive all speak of a young man’s journey to find himself and, in the process, give his audience the confidence to find themselves. There’s a lesson to be taken from his story: Haters will hate, but as Carlton proves, with enough confidence and the spirit to “do what you want, how you want, no matter what,” the world is but a stage waiting for your performance.
To stay updated with Carlton’s vibrant journey and releases, you can find him setting trends on Tiktok, sharing thoughts on Twitter, showcasing his art on YouTube, and capturing moments on Instagram. After all, in the world of music and confidence, Carlton Osonga, aka Ice Zaddy, is the name you should be streaming.
