Tim Salau, better known as Mr. FoW, is a Nigerian-American neo-contemporary artist on a mission to bring depth and complexity to hip-hop and R&B. From his thought-provoking lyrics to his unique sonic blends, he’s pushing boundaries and challenging what music can be.
With the release of his newest single, “mDNA (feat. Duchess),” Mr. FoW continues to solidify his unique voice in the music scene, promising an experience that goes far deeper than a catchy tune.
Recently, we had a candid conversation with Mr. FoW where we discussed his unique artistry, the inspirations behind his new single, and his unwavering belief in the transformative power of music. Buckle up and keep reading—this conversation is guaranteed to make you think, feel, and maybe even discover a new favorite track.
Q: Welcome, Mr. FoW! By now, your name needs no introduction for many in the music world. But for those who are just discovering your unique sound, let’s start with the basics: Who is Mr. FoW?
Mr. FoW: Thanks for having me! Well, I’m Tim Salau, a Nigerian-Americana, Neo-Contemporary artist. My stage name, Mr. FoW, stands for ‘Mr. Future of Work.’ I’m all about crafting music with depth and complexity, blending hip-hop and R&B influences with a whole lot more.
Q: Did your Nigerian-American roots influence your artistic path?
Mr. FoW: 100%. I was born into a family that valued music and culture. Singing in the church choir, exploring theater as a kid—those experiences lit a fire in me. You hear the influence of Afrobeat in some of my tracks, alongside classic hip-hop elements.
But it goes deeper than just the sound—there’s a certain audacity, a boldness, that comes from my Nigerian heritage, and that fuels everything I make. It’s about not fitting into a neat category, and always striving for something fresh and authentic.
Q: Before becoming Mr. FoW did you pursue any other interests?
Mr. FoW: Definitely. Before diving wholeheartedly into music, I was incredibly fascinated by psychology and the way the human mind works. That curiosity naturally extended to human behavior, how we interact with and are influenced by the world around us.
Apart from that, technology has always held a special place in my heart as well—I’m a bit of a tech geek! I love understanding how machines work, the potential of software, and even things like architecture and how design can shape how we feel and experience spaces. All those interests continue to influence my music, from how I approach songwriting to the kinds of sounds and concepts I like to experiment with.
Q: Your creative process seems incredibly multifaceted. You’re an artist, but also an author, a speaker, an investor… How do these different worlds feed into each other, and does your musical output ever feel like just one piece of a larger puzzle?
Mr. FoW: You’re right, everything I do is interconnected. I don’t believe in compartmentalizing creativity. Music, writing, speaking—it’s all about telling stories, sparking ideas, and making connections. So, yes, my music is one piece of a larger puzzle, a way to reach people on an emotional level, while the other aspects of my work focus on the intellectual and practical side of change.
Q: Who inspires you and how does that admiration manifest in your own work?
Mr. FoW: My inspiration comes from a wide range of sources. Of course, I’m a huge fan of hip-hop and R&B legends, but also artists like Mahalia and Tyler, the Creator who blur genre lines fearlessly. Their willingness to experiment, to push boundaries, that’s the energy I strive for in my own music.
Q: Talking about music, you dropped a new bang, please tell us more about “mDNA” ft. Duchess!
Mr. FoW: “mDNA” is definitely a special one. When I say it “hits diffy,” I mean it’s got that certain energy that just sets it apart. It’s designed to be an experience—the kind of song that takes you on a journey, whether you’re vibing on a late-night drive or just needing a soundtrack for some deep thinking. It’s got those soulful melodies, introspective lyrics, and a beat that’ll get under your skin.
And working with Duchess? Incredible! She’s crazy talented, and her voice adds this whole other dimension to the first half of the track. I’m really proud of how the duet came together. But I gotta warn you, the second half of the song has its own unique flavor too. It’s the kind of thing people will still be analyzing and debating years from now.
Honestly, I think “mDNA” is the kind of track we need right now. With all the chaos in the world, it’s music like this that has the power to uplift and connect people. I hope “Da members” feel that, and I’m excited for new listeners to find it too.
Q: Can you tell us more about that special community and how people can join in and discover your music?
Mr. FoW: Absolutely! “Da members” are more than just fans – they’re the people who get what I’m trying to do with my music. They’re the dreamers, the go-getters, those who crave something more than just the typical party track. They’re a family, building and supporting each other. If that resonates with you, you’re already a member in spirit!
As for finding my music, I’m on all the major platforms—Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, Tidal… But the best way to really connect is to follow me on Instagram. That’s where we get into deeper conversations and where I’ll be dropping exclusive stuff for “Da members.”
Wrap-Up!
With that said, we invite you to become a part of his journey. Also, if this conversation has ignited your curiosity, be sure to dive into his earlier albums like “Bush Boi,” “Tech Boi,” and “DaMaia JOSEPH.” Each one offers a unique window into the evolution of this multifaceted artist. Lastly, Mr. FoW is truly a force to be reckoned with, and we can’t wait to see what he does next!
