Sound In Conversation with Sage Todz: “It’s Best to Just Be Normal About Things”

Sage Todz, a bilingual rapper from Wales, is using his platform to challenge traditional notions of masculinity and encourage young men to open up about their emotions. In a recent interview with Sound, the Welsh Government’s campaign for violence against women and girls, Todz discussed the complexities of modern relationships and the importance of positive male role models.

Todz, whose real name is Eretoda Ogunbanwo, highlights the struggles faced by young men in expressing their feelings. “It can be difficult to open up,” he admits, acknowledging the societal pressure associated with the endurance of pain. However, he emphasises the importance of breaking down these barriers.

“I got involved with the Sound campaign because instead of telling people to normalise things, it’s best to just be normal about things,” Todz says. “If someone sees someone they look up to talk about a subject, it can feel empowering or enabling to them.”

The rapper credits his strong male role models, particularly his father, with shaping his perspective on masculinity. “My dad is definitely a huge example of a great, great male role model, his discipline, strength of character and integrity are my core values, He is also my personal definition of “Sound As”– a term used in the Sound campaign to describe men who promote respect and positive behaviour towards women.

But positive influences extend beyond family. Todz believes having a reliable group of friends is crucial for emotional well-being. “There are potential barriers for men to talk, but if you have a good friendship group that you know you can trust, it omits those barriers,” he explains.

“It’s important to have a group of people that you can be open with, share your emotions, talk about deeper topics and feel accepted within that.”

He suggests that young men might feel more comfortable addressing their emotions through action-oriented solutions. “I work better with solutions rather than by speaking,” he admits. “If I am speaking about something, I’d rather have a solution rater than just talk about how I feel. I think a lot of young men feel that way and there’s not always a place to go for a practical solution.”

Therapy, in addition to fitness and a good diet are valuable resources that Todz recommends to strengthen young men’s mental health. “I have done counselling sessions, and it can help,” he shares. “I don’t think there’s a one-size-fits-all approach, you can try different approaches to see what works for you.”

Sage’s latest single, “Gone Seen Blocked (GSB),” explores the disposable nature of modern relationships. He further highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences to promote healthy behavior towards women. “I surround myself with like-minded people and I think there’s a wider conversation to have with your friends if you don’t morally agree with their views.”

Sage Todz’s story exemplifies Sound’s mission: creating a Wales where positive masculinity is the norm, and young men are empowered to challenge violence against women and girls. By opening up conversations about emotions and healthy relationships, Todz is paving the way for a more inclusive and respectful future.

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Written by Angel Joanne Okonkwo