Ben Ogbeiwi is a popular entertainment figure who is also one of the most vocal coaches on the mtn Project Fame reality singing competition. In an interview with Rotimi Ige, he speaks about his background, passions and purpose in entertainment. Excerpts
Please tell us a bit about your background and early memories of family life.
I am the third male child amongst seven kids from my parents, both from Edo State. We were raised in Lagos and we all lived a very quiet but fulfilling life when we were kids.
As a youngster, I started in St Dominic’s Catholic Church Yaba the organist Demola Olota felt we needed a group that could serve as a great example for choral music, I was also a part of the Chordwebs (Dare Art-Aade, David Bebiem, Nnamdi Amadi, Kehinde Iwatuje and I). My break came into light when I met the late Elder Steve Rhodes and also His Royal Highness Igwe (Professor) Laz Ekwueme.
When did you develop a penchant for the arts?
The arts were a part of me when I joined the choir and even when I was in school, I came back to Lagos for gigs and events. School and the arts grew alongside each other all through.
You were also actively involved in sports, especially at the secondary and university levels, why did you not pursue a career in this field?
I only played football for pleasure in my school days, but music was on the front burner all through these periods.
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Do you see yourself as a sports administrator, perhaps in the future?
No! Not at all: I just picked up interest watching the sport and other forms of sports a few years ago…
You are a music coach on the very popular Project Fame Reality Show. How has been your experience over the years?
I would say it has been smooth sailing and considering the talents that have been released over the years when it took centre stage, it’s a reflection of how talented our nation is and the educational impact it has released globally.
Your no-nonsense persona has earned you another name in the industry. Your reaction? Would you do anything differently?
Haha! That’s actually who I am when I teach music; I’m an entirely different individual when I’m not teaching…Suffice to say, the persona is to get you ready for an industry that takes no prisoners when you don’t educate and upgrade your skills.
Please rate the Nigerian music industry at the moment.
We are at the top of the shelf, thanks to individual talents and artistes who have moved us up with hit songs and great concert performance skills…
What, in your opinion, are those things missing?
The infrastructure that will reward everyone in the industry (pre to post production); and more local content in terms of musicals to empower the performing arts (stage and live shows).
How do you relax?
I watch television, listen to music and get enough sleep… The arts can be very tasking.
Your most challenging moments on the MTN Project Fame?
Audition stages where we have to choose amongst thousands of talents. The anguish of them having to wait their turns to perform and consequently buckle under pressure.
Your philosophy in life?
To help others succeed in their endeavors, aid them in rising to their potential, grow a very stable arts industry and make Nigeria great again.