‘Being a comedian goes beyond cracking jokes’

Rapindady is gradually becoming a household name among comedians and event comperes in South-West Nigeria. He is also the brains behind the comedy show ‘The Spartacus’ which is a gathering of the cream of comedians every year. He spoke to ROTIMI IGE recently about his upcoming event, turning 30, future projects, among others. 

In the last few years, you have risen to become one of the most sought after comedians/comperes in the South-West. How did it happen?

I give glory to God for how far he has helped me. I also give credit to the type of hustling spirit that I have because I have been on my feet right from my secondary school days back home in Akure, Ondo State. I don’t wait on anybody before I get to do what needs to be done especially when I know I can achieve it with extra effort. So, I will say my position in the comedy business today is a result of hard work, consistency and common sense.

Rate the comedy industry at the moment especially in Ibadan.

The comedy industry is the most lucrative industry under the entertainment canopy in Ibadan. Comedy is really growing and very soon it can become the strongest on the entertainment chain due to the high level of acceptability and branding that is going on everyday.

Comedians are doing well for themselves within and outside the city. In fact, comedy in Ibadan has been able to compete well with the comedy atmosphere in other parts of Nigeria including Lagos. We have been able to put Ibadan on the Nigerian entertainment map via our skits, comedy shows and excellent performance within and outside the city. By doing this, it has given our guys a good recognition even in other places within and outside Nigeria.

You are also an aspiring actor and have become a regular face on Instagram via your skits…what motivates you?

I have always loved to be on the screen from my very early days as a young child. I admire actors a lot especially the celebrities. I have always wanted to be like them. I started entertaining people as a stage actor back in Ondo State; then I formed a drama group that comprised of a few young and talented guys, but we had to stop when all of us got admission into one higher institution or the other.

Do you see a future in acting?

Definitely, it is very clear to me that I will go into acting very soon on a very professional level. I am only waiting for a signal from God. I don’t do things without his approval.

You also sing? Tell us about that.

I love music! In fact, music is my first passion, it is a gift that flows in my family. I have written over ten songs and have produced just two tracks the last of which is titled ‘Peperempe’ in which I featured Keanzo, a very good Afro pop artist. The song is doing well presently.

I feel more convenient doing music but I am yet to understand the business of music, as soon as I do, I will shock the world with my music.

You have an upcoming comedy event tagged ‘Spartacus’ now in its fifth year. How has it been over the years?

It is my biggest project of the year, an event that have put me in the spotlight consistently for five years.

It has not been easy planning this event especially without a financial sponsor but with determination and a strong focus on what can be achieved in the near future, we have to keep our head up and keep going.  This year’s edition is special because it going to be triple celebration for me as I am celebrating  fiveyears on stage as a comedian/MC, fifth edition of the concert it and my 30th birthday.  The event comes up this Sunday.

Word for upcoming comedy entrepreneurs?

Comedy is not like music, you can’t decide to be a comedian overnight because you see a friend doing well in comedy. It has to be in you. And there is time for everything. Work hard but don’t be too desperate. When it is your time to shine, nobody can stop you from shining. Just work and learn.

Challenges still faced by your brand/the comedy industry?

My major challenge is lack of sponsorship from corporate brands. Imagine how hard it is to stage an a class concert without a sponsor. We are still hopeful though. Like I said earlier, it is a matter of time. When the time comes, sponsors will run after us. This I believe strongly.

Tell us something not many know about you/

Most people don’t know that I am a stammerer and a very shy person.