‘Enugbe gave me hope’

The story of Opeyemi seems to have changed over night, following the release of his popular track, Enugbe, which has become an anthem of sort on the lips of many Nigerians. The song mirrors the poor living condition of the people and the beggarly life most of them as been subjected to. In this interview conducted by SEGUN ADEBAYO, Opeyemi said the story of his life may have changed as a result of the song, warning that the journey for him has only just begun.

 

The song Enugbe has been the rave of the moment. What brought about the composition of the song?

Enugbe is a song that started as a hustle and finally became a testimony. The song is actually an experience. I was broke, point blank and I needed funds, nothing extra. It was at that point that the inspiration to compose the song dropped in my heart. It was at a point when I had nothing and I needed a change of fortune in my life. The song came at a time I needed a miracle. The song gave me hope and I was hoping that it would give hope to others who listen to it.

Insecurity may get out of control in Nigeria —British Govt

You released the song and it has become popular. What made the song special?

Well, fortunately and unfortunately, the song expressed the economic plight of Nigeria in a comical way. I guess it sold the song. It mirrored the poor state of things in the country and I am happy that it actually passed the message I wanted to pass across. The song is special because it expresses the plight of many Nigerians, who are going though some disturbing moments because of the bad condition of the economy. Everybody keeps chorusing the same song- I am broke. Everywhere you turn to, the same thing you hear is Engube, which literally means my mouth is dry-no money.

 

So you were truly broke? Was it about a personal experience?

Yes, it was a personal vibe. I needed and I still need money just like everyone needs money. Even the rich do not stop looking for money, that’s why they remain rich, so it is all about money, money and money! There is nothing outside the fact that money rules the world and I need it so much.

 

Looking at the rate at which the song is gathering momentum, how are you feeling now?

I must tell you that I feel blessed. This is about my first major interview since the song was released. I feel blessed. I know that it’s God’s doing. The acceptance of the song was fuelled by the fact that it reflected the state of things. Everybody is going through hard times. Right now, I feel like I am a recipient of grace. I’m thankful for the acceptance of the song. I am  thankful to everybody showing me love with the song. I have received calls from virtually every part of the country and even abroad. It is just a phase; we’ll surely survive and overcome this time.

 

But there were controversies over the original owner of the song. Some said it was Ibrahim Chatta and some other guys that own it. Is this true?

Hmm, yes, controversies are just parts of what dignifies human nature, Enugbe being controversial and all, I think it is meant to be. The various parties involved in the controversies are seamlessly giving me credits for the song on their social handles. I think that’s also a blessing. I am Opeyemi and I sang Enugbe. I’m happy, Nigerians are happy

 

Why are they laying claims to the song if it is not theirs?

Well, to be honest, I’m not sure they laid claims. I think it’s just a norm. It is bound to happen when voice and songs sound similar, the fans of the affected parties claim this and that. I think that was what happened. That’s my opinion, anyway. Mr Ibrahim Chatta and other artistes involved in the controversy have given me credit for my efforts, nothing beats that. Everybody loves the song and it is going viral. What more can I say? I just want to keep thanking God. I was glad to see Dr Yinka Ayefele’s hilarious Video he did to the song too. All I see around me now is just the blessing of God.

Where and when did you compose the song?

I composed the song on a Monday afternoon, after I came back from the bank requesting for my money to be reversed. My money had been debited in error and I needed it back, but it was not forthcoming. So, the song just came to my mind and we hit the studio. That was what led to the song. My brother, son of man was too broke that day.

 

How much has the song earned you in monetary terms?

Frankly speaking, in monetary terms, I have not had anything major. Nothing big has been coming, but I am certain that I will be fine. For me, the most important and amazing thing is how Nigerians accepted and reacted to the song. That Nigerians love the song is enough reason for me to be happy. The acceptance would bring the money. I am hopeful.

 

Did you know it will blow?

No. I never saw this coming,WW but I am grateful.

 

You are a producer and musician, how do you manage the two?

It’s definitely not easy. You will end up trying to balance your production duties with your singing career. But, in all though, we thank God.

 

How has life been treating you since you dropped the song?

Life’s good, it doesn’t have to be difficult, that’s my motto. I am approaching everyday as it comes now. It is a matter of time now before the story changes for life.