You have been shuttling between abroad and Nigeria with music performance lately. What’s the acceptance like outside the shores of the country?
I thank God for the privilege and strength to go from one place to another promoting my music. I want to appreciate my fans for their support. It has been a busy and fulfilled year for me. I started with a tour of America in March. I later went to Umrah. Recently, I was invited to perform in America again, but I had to return days after, because I had an important appointment in Nigeria. I have also taken my music to some parts of the African countries as I just returned from Cotonou. Above all, I am happy about how things are turning out for my career and I have my fans to thank.
It is believed that artistes who claim to be touring Europe always have ulterior motives, is this true?
I don’t think so but I can only speak for myself. My motive is to entertain and associate with my fans abroad. I take my music abroad and that is the only thing I concentrate on whenever I visit. I am very disciplined and I take my career seriously.
How do you feel now with the level you have attained with music?
I am not there yet, because I still have a lot to deliver. I am thankful to God for the level I have attained today. It is a thing of joy to be where I am today. I guess this is why some eminent people are currently writing a book about me, which will be launched as part of the activities marking my 35 years on stage.
Can you recall how your journey into music started?
I inherited music from my maternal family because they were lovers of the famous Apala song because my mum was a musician. I actually started singing when I was in Form Two; I had a skeletal band when I was in Form One in 1981. My first show was in 1982, when I performed at my class teacher’s event. This later launched me as a professional musician. I started getting shows regularly. The rest is history.
You seem to have disassociated yourself from other Fuji musicians and the mainstream music. Why is this so?
That is not true. I have a cordial relationship with everyone who sings Fuji music. I am an active member of the Fuji Musicians Association of Nigeria (FUMAN) and I am interested in the progress of the association both in the state and the national level. I am aware of virtually all the happenings in our forum. My guess maybe is because I hardly talk. It is not as if I am trying to create class for my self. I am concerned about the business and activities of the industry than contributing to what may lead to distractions. I don’t see the industry as a platform to stage rivalry. Personally, I don’t have a rival; it is not ideal. I prefer to do my thing my way and I thank God for what I have achieved so far. I don’t like making trouble irrespective of how small it could be. I respect those I know are ahead of me and also keep mutual relationship with my mates and associates with younger ones. I believe that the idea of shunning rivalry in the industry or the fact that I have a similar pattern with Wasiu Ayinde (K1) may have made some people think that I am fresh in this field. The industry should be an avenue to promote unity and we are glad that it has been peaceful and witnessed tremendous growth. Hate actions and fighting will not make any artiste famous; instead we all need to be interested in the progress of one another and encourage whoever is taking after us.
What has given you an edge over your colleagues?
I don’t see myself as better than anyone. I only focus on my craft. I am aware that some of the recommendations from fans have rated us high, but I have never allowed this to get into my head. I appreciate them for accepting and embracing what God has given me. I thank the leaders of Fuji, especially the late Sikiru Ayinde Barrister for the his legacy, which many people like me are benefitting from. In fact, I was privileged to have shared the stage with him.
The Fuji circle appears to be enjoying some level of peace lately, what do you think is responsible for this?
This is what we have been praying for and we are happy about it. Crisis should have not even come up among us in the first place, because the industry is big for everyone to shine. I want to urge my colleagues to sustain this peace because we will all benefit from it.
How do you intend to celebrate your 35 years on stage?
The basis of the event is to thank God and appreciate all my fans for their support over the years. Plans have been concluded to host eminent personalities, dignitaries from all walks of life, fans and colleagues. As I said earlier, a book will also be launched on my behalf that day. The event will hold on October 8, at Havilah Event Center, Ogbomoso.
Can you share your experiences on the journey to stardom?
I had issues with managing my band at the beginning. You could understand what it will look like satisfying your band members as a struggling musician. Music equipment was also a challenge, but I thank God that I was able to acquire a complete equipment in 1990. Honestly, I have gone through a lot as a musician and I thank God. Now, my plan is to refine Fuji music and I will give my best to achieve this goal.
and then