How I became famous with Shaku Shaku —Slimcase

Oluwafemi Oke-Eko, popularly know as Slimcase, whose song Oshozondi is currently rocking the airwaves speaks with SEYI SOKOYA, on his music career and his rise to fame. Excerpts:

You are one of the artistes rocking the music industry at the moment. How do you feel about this?

This is a dream come true for me, and I thank God for the breakthrough. In fact, the whole experience is beyond what I can comprehend. God is the reason behind all I have been able to achieve regardless of my hard work to carve a niche for myself in the industry. I feel this is God’s appointed time for me to shine. I am not relaxing or going to give room for distraction. I am seriously working on songs that will cut across all borders. My works will not be limited to the street alone; they will also be what the elite can relate with.

Would you say you have achieved your goal in the industry?

I have not achieved my goal at all, but I am close to it, because my dream is to be one of the super stars in the industry. I am really working hard to achieve my desired goal. A lot of projects are in the pipeline; part of it is a collaboration with one of the A-list artistes in the industry, Wizkid. He featured me in Gucci Snake and this could be described as one of my biggest dreams to have come true. I am excited with this development and I see this as a rare privilege. I appreciate the Star Boy for his large heart.

Would you say the turning-point for you was sudden?

I don’t think so. I have been around for a while, and I have been struggling to have my way in the industry. So, I have paid my dues to make a headway. In fact, I have faced some challenges in life and in my career, but I thank God that they have all become history. Some friends turned enemies, but the story has now changed for good and new friends are popping up.

Could you shed more light  on what informed your decision to adopt the raving dance step tagged: Shaku Shaku?

I think the street came up with the step, because they found my song to be perfect for the dance. It has been around for a while in the streets, but nobody paid attention to it or knew how to tap into a sound for the dance until I dropped Oshozondi. It created a standard for them, which showed that this sound really goes with the dance. It made me prominent. I didn’t create the dance; my song created a platform for the dance.

Would you say this also paved the way for your connection with ace musician, D’banj?

D’banj is an amazing person and a very supportive personality. The experience is worth it and a great one. As I said earlier, my time has come, and all things are now working for good. I think this is how fortune works. I would not have been part of the collaboration he did with Mr Real. Actually, he (D’banj) had a recording session with Mr Real, when I was with Mr Real. D’banj came in and the whole thing sparkled.

•  Fear of poverty made me think out of box —D’banj

Some have claimed that you hijacked Shaku Shaku from Olamide. How will you react to this?

The word hijack is not correct. Olamide is best at what he is doing and I am living by grace to be better than my yesterday, as well. I’m not the originator of Shaku Shaku; it is a vibe that came from the street and I keyed into it. I appreciate the fact that I am from the street and I am glad that I am able to connect with the street through my passion, because this is where I derive my joy.

There are misconception about the real meanings of rampant slangs used by artistes these days. What really is Shaku Shaku?

It is a name of a dance, which was initially described as jaku jaku. It is a kind of dance vibe on the street. It is an irregular dance step and body movement.

How many songs do you have to your credit?

Mr Dickson, Oh Baby Ringtone, Majeomo, Oshozondi. I also featured in some songs such as Shepeteri, by Idowest; Issa Banger, by D’banj; Shempe, by DJ Xclusive; Diet, by DJ enimoney.

How have you been able to raise the bar in the industry?

It is a known fact that the industry is now very competitive. So, it requires a lot of work and commitment to remain focused and famous in the industry.

What are your major challenges?

One of my major challenges is in the area of finance. Another challenge is how to manage some friends that are against one, but God has been giving wisdom to handle that area without any hitch.

What would you have preferred if not music?

I would have become an actor if I had not ventured into music because I love acting to a fault.

Do you feel threatened among the male artistes as budding star?

I think it is the other way round. I seem to be a threat to some people now, because some have claimed that I am moving on a fast pace; that I need to calm down.

Where would you like to see yourself in the next five years?

My greatest dream is to seat with Oprah Winfrey.