I am a sucker for authentic African stories —Lord Breezi

Multi-talented singer and movie producer, Oluwatosin Adesanya, otherwise known as Lord Breezi, is an artiste poised to set a new standard in the industry. In this interview with SEYI SOKOYA, he speaks on his latest production and his goal for the industry.

 

How will you describe your sojourn into music?

Honestly, it has been tough and I see it as a long journey, but the acceptability and words of encouragement have made it easy for me. Most people might never understand it until they are knee deep in the murky waters of the Nigerian entertainment industry. However, it is a difficult, but achievable adventure, especially when people learn to stop expecting me to become a success overnight. For me, it is a gradual process. So far, I have released several projects, including the widely talked about cinema film, Omoye and my debut album Gbedu Buffet.

 

What is the concept behind Omoye?

A long time friend, Uchechukwu, approached me with the script and I loved it instantly. The message was compelling. So, he needed only a little push to get me to come onboard as an executive producer, as well as an investor through my company, We Push Content. Above all, I am glad with the recognition the project has garnered since its release.

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Firstly, it was nominated at the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TIFF) in 2018. Much later, it won the Best Nigerian Feature Film at the Realtime International Film Festival (RTF) 2018, and then won the Best African Film at the Slum Film Festival 2018 in Kenya. It was also nominated in five categories at the 22nd African Film Awards 2018 and won three awards. It was also selected at the Uganda Film Festival 2018, as well as the PAWA festival.

 

Are you not bothered that the production has not received any recommendation in Nigeria yet?

I am not surprised. The film was intended to highlight and speak against endemic domestic violence in Nigeria. Not many Nigerians will want to talk about it until a family member becomes a victim. We’ve done our part by drawing attention to it and also sensitising people to it. It is left for viewers to continue preaching the gospel.

 

Is this your first project?

Yes, this is my first film project as an executive producer and as an actor. Also, it will be the first time my song will be used as a sound theme. Nothing else has been this major. Aside helping with continuity for a short film: Brave by Lowladee in 2014, I do intend to periodically produce, assist and invest in more evergreen projects.

 

Can you narrate the creativity behind your debut album Gbedu Buffet?

Not everyone eats everything they see at a food buffet. So, my love for a particular sound might thrill you, while the ones you prefer might be a total bore to me. The selection process of songs for the album was tricky, so, I decided to just put out what I felt was the best and worst music I have recorded and allow fans to decide. In a way, Gbedu Buffet is an awesome array of local, folk-influenced sound and lyrical assortments. Freedom to express myself is a right I do cherish and as time goes on, fans will be able to figure out what genre I was born to promote.

 

How do you draw inspiration?

No matter how self-sufficient I seem to appear, I have always had help from friends and professionals in the studio. Though, I come up with beats and write most of my lyrics, I sometimes prefer to have certain people around me in the studio who can help, as well as check and balance certain lines, metaphors, rhythm and all that. Over the years, I have had help from my long time friend like, Joey Benks, Super Highbee, Teego, Pizzo, Mr Spice and my younger brother, Peter.

 

How would you rate acceptance of Nigerian films?

Considering the awards and recognitions Omoye and most Nigerian films have gotten overseas, I would say the acceptance is growing and can be better. Like many young people out there, I am a sucker for authentic African stories, but the Nigerian film industry lacks funding, as well as proper structure that can help young filmmakers show off their work without having to jump through hoops or bribe their way to recognition.

 

Any project you are working anytime soon?

I was supposed to drop the video of Ka Dupe few months ago, but it has been pushed. A new single and a couple of other videos have been pushed too. Also, my long time friend, Sean Dampte recently released The Awoodah Begins EP and since I am featured on the opening track Kriminal, it is only sensible and respectful that I let fans feel that before producing more sounds. A new single entitled Boogie will be released anytime soon. Also, I am currently working on an international project.