I don’t release albums to make money —Solagbade Olaonipekun

One of Nigeria’s fast-rising gospel musicians, Solagbade Olaonipekun is not resting on her oars despite the success trailing her music career. With more than four albums to her name, she believes in doing more. She speaks with SEGUN ADEBAYO on why she’s dropping another album this year and how God has been using her songs to herald change across the world.

You have been raising your game in the gospel music industry in the last five years, many people wonder how you have been getting things right?

The simple answer to your question is God’s grace. I didn’t start this ministry without God’s plan. It was His plan for my life to reach millions of people across the world through my music. So, the success we have recorded in the last five years came as a result of sheer hard work and grace of God.

How do you feel about the level of your success?

I feel great. I am thankful to God. I know it would not have been easy if God was not involved. God is the pillar of my success.

How much influence do you think gospel songs have made in changing lives over the years, especially youths?

It is has done a lot, through the increase in moral decadence is affecting our society at large. However I believe our persistence will yield better results. It’s only a matter of time. We know that things are getting bad, but we will not stop reaching out to youths and to shun vices that can derail their journey in life. Gospel music is one of the tools that will change their hearts. They are gradually returning to God. Just watch out.

You are releasing another album this year even when the last one from you is still enjoying airplays; why that decision?

These songs are a gift from God and as much as He keeps blessing me with it. I will keep blessing His people with it. I don’t have to keep the songs since the inspiration to sing comes from the Holy Spirit. I am always excited when I hit the studio to record songs that would lift people’s souls and help them overcome their challenges. Life is full of obstacles and challenges, as a gospel singer, it is my duty to use my songs to encourage the people and give them hope in Christ Jesus.

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So  you are not dropping these albums for monetary benefits?

Well, I spent  a lot of money to produce the albums from the studio work to printing and other costs. However, that is not my drive. Music is not what one jumps into because of the possible monetary gains. This is because such gain only comes after a lot of inputs. I desire benefit too, but it’s not my drive.

What drives me most is the positive feedback that I get from millions of people who keep telling me that they are touched by my songs. I don’t think there is any greater feeling for me.

You keep churning out albums but a large parentage of the society is not favourably disposed to gospel songs, how does this make you feel?

I feel like I keep building houses and buying properties for people to enjoy. I will be remembered for these great works.

I am not discouraged for whatever reason because I am certain that millions of people around the world are feeling the impact of my songs. It is true that some people don’t like gospel songs because they think they are too strict and the messages could be punchy. But that will not deter us from always seeking to put the gospel of Jesus out there through music ministrations.

How do you raise resources to keep releasing albums every year?

All the albums have all been very profitable. However, I have others sources of income. God has a way of rewarding one’s work through different sources. Sometimes, you may think your reward would come from the proceeds of the music, but God always has a different plan for one. It is better one puts his or her focus on God, and not men or proceeds that may or may not come from the album sales.

You are said to have completed a new album, why do you think it will worth people’s anticipation?

The new album is unique and loaded.  God has never disappointed me. He will always come through for us. People should just wait to see what we have been working on. It is almost out. The wait is over and the album will be great.

What do you intend to achieve with it and how do you rate your success  in the game?

My intention is to continue to lead people to God through soul-lifting songs. The title came up due to a song God gave me another about. The common song, Eyo. God said He is the King not Eyo and He cares for all is creation and instruct us to stop bowing to idols

How would you describe your music career over the years; do you think you have done enough to be where you are today?

Well, I will say we were not where we used to be. We are on the move, heading to a glorious destination. Enough, there are always opportunities to do more and that is why we doing this.

The title came up due to a song God gave me another interpretation about. The common song Eyo. God said He is the King not Eyo and He cares for all is creation and instruct us to stop bowing to idols.