What I think of Asa —Aramide

Awarding-winning soul musician, Aramide Sarumoh, popularly known as Aramide, is one of the sought-after Nigerian female singers. In this interview with SEYI SOKOYA, the guitarist speaks about her new project and shares the secret of her slim figure. Excerpts:

You have remained a star in the industry. How have you been able to achieve the feat?

I’ll say consistency is the key. I try as much as possible to put out very good contents that can stand the test of time. I don’t compete with anyone. I stay on my lane, remain focused and work very hard at improving myself, and being better is always the first thing for me. I had the opportunity to go on a tour to showcase my last album. So, it has been a blessing to always be recognised.

It seems people appreciate hip hop than other genres of music today. Don’t you see this as a major threat to soul music?

Pop is popular music, so soul music or RnB can also become popular. Most people think Soul music means slow music, but that’s not true. My music is soulful, but not necessarily slow, if you understand what I mean. I think people appreciate all genres of music, depending on the type you are exposed to.

What is the secret of your steady rise in the game?

Honestly, there’s no secret. I just work hard and I always want to gain and win new fans over. Staying in touch with new trends and sound is also key for me.

What have you been up to lately, and what is your plan for the year?

I have a lot to fish out this year. It’s going to be an amazing year. I’m so pumped up. I have a new song I’m dropping tomorrow, and I’m so excited about it. It is my first single this year and it was recorded in Jos, where it all started. This is just the beginning of the many surprises for the year. I’m working on several projects that I’ll be sharing with everyone as time goes on.

The industry is becoming interesting and at the same time competitive by the day. Do you feel threatened by stars?

Yes, the industry is competitive and interesting. That is how it is with other careers and professions, but I don’t feel threatened by anyone. I’m a very hard working person and what matters to me, more than anything, is to stay focused. There is no time to be distracted by things that don’t add to me. As I said earlier, I stay in my lane and pay attention to my craft and wish other people the best.

How would you rate yourself and what is your relationship like with other female musicians?

I’m doing well and I’m on the path to greatness. I have a cordial relationship with most of my female colleagues.

You have indeed proved many wrong, following the fears that marriage would ‘kill’ your music career. Instead, you became a household name. How have you been able to achieve a balance?

I don’t think this is different from other careers. In everything we do, we must always find a balance; and support is everything and I’m very lucky to have that.

Have you eventually met with one of your main female artistes you claimed inspired you, Asa, and what was the experience like?

I’m very inspired by Asa’s music. She paved the way for a lot of us. My meeting with her was a beautiful experience. I had the opportunity to ‘open’ for her at her last event in Lagos; Asa Encore, where she celebrated 10 years on stage.

You are a guitarist and a vocalist, which came first?

Singing came first, then guitar. As a musician, one has to be versatile. So, the experience has been awesome.

What would you have become if you had not taken to music?

If not music, maybe I would have ventured into fashion or acting or something that requires me to give a lot of myself.

Would you say you have reached your peak in the industry?

Not yet. I still have a lot of work to do and I know I’m on the right path. It has been a beautiful journey so far.

What is your assessment of the industry?

The music industry in Nigeria is growing very fast. Our music has crossed over to other parts of the world, putting us on the global map. But here in Nigeria, we need better structures and legislation that favour artistes.

How have you been able to maintain your slim figure?

I work out, eat right and sleep well.