Like or loathe him, Kokomaster, D’banj does not fall short of words when it matter is most. He has crossed many hurdles since he stormed the music industry a decade ago and has remained unruffled. Little wonder he comes out in his best element each time he rolls out new projects. A few years back, when the defunct Mo’Hits group that had Don Jazzy, Dr Sid, Wande Coal and D’Prince broke up, critics were quick to write off the father of one, but the singer turned the table, relaunched himself and left many in awe of his transoformation. Few weeks after dropping his much anticipated album, Kingdoncome, many people have continued to applaud him for a good job. Recently, he was in the mood to entertain questions regarding the album , and in a series of tweets in response to questions thrown at him, Bangalee as he’s fondly called addressed varying issues about his music career and how he has managed to stay on top of his game for over a decade. SEGUN ADEBAYO, who joined the session brings excerpts of the interaction.
Nothing seems to be stopping you, how do you manage to still deliver?
Nothing is impossible, we are just too scared to try. You are an incredible gift to the world if only you stop complaining and start doing.Art is not for the Myopic.Creativity has no handbook and music is a global language of the soul meant for seven billion people. That’s a very big reason for one to be driven by creativity.
What’s the function of DKM, D’cream records, DB records. Are they separate entities?
DKM is the mother ship. Dbanj Records is now D’Cream Records.
Is there any job opportunity at DB records for the youth?
Plenty of work on ground. Too much vacancy is here as long as you can work.
When are you bringing Kokoconcert back we have miss it, many people have been asking for the second season?
The biggest one ever is coming. I promise no Israelite trekking this time.
Is Kingdon come your last album?
I thought I told you that we won’t stop. Ten years from now we would still be on top. I still hear people tell me they never thought D’banj could make me this happy again.That statement alone is enough motivation for me. I am going to be here for another 10 years by the grace of God.
What inspired the album title?
My life.
Are you interested in going into acting in the future either Nollywood or Hollywood someday?
So you don’t know sey I be actor? You never watch my series?
How do you convince investors to invest in your projects?
You want me to reveal that? Trade secret.
Do you attend church service abroad?
Church is everywhere. Even online.
Tell us one book or movie you’ve read/seen that you wish you could share with younger ones?
That should be The Founder. It remains a great movie as far as I know.
How did you choose music, despite your father’s career? Weren’t you afraid of him?
Don’t get it twisted. Music chose me.
For you, what’s the secret to success?
More than anything, perseverance is key.
Does Cream platform also help those outside the entertainment industry?
Cream supports entrepreneurs too. Many people have won millions in the last one year. Don’t dull.
What inspired you most in the music industry?
I am inspired by everyone and everything.
Why is Oliver Twist in your new album?
Oliver Twist was never on an ‘album’ bro…we are just getting started.
Who is your wife and when did you get married?
Google already has that fact. No point dissipating energy on that.
How do you handle the fame and fans music brings to you constantly?
There is nothing to handle. We are together… (laughs)
At your age, you still look dapper and top charts even till now…
Age is just a number. I will say thank you Jesus
What is your favorite song in the album ?
That’s a very hard one because every song on the album took soul and they all represent different points in my life that anyone can relate to.
A lot of young and talented Nigerians have expressed their interest to join the Creamplatform, what would can they do to enable get signed under your record label?
They should go to Cream platform.
Who is your favourite artiste in Nigeria and why do you like the person?
Favorite artiste is Bangalee, but I love everyone putting in the work. We are a bunch of talented lots
What’s your greatest achievement so far?
Building my brand.
How many artiste have you signed so far to your record label?
Cream platform has over 15,000 artistes. (laughs)… I don’t need to sign. Cream Records’ is about to distribute for all of them.
What do you have in stock for your fans in the new album?
Everything good and great.
How do you cope with the torrents of challenges that you encounter as an entrepreneur and musician?
For me, I always tell young people that challenges should always be their fuel, critics your drive and nay sayers your turf. Your success is determined by how much you deprived yourself of frivolities. Never let anyone talk you out of your dreams
At this point in your career, what do you stand for?
I just stand for visible hope for every young boy and girl thinking of how to succeed. Trust me, you can do whatever you want.
What do you think about the sounds coming out of Africa these days?
I’m really proud of what our African sound is evolving to. We have so many African youths ready to make a change, given the opportunity. They are creating content, which is the new crude oil, so refine it properly. I believe that Africans are embodied with all it takes to solve our problems. We are too blessed.
Do you see yourself as a legend already?
Legend, me? No. I’m a young man making money in my sleep and trying to do great in life, while caring for and loving my family.
Are you still under Kanye’s record label?
No.
Are you ever going to do Koko Mansion again?
Yes.
As an artiste, what song do you listen to that psyches you up and makes you feel stronger?
All songs.
and then