I’m at home with Nollywood and music — Yannick Philippe

Yannick Philppe Iwuegbe, popularly known as Yannick Philippe, is a Nigerian-United Kingdom-based budding music act, who began his career in music about five years ago. Yannick also has bagged a Diploma in Film-Making in Paris and London featuring in the movie, Invisible Men. This invariably qualifies him as an aspiring role interpreter. In this chat with NEWTON-RAY UKWUOMA, he reveals his plans for the two industries among other things. Excerpts:

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You have a Diploma in Film-Making. Why aren’t you in the movie industry?

Yes, I have a Higher Diploma in film-making and acting in TV/Film in Paris and London. I also love movies and always loved seeing our Nigerian and American actors on screen.I choose music because it got to me first. Some great Nigerian acts back in the days of my growing up were very instrumental to my love for music. I listened to people like Terry ThaRapman, Mode 9, 2Baba and Asa while growing up and it was from them that my love for music started. And I am very grateful that 2Baba is still on the groove till today. But the movie was my way of learning how to express myself, and, of course, all my education will definitely help my music career.

Have you featured in any movie?

Yes, in a movie called, ‘Invisible Me’ in which I was the lead actor and it got nominated at the British Film Festival and picked up by Channel 4 London. I love the camera ever since I went to film school and I also studied Acting for TV and Film.

Would you be hobnobbing with Nollywood while still doing music?

Yes, I intend to shoot my own movie and work with a couple of Nigerian actors as well.

Are you currently in a romantic relationship?

Yes, I am currently in a relationship with a girl and she is not in the industry. I personally don’t like to have children outside marriage and I don’t currently have a baby mama.

Does it mean you will be settling down soon?

No, not yet. I just want to establish myself and create a brand in this very competitive industry.

Why haven’t you featured 2Baba yet?

I am definitely working on it, trust me. But at the moment, I have had a collabo with Terry ThaRapman and Pherow. I’m already planning to work with Mode9 on a new single which I believe it’s going to be a big hit.

Do you have a crush on any entertainer?

Yes, I do have a serious crush on Genevieve Nnaji.

Between Rita Dominic, Genevieve and Ebube Nwagbo, who would you rather love to marry?  

It would be Genevieve definitely.

Are you in support of same-sex marriage?

No, I am not in support of same sex marriage, but it’s not my business what people do in their private spaces.

What are the challenges you’ve faced as an upcoming act?

If you are not popular yet, no one wants to know you until you ‘blow’. Too many free shows to expose yourself and it’s not easy at all.

Do you have any projection about your music career?

Yes. I see myself doing more collaborations and dropping more videos, singles and establishing a brand for myself. I see the recognitions and the Grammies. I see so many great stuffs ahead.

What are you currently working on?

I’m currently working on an EP of six songs and I will be getting collabo on it.

How would you describe your own style of music?

I basically do hip-hop. You know, with rap and so much of pop infusion. I also think that I can be cool with any vibe. Great vibes are important to my music; that is why I always love to have Asa and 2Baba’s songs around me. They really inspire me. I grew up listening to rap music like Tupac, Snoopdog and more. So, I got used to it. I have been in the industry for about five years now dropping singles and shooting videos.

Are you under any label or management?

Yes. I started my own record label, Yannick Philippe Music Group, the moment I was certain music was my thing and we have been running it solo for now, just me. My manager takes care of my branding and other management duties. I just want to do my thing.

If you have a better offer by an established record label, would you consider leaving your label?

Well, it is a good thing to get sponsors and all, but I am working on my label for now. But if I get a good offer, I might jump at it. It all depends on the offer. I just want to establish my brand before making moves.

Have you performed on same stage with any of the people that inspire you?

Yes, I have been on same stage with ChuddyK ,Samklef , Terry ThaRapman and Pherow. It was indeed a good outing. Personally, I have performed in Lockside Camden, London. I have performed at Afrobeat Sunday, in One Mic Kingston and Pierone Night Club in London.

Any plans to dabble into Afrobeats?

Yes, I have always loved Afropop right from my early days so I would, maybe with Small Doctor. It depends because I love his songs.

When do you intend to drop your next album?

Before the end of 2018.

Would you say you were born with a silver spoon?

No. Just want to survive. I wasn’t even born with a bronze spoon.

Can you compare life in Nigeria and UK?

Yes, it’s very different especially when it comes to security, power supply , human rights, educational standards and love. But Naija still rocks.

Are you based in Lagos now?

I’m based in Lagos and United Kingdom. I’m always travelling back and forth.

Are your parents fully in support of your music career?

Yes. They are my biggest fans. My dad and mom have always been in full support.

Where are you from?

I’m from Imo State. I grew up in Lagos and Paris.

Back there in the UK, how have they accepted your kind of music?  

Yes, they have accepted African music which is good because back then, no one wanted to hear African music. Now things have changed tremendously. Our songs are played in public places like malls and stalls. It is a good thing really.

Can you list some of the songs you have done?

Yes , Gini with Terry ThaRapman , make U Rap , Show dem , sister Rebecca, call me by six , African baby  and swag on fire was my first ever single