Upcoming musician, Oluwadamilare Ojetayo, speaks with HAKEEM GBADAMOSI on his plans to join the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, in promoting Yoruba culture as he officially rebrands as Ojaja.
WHAT inspired your rebranding as Ojaja, the new face of Ooni of Ife?
As a culturally inclined person, unapologetic Yoruba-centric performer, the inspiration and thirst for the cultural renaissance and rebirth of undiluted Yoruba culture motivated my research. As a proud Yoruba artiste, the only way I think I can help Yoruba cultural rebirth is to use my talent in the reawakening campaign .The source of all Yoruba people is Ile Ife and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ojaja is passionate about the unity and culture of the Yoruba race, he has played his role as a globally recognized peace ambassador.
His actions and benevolence inspired me, so I decided to use my face to promote him as Ojaja in the entertainment world. Apart from this, I also have roots in Ile Ife; I’m also from Afolu Oje family ruling quarter who are known as promoters of culture. So, it is like you are promoting your family by re-branding as the face of Ojaja.
I’m dedicating my next album to the Ooni’s unmatched achievements in preaching peace, progress, culture and unity among all Obas and people of the Yoruba nation. I am identifying with his vision, mission and goal. I am branding and I am joining him in preaching peace and unity and also emulating his humility.
Is it your rebranding project that has made you less active musically?
Apart from the rebranding project, I am an agriculturist and my attempt to fulfil certain professional dictates took me off a bit. I’m perfecting my new deal with Loyalty Empire Records. I also took time off to perfect work on my new album; I just officially dropped a new single featuring Jumabee, entitled Iyanu Asele, meaning miracle must happen which is a track from the album.
What should your fans from the newly rebranded Ojaja in due course?
There are many things; I’m an ideological and multi-talented performer, who has a lot of surprises in the kitty.
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