Mohammed Animashaun a.k.a Moelego is a popular name in the entertainment scene with a string of hit songs in Nigeria despite being based in the United Kingdom. ROTIMI IGE caught up with him recently to discuss his latest EP, among other things.
How have you been managing the lockdown with less shows and outdoor events?
I’ve just been trying to stay focused on other things that feed my soul. I have been writing, spending time with family, learning new things and creating plans.
Tell us more about your current project/EP.
This is the final piece of my trilogy, ‘Me’, ‘Myself’ and finally this new body of work that is ‘I’. It presents my vulnerability first hand. The EP is titled ‘I’ as it is an exploration of the versatile yet real Moelogo. For a while, I always put other people before myself but this EP is all about me. Also, people usually expect melancholic music from me but this time, I want my fans to feel my vulnerability, appreciation, happiness, freedom and relief.
What major influence would you identify as the basis for this new body of work?
My recent experiences, a lot of stuff happened in the past two years that I’m not just happy about but thankful. Experiences shape your life and singing is how I attack those battles. The project is inspired by the ups and downs of life.
How has it been living in the UK and coordinating your music in Nigeria?
It is tough if I’m being honest. Trying to balance both fan bases isn’t easy especially when you started from outside Nigeria. But with perseverance, interactions and having loyal supporters, you will make your mark. Just keep being you!
Afrobeats is very big in the UK and across the world now, how has this influenced your sound and where do you see Nigerian/African artistes on the global scene in a few years?
I was one of the first ‘UK Afrobeat’ pioneers. From when I started singing, I always kept my African background in anything I did. It’s what made me, me. I’m happy to see that now the global scene is catching up. There’s a lot of talent in Africa so it’ll blend in very well and probably even take over.
What unique challenges do you still encounter in your craft?
A lot of people overlook my sound because my music isn’t like the masses.
You are also a songwriter, and have a repertoire of hits for other artists. Do you think songwriters are appreciated enough in your industry?
Definitely not, it’s almost like the industry tries its hardest to keep us invisible. Sometimes you get your credits but it still never feels enough. I hope one day we get our flowers.
What do you hope to achieve with your music?
Touch souls, relate with those I haven’t even ever spoken to before. Just to create a long lasting impressions.
What is next for Moelego?
My fans should expect more music and hit songs. Hopefully also, more recognition and appreciation for my craft.
Tell us a bit about your fashion sense.
I’m a simple guy who doesn’t like stress, you can normally catch me in tracksuit or a nice patterned two piece outfit.
If you had three open choices for collaborations at the moment, who would they be and why?
That would be Blxst, H.E.R and Jazmine Sullivan. I love their styles.
If you hadn’t chosen music, what would you have become?
Nothing, music is my calling. I’m so sure of it!
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