Aridunnu is a household name among gospel musicians and backup singer for popular gospel acts like Big Bolaji, Gbenga Adenuga, among others. He told ROTIMI IGE recently why consistency should be the watchword for gospel artistes, among other issues.
Background.
I am Onisile Aladesanmi Aridunnu, born to the family of Mr and Mrs Onisile about some three decades ago. I’m the first child of three; two boys and a girl. I am from Ijero Ekiti in Ekiti State but born and raised in Ibadan. I am a graduate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Inspiration
Music has always being an inborn passion. I started singing as a young chap in school, church and at home. Singing is a passion. It’s something I do without stress and I had family and friends who encouraged me to do music.
Why Gospel?
Being from a Christian home, my family had always encouraged me to use my talent for God. I grew up listening to a lot of gospel music. I then decided to get mentored and I was lucky enough to be tutored under a gospel musician. I have practically, all my life, always being a fan of gospel music. Using the gift I got from God for him is one joy I will forever cherish. He owns our talent. There is no issue returning the glory to him.
But critic opine that there is no money in gospel music…
Well, saying there’s no money in gospel music is a just a myth. Consistency is the key. I get called for social events and I’m told to do strictly gospel music. Nothing good comes easy. The money does not roll in quick but it sure will. Consistency and being creative is very important. Though I haven’t made money yet but we are getting there very soon. Money isn’t the focus in my case. however, my works will speak for me. Success always comes after work has been put in, so I am on my way up.
Band or recording artiste?
Sometime In June 2010, I lost my grandfather. All the people I sang for or back up for had events that they had to do and had being paid. I was confused on what next to do. My boss that mentored me and still mentoring me, Big B, called me up and said, ‘Aridunnu you can do this’. Imagine a grandson singing at his grandfather’s burial. I was scared but since no one was available. I called friends who were loyal and didn’t have any commitment on that day which was September 3, 2010, to support me and that was my first trial alone. The party was a success and that was the birth of my brand, ARIDUNNU4YOUREVENTS. So, I am fully a band person. Live music is the best. Challenging, but it brings out the best in any artiste. It brings out the creativity in one.
Music influences
Firstly, I started music with Gbenga Adenuga, then Dare Ayelabola (Another level music) groomed me; we were all young and passionate about what we did. I got influenced and mentored by Bolaji Olarewaju (Big B) who is my greatest backbone after God. I also got influenced by the likes of King Sunny Ade and Evangelist Ebenezer Obey, they influenced me even as a child. I grew up listening to their songs. I have a lot of influence that I can’t even start mentioning here.
Other projects
I am also into event planning and management. I am also into provision of sounds and light.
Next for Aridunnu
Aridunnu is a name, next is we making it a brand that delivers excellence. Not just music alone but plan to make it a platform to raise others.
Memorable experience
Just like I mentioned earlier, September 2010 was my first ever event. My grandfather’s burial ceremony,. I can’t forget that day ever. That was the launch of Aridunnu music.
What many don’t know about me
I’m a good cook and I can’t bath under the shower. I love adventure too.
and then