Step aside Simi, I am here —Jola Bello

Mojolaoluwa Bello, popularly called Jola Bello is a budding songstress. A native of Ibadan in Oyo State, she is the youngest of five sisters. The dainty and diminutive 400-Level Geography student at the University of Ibadan recently released a single into the music market entitled U, which is fast-gaining acceptance and popularity. She spoke with SEGUN ADEBAYO in this interview.

You are a Geography undergraduate of the University of Ibadan. Why the switch to music?

Music is a career I would like to pursue after school because it helps me to express my emotions through my voice and of course, to entertain my listeners. Besides, the best time is right now as I am rounding off my programme. A learned musician is a gifted one, and it is the right thing today because beyond just singing and entertaining, there is business part to it. When you are well grounded, you stand to do greater exploits. Education is a great legacy, one can have but music is all I’ve always wanted to do. I am glad I am about to bag my first degree, so I can better pursue my music career.

You sound like the songstress Simi. Is that deliberate or just mere coincidence?

I’d say that’s a coincidence because left to me, I sound like Jola Bello. Funny enough, she is one of my role models in the music industry but I am here, so it must be about time for Simi to step aside.

How has your music been received so far?

Well, so far I have got very good remarks and reviews . And I believe this is just the beginning of dishing out great works to my listeners. Every good work takes time, planning, commitment and dedication. And these, I am working on.

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Tell us more about yourself. Did your growing up, in any way prepare you for where you find yourself today? How supportive is your family?

I am the youngest of my siblings. I remember my sisters used to bring music CDs home and I usually paid a lot of attention to lyrics, dances and the whole showbiz. I was often referred to as the performer at home. I would compose songs and make freestyles for my family. I guess all this contributed to the Jola Bello today. My family is supportive of my music and I believe I will make them proud in the long run.

Who are your role models in the industry?

I would say Tiwa Savage, Simi , Eva Alordia, Wizkid ,Davido and a lot more . They give me positive views about the industry due to their consistency and hard work. It hard work being them, especially seeing that they consistently churn out hits upon hits, while remaining relevant and on top of things.

What are your next plans?

This time next year, I believe Jola Bello should be a household name and every Nigerian should know of my music. I want the world to get ready for me because I am about to blow and glow . I am not just Jola Bello the female Nigerian singer, I am a go-getter and an achiever and with the grace of God and hard work,I will achieve my goals. I put my soul and my artistry into everything I do, starting from my fashion statements to my music and that makes me different from everyone, because no one else but me can be me.