Nigerian-born UK-based gospel juju artiste, Ayo Orimogunje, popularly known as AY Inspiration, is one of the few Nigerians making waves in the music industry abroad. He speaks with SEYI SOKOYA on his plans to contribute his quota to the development of entertainment industry. Excerpts:
How did you discover your passion for music?
I have had passion for music since my tender age. So, I ensured I developed my talent by taking it up professionally. Instead of dumping music when I travelled abroad to face other things, I was determined to push it abroad and I am glad to be rated as one of the fast-rising gospel juju musician abroad.
With your exposure, what is your assessment of the entertainment industry abroad compared to Nigeria?
The difference is not much. I think the only thing I discovered is that entertainment industry abroad is more encouraging. The industry is well strcutured than that of Nigeria. I see this as a privilege and at the same time, a challenge to the Nigerian entertainment industry. I am ready to contribute my quota to the development of our industry with the experience I have gained abroad.
Would you say you went on a greener pasture when you felt music was not working for you?
I actually went for a greener pasture, but it was not due to the fact that music was not working for me. I thank God for whatever I have become in life through music. My journey to the foreign Iand has really helped my career a lot.
How many songs have you produced?
I have released several songs. I am currently pushing my latest album entitled: Inspiration. I am more confident in singing gospel juju music and I have been able to carve niche for myself in music. I’m a spirit-filled musician. I am a prophet; I am always inspired by God as well as abiding to His ordinances. So, my songs are not ordinary. I know I have a smooth relationship that no one can fault with God.
How do you intend to increase your fan base in Nigeria?
It is a gradual process. My recent visit to Nigeria was part of the plans to project my brand and also to reconnect with my fans. I am impacting lives and entertaining people with my talent. I will try my best to take the industry to the next level.
How is your relationship with Nigerian artistes?
I have no enemy. I am free with eveyone. I will welcome anyone who wishes to be my friend. It is a free world for me and this is what we need in the industry; unity is what will make artistes and the industry at large grow faster. I respect and love every talents at both home and abroad, because we are all doing a great job.
What has been your major challenge?
I think it is a bit challenging to produce an album, but I thank God that I was able to produce one and I am currently working hard to produce another. Honestly, challenges are part of life, because one has to face one or to obstacles to become successful. Anyway, I love to be challenged, because I am a very hardworking person.
Where would you like to see yourself in the next five years?
I am aiming high and I wish to go to places with my talent. I have not come to my country to compete with anyone, but to display my talent and connect with my fan base. The Nigerian entertainment industry is growing everyday and I will be happy to be part of this development as a proudly Nigerian. I am not actually a greenhorn, but I will say I am new because I just came up with an album.
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