Tell us about your self.
[Clears throat, with a smile...] My
name is Opeyemi Olaleye and my native place is Ile Ife, Osun State but I
was born and brought in Lagos State as I completed my studies. Confidence, positive attitude, self-motivated, quick learning,
adaptability and hardworking are my strengths. My weakness is "...I
don't believe easily everyone", sorry.
My
hobbies are reading books and listening music, good music. In other
words, I am me. No affiliate, no photocopy, no copyright and once I am
your friend, you will realize that I am loyal and reliable to be
trusted.
Tell us when and how you start your music.
Wow!
[Laughs] That was back in the elementary school, I had a close friend;
Idowu Olabanji, who suddenly developed interest in music and needed me
in, he tried to lure me in though, to make a 2-act-thing but I was
putting my education into consideration, as a mamma's baby of the house,
I never wanted any bad performance in my academics. And, as time flies
by, I complied to the idea and we went on but not for long. Reason was
because he got discouraged while I decided never to back out.
In
school, I was known for always miming to all Akon's albums when which
two of my class mates; Agbebaku Sunday and Bamidele Daniel,
walked up to me, with the idea of starting a group, I was in the senior
class then. We recorded our first single "Padi Mi (My Pal)", it got us
few events we performed at but the sad story is... Bamidele Daniel had
to quit, as he saw no future in the group *in his mind though*, the split discourage Agbebaku Sunday and I was left alone with my fate.
In
2005, I recorded my first solo single "See Di Girl (See The Girl)", it
has a video and this move made me go places, that got me my first big
show ever at the Felabration; an annual event organized by Nigeria’s #1
Afro-Beat person, Femi Kuti. Then, I stepped up my game in 2012, when I
recorded another hit banger, "Maa Lo Le (Don't Go Dulling)", which
enjoyed the airwaves and internet radio promotion.
How do you combine music with education?
Everyone knows quite alright, that, the combination is never easy but with the glory of God, I stay fly always.
Do you plan to make any difference in the music industry?
[Laughs]
That's certain, I'm married to my thoughts, giving a fuck about yours
is adultery, I don't imitate. I'm just doing it in my own grand style
and that's how one can be known for what his/her dealings, you can
always be you while I remain me.
Tell us the talented artistes you
admire.
Aliaune Damala Badara Thiam, I
know you'd be wondering if I'm speaking in tongues, I'm not in the
spirit world, that is Akon's full name and I respect Innocent "2face"
Idibia and Sean Paul
What are the things that gives you inspiration?
Na
nature. Yes, nature does inspires me. I can come up with a story line
based on what I see happening or that has happened and experiences too
inspires me.
Do you take hard substance like smoke?
Tah!
I don't get myself
engaged in such acts though I have folks that if they in no day have
those ill substances in their body system, they sure will not be
themselves but I dissociate myself from such acts.
What are you currently working on under your record label?
SD Records, big kudos to the CEO, Princess Adeyemi Adetutu, obirin bii okunrin (a
woman like a man), she's been really working very hard on her artistes,
maybe I should not disclose any yet, you will get the latest from us
if you're a big fan of the SDR Family and if you're not, become today
[smiles]
How do you feel
working with SD Records?
I feel great
and it's wonderful experiencing this; meeting and working with new
folks, the label mates and the executives, it's a cool thing.
What should your fans expects from you?
Nothing
but the best of Jahfizz and I promise, never, to ever get them
disappointed. [Smiles] And, your constant support and words of
encouragement to get me on the go is all I need back from you all to
keep fueling me [laughs]
Who are the artistes or producers you are looking forward to work with in the industry?
Locally, I'd like the efforts of Cynthia
Morgan, 2face, Olamide and internationally, the likes of Akon and Sean Paul would be so appreciated to spice my cooking album.
What advice can you give for your fellow up-comers out there?
Advice
is something to be cautious with in the first place. I learned early
on that it would probably behoove my creative spirit to be wary of
advice, record a good song, sample opinions from a bunch of people (friends and strangers alike) and be sure at least 60% or more like the song. Prepare yourself as a product.
Work
on your image and be sure you're “attractive” to the average person
that comes
across you or your music. Get ready to perform, create performance
routines, find an exciting way to deliver your song to any audience that
will leave an impression.
And,
diving in and speaking in a rude fashion will not only ruin your
reputation as an artist, but it will also deter others from working with
you many years down the line. So, "...yes, learn to have patience
because in this industry, you are going to need it to survive", may God
bless us all [AMEN]
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