Encomium
QUEEN of talking drums, Ara, has revealed her regret as she steps into 40 in January 2015. And that is losing her virginity. Aralola Olamuyiwa (as her parents named her), is, however, consoled by the fact she has a son to show for it.
In an exclusive interview with ENCOMIUM Weekly on Thursday, August 7, 2014, the mother of one child again disclosed she’s releasing he debut album on her 40th birthday on January 23, 2015, after 25 years of performance. A three-in-one affair, the African leading female talking drummer also explained it would be tied to other projects she’s keeping under wraps.
She also opened up on why her three year-old marriage to Olalekan Saliu crumbled, insisting there was actually no marriage in the true sense of the word. Her reason being that he was previously married with kids and more.
What has been happening to Ara?
A lot of wonderful things. For instance, I have been a performing artiste for 25 years without an album. There was a time I actually planned it but I decided to let it coincide with my 40th birthday, which is on January 23, 2015. It is going to be unveiled on that day. I’m also going to unveil one or two projects of mine that same day. So, I just want to keep everything under wraps till then.
You are releasing your debut next year. Why did it take you 25 years to launch an album?
A lot of factors, motherhood and one or two issues during the course of my journey in life. Yes, I produced my first movie which had five nominations at the prestigious Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards. I dabbled into movie to further project what I stand for, which is to represent my people’s culture and tourism through movies.
What’s the title of the movie?
Osunfunke. It got five nominations at BON. We were nominated for Best Sound, Cinematography, Supporting Actress and Best Director.
25 years on, what has been your strength?
First is God, the Father of all creations. He has been my strength. Again, I enjoy what I do, I’m privileged to do what I do. And it’s a privilege for me to be here.
It’s particularly inspiring that you do a unique style of music that’s essentially cultural. What made you settle for this?
I believe in cultural heritage, come rain or shine, our culture will always be there. Everybody has a historical heritage, be you Igbo, Hausa or Yoruba. And that’s worthy of celebration. Your DNA never lies to you. If it’s not you, it’s not you. Staying true to my culture is it.
You have an amazing dexterity on the drums, at what age did you learn this?
I started drumming at about age five, that’s the traditional drum before going for the talking drum. I started that over 10 years ago.
You did a collaboration with 2Face Idibia which showed the world another side of you. What inspired it?
I’ve always wanted to do something with an artiste outside the kind of music I play. When I wanted to remix that evergreen song, I wanted to work with an artiste who doesn’t speak my language. 2Face is not Yoruba. So, I wanted him to sing in his own native language. And when he did, it turned out fine.
Is that the way to go for Ara?
That’s the way to go. I’m also looking forward to featuring two other artistes from other parts of the country.
What would be the title of your debut album?
I don’t know yet but I’m releasing three albums.
Who is the producer?
Because my songs are all written and arranged by me, I’m producing with other top producers whose names would later be unveiled. Some of them include Wole Oni and the guy that produce for Wizkid.
How would you categorise your kind of music?
Gangan Fusion.
You are 40 and fabulous, you don’t look it. What is responsible for this?
Maybe my gene. I also try to do the right things. I try not to overdo things.
Any regret at 39?
How I wished I were still a virgin. Yeah, but it’s a good thing I have a beautiful son.
You got a son?
Yes, from my previous marriage.
What’s the state of the marriage now? Are you properly divorced?
It’s not even divorce. As at the time we got married, he (Olalekan Saliu) was still legally married to another woman. I wasn’t aware. So, automatically, our marriage was annulled ab initio.
How long did you co-habit?
We lived together for about three years.
Any regret?
I don’t have any regret because a beautiful child came out of it. If I say I have a regret, then my son will be a regret. I don’t have to regret it because of my son.
When all the wahala was going on, did you feel downcast?
Yes, I was depressed and downcast. I never planned my life like that. I never knew I will experience this. I have always loved family life, having children who would be raised under the atmosphere of love. When all of that was happening, I naturally lost hope, but my son returned my hope.
How supportive were your parents then?
They were very supportive.
Your parents are still very much around?
My dad died last year.
What’s happening to your ex-husband?
He’s married. He has been married and he has other kids now. We still talk for the sake of our kid. He is still my friend, I don’t believe in bitterness. He’s still my son’s dad.
What is your son’s name?
Ire.
Where is your ex-hubby from?
He is from Lagos State.
Aralola Olamuyiwa, where are you headed?
I’m headed for the very top by God’s grace.
– UCHE OLEHI
