Encomium
OLAJUMOKE Adeniyi-Kuti is a gospel artist who is gradually climbing the ladder of fame and prosperity. Although, she is the daughter of renowned juju icon, King Sunny Ade, she has decided not to lean on her father’s fame, but rather build on it.
ENCOMIUM Weekly had a chat with her recently and she disclosed how she got entangled with music, how she intends to outsmart other established gospel artists, her relationship with her father and more.
Can you let us into your background?
I am Olajumoke Adeniyi-Kuti, I had my primary and secondary education in Ogun State before I proceeded to the School of Aviation. I graduated as an airline ticketing officer. I also ventured into catering and hotel management. It was during my spell in catering and hotel management that I discovered my talent in music and I went to a school of music.
How did you really start your musical career?
Singing is part of me, it’s an inspiration. I started as a church chorister when I was much younger, and I discovered that music is my calling, but the inspiration is actually from God.
How would you describe your kind of music?
I call it gospel classic, because it is a pot pourri of gospel tracks.
How many albums have you produced?
Just one album of six tracks. I composed and wrote all the songs.
The album is entitled, The Restorer of my Soul, what informed it?
Life is full of ups and downs and you know people experience all kinds of problems. I also looked at what had happened to me, where I was coming from, where I am and where I am going to. I sing to uplift people and to give them a sense of belonging.
When did you start music and what are the challenges so far?
It’s quite a long time. Actually, from my childhood, but professionally, it started about two years ago. It has not been easy, especially when people no longer value gospel music. But so far, so good, I’ve been coping very well.
How do you juggle music, going to shows and your catering business?
Music has become a part of me and business is no longer a stress. I have a schedule for my activities. My catering is not an everyday job and I compose at my leisure. But music takes more of my time than any other business. I get shows from churches and organisations. My performances have really given me encouragement because music is my calling.
Looking at the established gospel artists in Nigeria now, how do you intend to outsmart them?
I have put everything in the hands of God to take control. I can’t think much about them now, all I want to do is to concentrate on my music and put more effort in my career, then wait and see where I would be in the next couple of years.
How do you get inspiration to compose?
It comes at times when I’m bathing, at times when I am sleeping; even when I am walking. At times, it sounds funny when I see unusual things and I’m inspired to compose from that scenario.
Who do you see as your role model in the industry?
God is my role model, but in the industry, King Sunny Ade, Asa and Whitney Houston are my role models.
You bear the same name with KSA, what is the relationship?
KSA is my dad. My surname is Adeniyi, but I don’t want to dwell or talk more on our relationship. He’s been my inspiration and role model.
What are those things you’ve learned from him?
Hard work, dedication and sincerity. KSA is a super star yet humble. So, I want to follow his steps so as to be greater.
Why don’t you want to lean on his success?
No, I can’t do that. If I want to be successful, I would rather build on his success than lean on it. He is not going to sell my album for me, my good works would speak for me.
But we have not heard much about you?
Yes, it is because I’m just coming up. By the grace of God, I would be a force to reckon with in the gospel genre in Nigeria.
What are your expectations?
Success, fame and great achievements. I intend to stamp my footprint in the music industry.
- This story was first published in ENCOMIUM Weekly on Tuesday, February 22, 2011
