Encomium
Oluwadamilola Ilesanmi is a fast-rising gospel artiste, having been around for about 15 years in music. ENCOMIUM Weekly asked the University of Ibadan Economics Education graduate why it took her a long time to release her debut album, Hallelujah.
The daughter of the General Overseer of Glorious Christ Gospel Church, Ogba, Lagos, also narrated how music started for her as well as her fears, prospects, love life, among others.
How did music start for you?
I started music when I was very young. As a child who had interest in music, I started singing in the children’s choir. I later joined the adult choir when I was a bit mature. I started doing music professionally 15 years ago.
How many major songs have you released so far?
I haven’t released any hit yet. But I’m presently working on my debut album which will be released and launched very soon. The album is entitled Hallelujah. It has seven tracks and the hit track is Hallelujah.
Why did it take you 15 years to cook an album?
I was waiting for God to give me direction on how to go about the album. The reason is because I did my first album, but due to some circumstances, it was not successful.
That was why I waited this long. I didn’t want to just rush into the studio and start making an album that will not create any impact in the lives of the listeners. I usually sing in churches to gain experience and inspiration from God. That is what delayed my album.
What do you have for the public now that you have a fresh album?
I thank God so much for more inspiration that He has given me to come up with the Hallelujah album. I have better ideas now, more grace and more songs that will make my listeners happy.
What do you sing about?
My music is generally gospel. It’s a kind of song that will heal the sick. It speaks about salvation and predominantly praise and worship songs that my fans will enjoy.
What inspires your music?
I think it is God. I remember when I was in an ugly situation some years back and I said to God if He could see me through, I would sing to Him. I thank God I have fulfilled my vow to Him.
How do you get inspiration?
I get my inspiration from God, most especially when I read the Bible. I also listen to gospel music a lot, like Don Moen, Donnie McClurkin and many more. I also listen to Sinach, who is my role model in music. I listen to Joe Praise and Frank Edward. I also listen to Tope Alabi but she’s not my role model.
When is your album launch coming up?
By the special grace of God, the launch will be coming up on June 14, 2015, at Glorious Christ Church, Thomas Salako Street, Ogba, Ikeja, Lagos.
Who are you expecting at the occasion?
I’m expecting Omije oju mi crooner as the artiste of the day as well as Samuel Amubioya as one of the guest artistes.
When do you intend getting married?
A lot of people have been asking me about when I’m getting married but because I have a target which is my career which I want to accomplish before marriage I will tarry a little. I always tell God I have to achieve something very tangible before I plan of getting married.
Is there any man in your life at the moment?
Yes!
What was the attraction to him?
He just loves me for who I am. When I knew him I had just three dresses but he just loves me for who I am. When I look at myself, I see no attraction but I think it’s God.
Can we please, meet you?
My name is Oluwadamilola Ilesanmi. I’m from Ondo State. I’m the fourth and the last born in the family of Pastor Ilesanmi, a family of six. I did my primary and secondary school in Lagos and obtained a degree at the University of Ibadan. I studied Economics Education and graduated in 2011.
– MATILADA ALOYSIUS
