Encomium
Godbless is the founder of the popular Eboni Band. In an exclusive chat with ENCOMIUM Weekly, the amiable boss who has graced many A-list events opened up on why he is amongst the top three in the industry.
You are among the top live bands in Nigeria, how do you feel?
I feel good and blessed to be among the top bands in Nigeria, but it all boils down to hard work and determination.
What’s the secret?
The secret is being focused on anything one plans to do.
Where do you get the inspiration?
My inspiration is definitely from God.
What are the pains and the gains?
The pains are when clients refuse to pay after the job is done and when they call to cancel the engagement they still claim they’re right or when some of the staff are not on the same page with you, but I’ve been able to manage all that through the years , and the gain is the money and exposure.
What stands you out from other bands?
What stands me out is the humour and seriousness I put in the business. We all sing the same songs but the presentation makes the difference.
How do you handle competitors?
I don’t see any band as a competitor because the market is too big for all of us to be at the same place at the same time.
What’s your relationship with other top bands?
My relationship with other bands is brotherly.
What are the challenges?
Challenges? In every business there are back biters and the ones with big green eyes.
Was there a time you felt like giving up?
Yes, of course but with determination I’ve been able to stand in test of time.
How do you lead your band and how many members?
I lead my band with open mind and simplicity not forgetting to insert professionalism of the business into them.
How do you handle your family since you’re always busy with engagements?
There is always time to play and time to work, so that is not a problem for me, and my wife works in the band that makes it easier.
How do you cope with female fans or clients who flock around you?
(Laughing) I don’t really have women flock around me like that because my wife is in the band , so no space for me to cut eye for them or for them to do same. She is my shield and I thank God she is in the band, if not my own for pass 2Face.
Why the name Godbless and Eboni Band, why not one name?
I took a clue from (Kool and the Gang) that is how the name came about, Godbless & The Eboni Band and I am very dark in completion too, so all join.
-FEMI OYEWALE
