Encomium
FIFTH winner of the MTN Project Fame West Africa, Ayoola Ayolola, who went home with N2.5m and a SUV, had a chat with ENCOMIUM Weekly’s TOSIN ODUMOSU on what he has been up to, his newly released single, videos, what Project Fame had done for him, his ideal woman and much more…
How is life after Project Fame?
Life has been very good, but of course it’s still quite demanding. The road to success is not always that easy, and I believe I am on that path too.
What are some of the lessons Project Fame taught you?
I have learnt a whole lot from the Academy, but the most important for me would be persistence. Once you set your mind on achieving something, do all you can to get it. But persistence is useless without skill and practice. These two things shorten the time you would have to wait.
It’s about a year now, what would you say your pains and gains are since you won Project Fame?
Almost a year now, and I can say with all confidence that I have no regret whatsoever, and the fact that I have been set on the path to fulfilling my dreams is great gain for me.
What were the tricks that made you win the show?
Tricks ke, no tricks at all. To be honest, I was just me, no tricks at all. There was no particular processor attitude.
Did you ever think you would win the show when you did your first audition?
My first audition was in 2008, and I went on to do 10 more auditions until 2012 when I won. Every time I auditioned, I thought I was going to win. Nine times I was kicked out.
What inspired you to audition for the show?
The drive to succeed and also to prove that I really could do it every time they kicked me out. I just didn’t believe I couldn’t do it, so I kept trying.
What are some of the challenges as a celebrity now?
They are so many. I call it the ‘identity battle’. It’s tough and it’s very compulsory to fight that battle. Those that win have long lasting success, those that don’t, well…
So, how did you spend your cash prize?
Are you planning to give me another one if I answer? I paid my tithe, I am still re-investing in my career and supporting my family.
What’s your relationship with other winners of Project Fame?
We have a pretty cool relationship. We talk often and even see as well. A few days ago, I was with Adetoun and Didi, so we are all cool.
It’s been a year and we haven’t heard so much from Ayo, what exactly have you been up to?
I released my first single months ago entitled, Amin featuring Vector. And recently released the audio and video of my second single, Ochanya featuring Phyno. It’s on TV stations and online as well. I am working pretty hard to spread the music.
To what extent has being a Project Fame star opened doors for you?
It has helped a lot. So many opportunities are within my reach now and I am very grateful to God for that.
What’s your five-year goal?
In five years, I see Ayoola becoming a household name all over Africa. I want to be a worthy export to other continents, that is what I pray and work hard for.
You are a good looking young man, how do you handle your female fans?
Thank you for the compliment. I try my best, my fans are a part of my career, a huge blessing, male and female. I love them all. No put me for trouble abeg.
Do you have a girlfriend?
No, I don’t. I am very, very single at the moment.
What are the qualities you look out for in your ideal woman?
My woman! My woman first, has to be beautiful, the God factor must be constant, so that’s not debatable. Then, she has to have a great sense of humour. She must be able to cook well. Then every other thing na jara.
Briefly tell us about your family.
I am the first of five children, all born in Kano to Pastor and Mrs. Ayolola from Oyo State.
