Popular singer Yemi Alade tells TOFARATI IGE about her career and other issues.
What is the idea behind your latest song titled, ‘Tomorrow’?
It is a dance/conscious-oriented song that reminds listeners of the endless possibilities and second chances that ‘tomorrow’ gives everyone. It was borne from bare melodies that manifested into words that everyone can relate to.
Having been in the industry for about a decade, what do you identify as your driving force that has helped you to remain relevant in the music industry?
I love music. It is actually the one thing that I am gifted at. I am deeply rooted and connected to music. It has chosen me as its messenger.
You regularly travel to performing at various concerts and festivals around the world. How do you find the time to write and record new songs?
There is will always be time for the things that are most important to one, and writing music is something I always do with ease when I am on the road. On such occasions, I make voice notes, which eventually lead to the creation of songs.
The music industry is saturated with new artists surfacing every other day. How do you manage to reinvent yourself and your music so that you don’t lose touch?
The music industry has always been tough, even before I showed any interest in it. And, it will continue to be tough. However, it is said that ‘tough times never last but tough people do’. I believe that the strongest will always survive.
You have been in the industry for over a decade. Considering it is an industry where artists have short shelf lives, how does that make you feel?
Officially, I have been in the industry for 14 years, counting from when I released my first song titled, ‘Fimisile’, and featuring Eldee tha Don.
How would you describe your personality?
I am myself— a true and authentic African. There is no one like me. I am unique, and a rare gem. I am also an African trailblazer and rebel, making her way in this diverse but monotonous world.
What are the major themes that run through your forthcoming album?
They include femininity, style, dance , motivational, liberation, and consciousness.
Growing up, African pop music was a mixture of songs that carried messages and helped listeners through different situations.
This album is a blend of what my playlist consists of right now, particularly the new and old pop music that cut across generations and boundaries.
I have always charted my own course and walked the path less traveled. I believe that I am a true rebel in words and action. A lot of albums tend to be monotonous in genre and style, and it bores me silly most times. This album has something new, old, and borrowed. Every song is unique and is like a capsule of my thoughts and melodies, as well as a lot of nostalgia.
Did you feature any artists on the album?
It is a 16-track album that will take listeners through the sounds of Africa with different tempos and rhythms.
Let’s just some artists, who are fan-favourites from different parts of the world, are on the album.
How often do your personal life experiences influence your songs?
That actually happens 90 percent of the time.
How would you describe the evolution of your music over the years?
I have just continued to make music with the constant element being Yemi Alade.
Are you in a relationship at the moment, and are you looking to walk down the aisle anytime soon?
I would like people to continue to focus on the things that I am willing to share with them, which is the music.
What is the biggest thing stardom and fame has deprived you of?
That would be my personal space, and sometimes, freedom of expression without being judged.
What do you regard as the next level for you personally?
I am actually on the journey to discovering that.
What’s your biggest worry at this stage of your life and career?
My worries have all been cast on God.
How do you relax?
I like to visit new food spots that have excellent reviews. And, when I feel like I need new stimuli, I go to a new country and get a villa to myself with a personal chef and breathtaking view.
