For me, music isn’t just money, fame – Morello

Temitope Oluwasukanmi Ojudu, aka Morello, recently premiered the visuals to his hit music ‘System’ in Lagos. The UK graduate of Law and son to Senator Babafemi Ojudu did not allow Law or family, keep him away from his passion. This young artiste had a chat with Weekend Magazine, where he shared his thoughts about the […]

Temitope Oluwasukanmi Ojudu, aka Morello, recently premiered the visuals to his hit music ‘System’ in Lagos. The UK graduate of Law and son to Senator Babafemi Ojudu did not allow Law or family, keep him away from his passion. This young artiste had a chat with Weekend Magazine, where he shared his thoughts about the Nigerian music industry.

Weekend Magazine: Tell us about the concept behind the name ‘Morello.’

Morello: Morello means black cherry. Black cherry is a fruit that isn’t common. I think I am similar to the black cherry fruit because, you can hardly find my kind of person.  I am different in many ways.

WM: You are a lawyer but still find a passion in music. How did your love for music start?

Morello: My love for music began at the tender age of seven or even earlier than that but, I began to play musical instruments at seven.

WM: Which came first, Law or music?

Morello: Music.

WM: How do you intend to combine both Law and music?

Morello: Right now, I am focusing on music but, I am sure I would be able to apply my Law in my music career. You know I have to write agreements, contracts and MoU. So, much of what I learnt, I can apply to the business side of my music.

WM: You just had your debut launch. What was the reception like?

Morello: It was more than I expected. Awesome, is what I can call it and I am grateful to all those who made it a memorable day.

WM: Has your family always been supportive of your music career especially your dad?

Morello: Yes, very supportive.

WM: Coming from a family like yours, how were you able to convince your parents to allow you toe the line of music?

Morello: I never stopped making music for once.  I think this was what made them understand how serious I am about music.

WM: You play the horn quite well. How long have you been playing it?

Morello: For about five years.

WM: How would you qualify your genre of music?

Morello: I am tapping into all genres of music. So, I wouldn’t particularly say I have a particular genre but, I am mostly interested in afro swing.

WM: What is it that separates you from other upcoming singers?

Morello: My style is different. I dress African. I love African prints. I am a musician and not just an entertainer. I play up to five musical instruments. I produce my music myself. I write my songs as well. So, I am not a fluke. Music for me is not just the fame and the money. It is serious business. I want to make a long-lasting impression. I think very few musicians are able to make long lasting impact in Nigeria. I am aiming for that. That is my goal. I want my music to be spoken about and listened to, in many years to come.

WM: Speaking about music production, why do you do it yourself?

Morello: I do it myself because that way I am able to produce my ideas exactly how I have it in my head and in my thought.

WM: What inspires the lyrics of your songs and who are your strongest influences?

Morello: Real life experiences inspire my music and my strongest influence is Don Jazzy.

WM: Any role models in the music industry?

Morello: Everyone who has done something remarkable in the industry, particularly Fela.

WM: Most times people can be very critical of upcoming singers. How do you deal with criticism?

Morello: I learn from some of the criticisms. I don’t allow criticisms hold me down.

WM: The Nigerian entertainment industry comes with a lot of challenges, have you faced any? If not, how do you intend to overcome those challenges when they do finally come your way?

Morello: I intend to overcome these challenges with patience and continuous self-improvement.

WM: Do you intend to collaborate with other artistes soon? If yes, who?

Morello: Collaborations? Definitely yes, and Seun Kuti is someone I look forward to collaborating with.

WM: What is your favorite part when it comes to your music career and which is the least favorite?

Morello: My favorite part is the opportunity to make people happy.

WM: What advice would you have for other upcoming artistes?

Morello: We need to keep working hard and keep improving on our craft.