‘I seek to inspire hope through music’

When did you start singing?Promise Benson: I started music very early as a drummer and played both in church and outside the church. My experience outside the church gave me opportunity to play for renowned people then. I developed the desire to sing along the line.I graduated into backup singing and did that for a […]

When did you start singing?
Promise Benson: I started music very early as a drummer and played both in church and outside the church. My experience outside the church gave me opportunity to play for renowned people then. I developed the desire to sing along the line.
I graduated into backup singing and did that for a while. I later got into music directing and from there developed the desire to sing independently. So my singing career started officially in 2002. I am dynamic in my music style, I can do any kind of music but my core is R&B and a bit of highlife.
What do you aim to achieve through your songs?
Benson: Somebody once said, when the purpose of a thing is not known, abuse is inevitable. I got into music consciously, and by that I have objectives. Music is a universal thing.
It is suppose to do a whole lot for mankind. Music is suppose to make you dance, make you think, relax, heal you, get you inspired and also keep you alive. All these are my conscious intent when I am making music.
Though in this part of the world, most Nigerians only care about the dancing part, only a few understands the other aspects of music. So my aim is to make you dance, think, relax and heal you. My passion is to inspire hope and love in young people using music and motivation as a medium.
Why did you choose gospel music?
Benson: A lot of people misunderstand the word gospel. It is not just a church word. Gospel means good news.So I chose gospel music because I rather become an agent of good news. Everything in life had a source and until you are connected to your source, you can’t do very well. I want to do well, that’s why I chose to do good news music.
What have you been doing lately, any album in the pipeline?
Benson: I just finished a concert in Port Harcourt. I have another one coming up in Abuja soon. I am planning a church tour around the country. I am also busy with shooting new videos for some of my major songs and I am working on my third album. I am doing a lot.
What challenges do you think confront gospel artists in the country?
Benson: Gospel artists suffer a lot of challenges. You hardly find a gospel artiste on all the major music channels.  You don’t see gospel artist with endorsements. Gospel songs on radio are basically a Sunday affair, and the church which is supposed to be our primary constituency, has not come to the full knowledge of how their artists should be treated. So the challenges are enormous.
How have you been able to stay scandal free?
Benson:  Well it can only be by the help of God. You are a product of what you believe and expect. I have never seen myself in that kind of circumstances, so I guess that’s why. Generally if you behave well, people won’t find what to talk about.
What is your advice for upcoming musicians?
Benson: Well a lot of young people have gone into music for the wrong reasons, based on what they see on television and magazines. Music is not an easy way out to success, it’s hard work.  
It requires lots of passion, so put the passion before the money. Believe me music is work and the rewards does not necessarily come the way you expect. Forget what you see on TV. It is called make up or make believe.
So with passion in front of you, you can stay through when the monies are not forth coming. Don’t just sing because everyone is singing, make sure it’s something you are very passionate about, because passion keeps you going against all odds.