I’ve got music in my genes – Jessica Bongos Ikwue‎

  WT: Did your dad’s career influence your decision to join music? Ikwue: It definitely did. I never thought I would make the decision to be a full time musician but I think growing up listening to a lot of really good music, thanks to my dad (including his music) as well as him constantly […]

 

WT: Did your dad’s career influence your decision to join music?

Ikwue: It definitely did. I never thought I would make the decision to be a full time musician but I think growing up listening to a lot of really good music, thanks to my dad (including his music) as well as him constantly playing the guitar and singing influenced my love for music and my decision to make it a career.

WT: When did you decide you wanted to be a musician?

Ikwue: Not too long ago, to be honest. About two years ago. I had my doubts about that career choice, especially as it greatly contradicts my personality, which is very quiet, shy and reserved.

WT: How would you describe your kind of music?

Ikwue: I would say it’s laid back, mellow, soul (sometimes jazzy) music.

WT: What has been the response so far, especially to your genre of music?

Ikwue: So far, it’s been quite warm.

WT: What have been the challenges so far in your music career?

Ikwue: The challenges would be mostly financial, as I’m an independent artiste that is not signed to a record label. Due to this reason, I haven’t been able to implement a lot of my ideas. Also, the process of getting out there has been slower than it would have been if I had a full team of people working with me.

WT: Has being the daughter of famous ‘Bongos Ikwue’ opened doors for you?

Ikwue: I’m not really sure I can say it’s opened doors but people definitely pay a little more attention when they hear that I am his daughter. It makes them generally curious to know what I’m about.

WT: What was his reaction like when you told him you were going into music?

Ikwue: He was really pleased. He had actually tried for years to convince me into being a singer prior to my decision. So, he was pleased and is very supportive of me.

WT: Where do you get inspiration for your lyrics?

Ikwue: Hmmm, they usually just come out of the blues. Sometimes, I’m inspired by other peoples’ stories and a few times, I’m inspired by things that I have been through. I mostly just write how I’m feeling at the moment.

WT: Who are your musical influences?

Ikwue: Bongos Ikwue, Lauryn Hill, Stevie Wonder, Adele, Otis Redding, Jill Scott, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, Laura Mvula. Too many to mention.

WT: How many songs/ albums have you released?

Ikwue: So far, I’ve released a 5 song digital EP (Extended Play) called “Unscathed” that is available for free download on my website www.jessicabongos.com

WT: Any popular artiste you would love to collaborate with?

Ikwue: From Nigeria, Tuface Idibia and Bez Idakula. Internationally, Lauryn Hill

WT: If you weren’t into music what would you have been doing?

Ikwue: I would be a restaurateur and an Events Manager.

WT: You play the guitar quite well, how long did it take you to learn the guitar and what other musical instrument do you play?

Ikwue: I actually don’t play the guitar but I’m currently learning how to play the bass guitar and I can play a little bit of piano.

WT: What is your outlook to the musical industry in the country today?

Ikwue: I’m amazed by its growth. There are record labels being built everyday and a lot of full time creative artistes are dedicating their time to contribute positively to the growth of the industry. There is a plethora of talented musicians coming out to express their art everyday. I pray we’ll eventually have a properly structured music Industry with policies that ensure that the musicians are well taken care of.

WT: What are your hopes and aspirations?

Ikwue: I hope to be an inspiration. I hope to one day be appreciated and valued for my Art. I hope to make a difference somehow in Nigeria. I hope to touch people’s hearts even if it’s only one person.

WT: Should fans expect a father, daughter collaboration for you and your dad soon?

Ikwue: This is very possible. I’ll try and make it happen.

WT: What is the next big thing fans should expect from you?

Ikwue: More songs, a few videos (I don’t have any at the moment) and a live show that is 100 percent created and produced by me depicting my true musical style.