My big break is yet to come – Dare Art-Alade

Weekend Magazine: Some people say you’re still bitter about not winning an MTV award some years back. Is that true? I definitely don’t feel any bitterness towards MTV or any of the nominees and winners. On the contrary I’m very happy for my brother and colleague 2Face who has had a great career so far. […]

Weekend Magazine: Some people say you’re still bitter about not winning an MTV award some years back. Is that true?

I definitely don’t feel any bitterness towards MTV or any of the nominees and winners. On the contrary I’m very happy for my brother and colleague 2Face who has had a great career so far. We have collaborated and sometimes even eat from the same plate. You see, upon my return home from Kenya, I posted on Facebook that I’m so happy for MI, D’Banj, P. Square and the rest who all won awards and made me proud. The speculations you mention are not true.

WM: Why do you always shoot your videos in South Africa and claim to be ‘proudly Nigerian’?

Being proudly Nigerian is in our blood. Apart from the fact that I have shot several videos at home across the nation, from Lagos to Abuja, I have also kick-started the careers of some of Nigeria’s current “in-demand” directors and video producers. As a musician, I believe in diversity and variety. A change of scenery – cast, equipment and so on – can do no harm.

WM: When did your love for music begin?

As early as I can remember, from the age of 8 when I was part of a kiddie’s choir performing our version of USA for Africa’s “We Are the World”. Ever since I knew I wanted to make and perform music.

The journey has been full of ups and downs but coming from where I come from and the beautiful people around me, I have learnt to only dwell on the positive. It’s not easy especially in a country like ours but I thank God for the awards, sales, performances and love shown to me so far.

WM: Varied influences evident in your music have caused some people to say your place is not in the Nigerian music industry. What’s your take on that?

Music is universal, from Terry G to Fatai Rolling Dollar, from Sammy Okposo to Fela Kuti. I strive to make music that anybody and everybody can identify with. I aim for variety in my music and my songs have gone far around Nigeria and Africa and now with the expertise of Soul Muzik we are aiming for the rest of the world including North America. Sometimes it seems we limit ourselves mentally but I believe in the Nigerian spirit of resilience and excellence. My place is definitely in Nigeria.

WM: Your late father was a bona fide music icon. What did you learn from him?

The late, great Art-Alade was an influential figure in my life, impacting on me more than I can remember. But the earliest encounter I remember was me bringing home my music homework from secondary school (CMS Grammar School) and asking him about the duration of notes or something like that.

I definitely learnt a lot from him. He was my role model right from my early days. Other memories include him playing on TV and making people happy and smiling. He always left anyone he met with a smile. Something I am trying hard to learn. He was truly a gem.

WM: You were a member of the National Troupe of Nigeria (NTN). What was the experience like?

My experience with NTN was with the choir. Although short lived, it gave me the bedrock of professionalism and dedication to music and performing with a team of seasoned veterans under the leadership of Femi Ogunrombi of Papa Ajasco fame and directors of the NTN and National Theatre. From performing indigenous music to learning more about notations and other forms or music, it was a swell time with them.

WM: When would you say is the point at which your big break in music happened?

I’m not sure, because I’m still looking for that big break (laughter). But I think Project Fame South Africa played a monumental role in my professional life. From performance to confidence and dexterity, it was a wonderful opportunity for me. But that is history; I believe there are much bigger and better things to come.

WM: Your song ‘Original Naija’ was used as the theme song for the first-ever edition of Big Brother Nigeria. Tell us about the deal…

There wasn’t much of a ‘deal’ involved but through Storm Records my song was used as the theme. It gave the music identity and a whole lot of people grew to like it. I have Obi Asika and the Storm team to thank for that.

WM: What is the influence of your wife on your music, as one of the few singers who settled down early?

Her impact is invaluable and I thank her and Soul Muzik for all the love, belief and support over the years. Without her I would be nothing.

WM: You are among the few artists that have made Abuja their home…

Music business in Abuja is coming up in a big way. Although Lagos has always been the melting pot for music and entertainment, we are doing our own bit and contributing to the Abuja entertainment scene.

WM: How do you handle distractions that come from your female fans?

Female admiration is inevitable. I have a family and a loving wife. There is a balance and I am appreciative of all the female support so far.

WM: Do your songs and videos ultimately put a smile on your face when you check your bank statement at the end of the day?

Not yet, but we are hoping and working towards it every day. When it happens I will surely let you know (laughter).

WM: Career-wise, what has been your biggest challenge so far?

Piracy, cheats and lack of general infrastructure. It kills creativity on all levels, from music makers to poets and software developers. Something must be done to fix our situation in Nigeria.