Why I’m passionate about Islamic songs – Waka Queen

In Nigeria’s entertainment industry dominated by young hip-hop, RnB artistes, Kuburat Oritoke Sanusi has carved a niche for herself. In this interview with Weekend Magazine, the 24-year old Islamic singer, popularly called Waka Queen, speaks about her passion for Islamic songs.   Weekend Magazine: When did you start singing? Waka Queen: I have been singing […]

In Nigeria’s entertainment industry dominated by young hip-hop, RnB artistes, Kuburat Oritoke Sanusi has carved a niche for herself. In this interview with Weekend Magazine, the 24-year old Islamic singer, popularly called Waka Queen, speaks about her passion for Islamic songs.

 

Weekend Magazine: When did you start singing?

Waka Queen: I have been singing since childhood. Even when I was in Islamic school, my Alfa would insist that I led the procession whenever we have any occasion to sing and dance. That was when I started my music career.

WM: Why did you choose Islamic songs?

Waka Queen: I really love Islamic music because, to me the music is just inspirational and due to my religion, there is no other song that I can sing aside from Islamic music. This is the reason I’m into it.

WM: Where do you get inspirations from?

Waka Queen: Mostly when I am washing or if something happens around where I live, I really feel motivated and inspired. For instance, I got my first track which I titled Kayebinu arawa while in my neighbourhood. It means we should stop beefing ourselves. We have to start helping ourselves. When I first started my music career, a lot of people underestimated me. But I didn’t relent because I keep telling myself that I know where I am going and I’m determined to reach the peak. Now, some of them see me as their role model.

WM: Do you have role models?

Waka Queen: Yes I do! My first role model is Seydah Bashirat Iya’n’Ghana Olomitutu while my second role model is Alhaja Rukayat Gawat. They are my role models in the music industry. Whenever I hear their music, I feel really motivated and inspired.

WM: Among Nigerian musicians, who’s your favourite?

Waka Queen: I love Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister .a.k.a. Barry Wonder. He is a legend whose music inspires me. Although he’s late now, people still listen to his music.

WM: How did you come about the name, Waka Queen?

Waka Queen: From a young age, I loved to sing. Even while doing house chores. So, whenever my dad saw me, he would call me Waka Queen. So from that time, people started calling me that name and I really love it. Even some people jokingly call me waka-waka.

WM: What is your first album and when was it released?

Waka Queen: My first album was in 2011 and it was titled Igara Anobi. It contains four tracks. The main reason for that was because of my love for Prophet Muhammed (S.A.W). I cherish him and I’m always thankful that I have Allah in my life. Currently, I’m working on another one titled Alakada.

WM: Most of your songs carry moral lessons. Is there any particular reason for this?

Waka Queen: We must try to make impact or change the way people behave in society. That is why I really like passing messages through my songs. Also, I always like praying with my songs. For instance, my second track was Saanu mi, meaning God should have mercy on me. I did this because we are really suffering in this nation and I prayed seriously in that track.

WM: Don’t you think religious songs are gradually fading away, considering the huge number of hip-hop, reggae and other genres?

Waka Queen: No, it’s not fading away. God is the only one that can reign forever because no one rules forever.

WM: What did your parents say when they first saw you on stage?

Waka Queen: I didn’t know what to tell them at home then because my parents never wanted me to build a career as a musician. All they wanted for me was to go to school. They were not really against me for singing, but insisted that I be educated first. Now, they are very supportive as they claim they see a brighter future for me. Presently, they even allow me to perform at public events, especially Islamic ones.

WM: Are you married?

Waka Queen: I’m single but not ready to mingle yet.

WM: What else do you do?

Waka Queen: I’m a hairstylist and also a make-up artist. Even for now, I’m still learning other entrepreneurial skills I can lay my hands on, because I need it.