‘Winning was a pleasant shock’

Weekly Trust: You made history emerging winner of the MTN Project Fame (PFWA)show especially because you are the first female to win it. Did that fact change anything for you? Chidinma: It changed a lot of things. I was the youngest in the academy and also the first female and its making a lot of […]

Weekly Trust: You made history emerging winner of the MTN Project Fame (PFWA)show especially because you are the first female to win it. Did that fact change anything for you?

Chidinma: It changed a lot of things. I was the youngest in the academy and also the first female and its making a lot of people look up to me. When I got out of the academy, a couple of people mentioned to me that at the beginning of the show, they didn’t expect I was going to make it to the final stage, but then again, the academy is a place of learning. It would have been a shame if I didn’t leave the competition with something tangible. I learnt a lot about being confident and believing in myself and following “My hustle”. Now people look at me and believe they can do anything “if that small girl could win PFWA, why not me?” Hence, the direction of my first single, ‘Jankoliko’. The message of the song is, “Everybody wey wan chop must work.”

How did it feel coming tops of the eighteen contestants who were on the show?

It felt so great being the first of eighteen because this has always been my dream, and seeing it come to the fore was really exciting. I really don’t know how to explain it but just imagine that you sleep and find yourself doing what you have always dreamt of doing, and then the moment you open your eyes, it is handed to you on a platter of gold.

It was merely a dream at first, I never really thought it was going to happen, but God was faithful. I felt so privileged and blessed.

Could you explain what that moment was like when you heard your name announced winner?

Did you see the final show? It was not staged. I was sincerely shocked. Don’t get it twisted, it’s not like I don’t believe in myself, but it’s a competition, and everyone had their unique factor. Anyone could have been announced winner. I just kept my mind open to accept whatever came my way. But that day, my dream started flashing through my mind and I just give all the glory to God for taking me that far.

How did you enter for the competition?

I heard about PFWA in 2010, and I thought, “There’s no harm in trying”, so I gave it a shot.

What do you think gave you an edge over the other contestants?

I can’t really pinpoint what it is, I think it was the favour of God and also my performances during the show. Every other person had more musical experience than I. But you know when God wants to single one out, He does it, and that is what He did with me.

Which performances in the house proved the most difficult in terms of preparations and rendering?

My first two performances because they were not in my range, so I wasn’t so happy rendering them and the other two are the Onyeka Onwenu and Tuface songs, these people are stars and their songs are known by everyone. So I needed to convince people that I could do better with the songs. Their presence on the show made it even worse because I had to impress them.

In the course of the competition, you mentioned that your father was against your participation. How were you able to win him over?

My Father wasn’t against my participation, he wasn’t just optimistic about it. Like I said earlier, my father is a disciplinarian. When I got back from church rehearsals he would scold me. But then, I’m sure that is why I had to prove that I could do it. Everyone must “hustle” to attain or reach their dreams. I have chosen to call those who want cheddars and flashy cars but won’t hustle “Jankoliko”- Don’t ask me what that means.

Has his notion of your delving into entertainment changed now that you made history?

It has really changed, he never thought I could achieve that, he is so proud right now

You were about taking the JAMB exams when you entered for the completion. Now that you have won, has that impeded your pursuit for higher education?

I need to get back to my education as soon as possible. I halted because of Project Fame and now that it is over, I am going back to school.

In your opinion, is education the key to success?

I don’t think so; it’s just like icing on the cake. Due to the society we live in, it gives one an edge over those that didn’t go to school.  I also think it commands respect. For instance someone who goes to school abroad is more respected in this part of the world. This necessarily doesn’t mean he is better than the next man who attended LASU or Unilag. But like I said, that is what society or people expect.

How are you coping with your newly acquired fame?

Let me not lie, it’s not easy. But I’m trying all I can to cope with it. The good thing is that I can get away with a lot of things and the worst part is that a lot of things can’t be kept private even if they are private.

Who were your inspirations in the house?

Everyone was an inspiration one way or the other especially Ochuko, Yetunde and Kesse, they always kept me on my feet. I’m a strong believer in the fact that everyone that God planted around me is there for a reason.

There are rumours that you and Kesse have kept up your romance. How well is it going?

Ha! Romance? Kesse and I never had any romance. We are just friends and we are still in touch with one another. Iyanya, Mike and I hung out with him when we visited Ghana for the just concluded Ghana Music awards. I’m also still in touch with a couple of other housemates we BB now and then.

Have you ever dreamt of the life that you have now?

Of course I had always dreamt about this life but there is a better one I’m heading to. I’m not there yet. I understand it is not a day’s journey, so I’m working hard to be a force to reckon with.

You are working on new releases. Could you tell us about them?

I am working on my first album, and also with talented people like Cobhams, Ty Mix, Suspect, Oscar and their likes. They are great people and I will never regret working with them because they make my work really easy. My album will feature Sound Sultan and Iceprince. My first body of work is titled ‘Jankoliko’. The video was shot by a great director, Clarence Peters; it will be released next week.

How hard have you had to work?

I’m a strong believer of the fact that nothing good comes easy, and that is the gospel I’m preaching. I had to spend so many sleepless nights recording new songs, and working on my album. But also, the good thing is that I am working with people that make it easy for me.

How do you define your style of music?

My music basically is pop and it contains inspiration, love and also talks about the society.

Do you write and compose your songs?

I don’t write all my songs, I get support from here and there. That is why most times… in fact something as small as a pencil or my state of mind gingers me to write a song.

What gives you the inspiration to produce a piece like ‘Illusion’?

That song came according to the way I was feeling at that time, it explains all I was going through.

Where do you see yourself in another five years?

First I have to be significant in society, my family and the music industry. So yes, I see myself as a successful singer, giving back to society.

Now that you have said it, could you tell us what Jankoliko means and why you chose to use the term?

Jankoliko is a term/slang for lazy people who want all the benefits of life but refuse to put in the required effort. It is a fun word and it caught on through a couple of my ‘razz’ friends and all the jabs they kept taking at Jankolikos. I feel there are lots of such people in the music industry, searching for easy routes to fame without paying their dues.

What would you be doing now if you hadn’t won?

I would have still chased my musical dreams though it would have been tougher because now its different. I have a very experienced creative team around me at all times, comprising of producers, song writers, stylists, music video director, etc. I would not have been able to afford all these people. I’m truly favoured to be here today.

What do you intend to study/do when you go back to school?

Mass communication.

As an ambassador considering your winning status as the first female to win the PFWA, how do you intend to impact on your fans outside music?

I intend to touch my fans with sincere music. I am a huge believer of meaningful music with lessons and values to impact. I want to be known and recognized for making socially relevant and fun music. People should be able to listen to my songs and be inspired positively.

Do you have any pet projects in the pipeline?

Yes, but I wont disclose yet until I’ve developed them fully.

Lagos they say is the hub of Nigerian entertainment. Do you plan to spread your tentacles up North?

Definitely. I have lots of fans in Northern Nigeria and I intend to keep it that way. There is so much work ahead of me and I want to take all the regions by storm.