Kayode Obafemi speaks ahead of his maiden East Africa music tour
Johannesburg-based Nigerian singer-songwriter KAYODE OBAFEMI, 32, is one of Africa’s fastest-rising music talents. He chats with ELLY GITAU as he embarks on his maiden East African music tour in Nairobi this week
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am an Afro pop and dancehall musician who comes from a family of three. I am the second born and the only son.
How did your interest in music grow?
I was born and raised in a Christian home and music was and always has been my passion since I was a child. This passion led me to serve in the church as a vocalist in the choir. I had quite a rich experience during this time and it is from there that I developed discipline while serving God with this gift He gave me. So, I realised that the more I used it, the more I developed unquestionable skill and interest in music in general.
Who influenced you to take this direction?
Well, I would say my father. He was once a music director at the church, so basically I was born into a music home and of course that was an apparent influence to me.
What did you study at the university and how has it helped you musically?
I studied English and it has really helped with my communication skills, which has had a positive impact on my music. Sometimes it can be difficult to accomplish your objectives if there are communication barriers.
Where do you draw your inspiration?
My inspiration comes from diverse spectrums. It could be from the things happening around the world, my personal feelings at any particular time, family, relationships and the surroundings. I also listen to a lot of music and it does not matter what type or genre or from what part of the world, and that inspires me a lot, too. Sometimes I am inspired by a movie story and create music out of that. To me, a song idea never comes instantly; it sits inside me for a while and emerges with time.
How can you define your music?
My music is my voice. I am quite versatile, but I try as much as possible to preach positivity, despite what is happening around the world. I want my music to be able to sink into the ears of the depressed and help them find instant happiness.
Nigerian music is popular in the East African region. What makes it thrive here?
Our (Nigerian artistes) love for oneness, unity, hard work and the fan base always give us the impetus to do better. We also try to push the boundaries that tend to limit our output. We are also good makers and critics of music.
Were you affected in any way by the recent wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa?
Firstly, I was sad and scared to death, but I wasn’t directly affected. However, I feel this is an issue we all need to deal with. Black Africans cannot hate on their fellow blacks, or any other skin colour for that matter, to such extents. It is a huge problem that should be resolved and never be allowed to happen again. We are all one and we should all learn to live together in peace and harmony. Love supersedes violence and a country in war is indebted by all mankind.
Who are some of the artistes you have worked with and the ones you intend to work with in the future?
I have worked with a couple back at home and a few in South Africa including Zahzah, Moola and Dharmyfret, just to mention a few. Well, I do intend to work with quite a lot, but for now I am looking to work with Sauti Sol, Davido, Wizkid, DJ Maphorisa, Tiwa Savage and Burna Boy.
What are some of your most recent music projects?
I recently dropped two singles called Speechless and Bela, which I featured Zahzah. I am looking to drop my debut Extended Play (EP) album within the first quarter of 2020.
What brings you to Kenya?
Exploring is quite important to me and my music. As a learning process, I love to explore different cultures, sounds and vibrations. I have listened to beautiful music and sounds from East Africa, mostly from Sauti Sol, Blinky Bill and Fena Gitu. The tour is mostly promotional.
Are you signed to any record label?
Yes, Bubbles Entertainment.
