Nigeria: I'm Close to Bagging a Grammy - Yemi Alade

INTERVIEW

By Adie Vanessa Offiong

Yemi Alade is the voice behind popular song, 'Johnny.' The diva who describes herself as the girl next door, spoke to Weekend Magazine, about her recent BET and MTV Mama nods as well as the story behind 'Johnny' and her branching into acting.

You were recently nominated for both the BET and MTV MAMA awards. How did you receive the news? Please describe those first moments and did you see it coming?

It is difficult to describe. I received the news with an unfathomable joy in my heart. The MTV MAMAs news came barely three hours after I was nominated for four Nigerian Entertainment Awards. I was grateful, humbled and thankful. It also boosted my zeal to keep doing what I do. I feel one step closer to bagging a Grammy award.

How did music begin for you?

Music began at a very tender age. I remember listening to records owned by my parents and siblings. As a young teenager I was a member of the adult choir in church, was very active in school entertainment activities and was a part of a girl group called, 'Notty Spices' at one point; the group dissolved when we (the members) gained admission into different universities. Music has been a vital part of my life.

What gave you your first big break?

There are many moments I can confidently label 'big break.' From winning the maiden edition of Peak Talent Show, signing with Effyzzie Music Group and releasing my single 'GhenGhen Love' to the amazing success of 'Johnny' to the release of my debut album, 'King of Queens.' I am indeed very thankful to God for all these breaks in my career as an artiste, and I believe there are more of such moments to come.

Could you share with us the story behind Johnny and the response there after?

Johnny was recorded in Enugu during my nationwide media tour. It was produced by Selebobo and it narrates the tale of a cheating lover. It is based on a life experience which I unconsciously wrote about during the session. The success of 'Johnny' is jaw-dropping; it is currently the most viewed video by an African female artiste of all time. God gave me the song 'Johnny,' without telling me he was blessing me. If you go online you will see dance videos made by fans across the world, from France to the Netherlands to the U.S.A to Canada.