‘My mother taught me how to sing’

Samuel Allison is a National Diploma 1 Journalism student at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) in Ogba, Lagos. He is also an upcoming hip-hop artiste who plays at students’ shows. He shares his aspirations with SAMSON UWALA (ND II Journalism).

Can you tell us about your background?

I grew up in Ogba Aguda in Lagos, where I attended both primary and secondary schools. By a stroke of fate, I have found myself at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), which is also located in Ogba Aguda. So, all education I have received in my life is from this place.

How did you discover your passion for music?

Music has been my dream since I was a child. I imbibed the habit from my mother, who is also a singer. She taught me how to compose songs. So, overtime I developed passion for it and it became part of me and there is nothing I have found interesting aside from music. So music is a career for me; it is my calling.

What genre of music do you do?

I am into secular music. I sing hip-hop specifically, but I combine it with some touch of Afrobeat. At times, I do rap but I don’t see myself as a rapper. I want to be versatile in all arrear of hip-hop to make my music flexible.

How many songs have you released?

I have two songs to my credit for now and they are being played on radio. I have new songs but I mostly sing them at students’ shows and other social events. I have been getting commendations from people, who always want me to perform. I have proven my ability in music. People are applauding my talent and I am very proud about it.

How do you rate yourself in the music industry?

One thing in life is that, you should not copy what people are doing. If you do this, it means you are trying to be like others and don’t expect to go beyond them. That is a limitation one may have. The industry is wide and can accommodate all shades of talents. Music is not something anyone should do because you have people in the industry. You must have a passion for it and create your own brand. I have a unique trademark, which many people may not know because of the level of my popularity. But, people who have listened to my music know my ability. Within a little time, I believe my brand will be accepted by generality of hip-hop lovers. So, I can’t copy anyone; I will always be myself.

How do you plan to cope with academics and music?

It has not been easy for me doing music and studying. And I have not seen anyone, who says it is easy. But, the truth is that, in life, one should have a dream, which we must pursue. I think being a student has helped my career in music and music can also help my studies. I believe combining both will do a lot of help. As it is now, I cannot leave my academic pursuit for music and vice versa. I have some songs, which I have just completed in the studio. I believe being a student will make people accept these songs. So, combining music and schooling together is not a big challenge for me.

What is your message to your fans?

My fan base is growing by the day and this gives me the courage to do more in music. To my fans, I want them to continue to believe in me and ability. I want to put in more effort to do good music that will get them excited. With the support of God, I believe what I am doing will take me to places. So, I promise my fans that I will not let them down.