Signed to Sax Records, the fast rising entertainer recently had a heart to heart chat with Rasheed, and he talked about music, his ambassadorship projects and relationship with top seed actress, Stella Damasus. Enjoy!
When did you start making music?
Music for me started in 1999. I was very young then, but I became serious with it in 2002 when I went for the first Star Quest competition audition alongside Kc Presh, Mamuzee, Samsung and Klint d Drunk. I came fourth in Benin and since then, it’s been music all along.
When did you record your first song?
The first song I recorded was Common and it was produced by Remmy, who was in Jahuuwa studio, which was the biggest studio in Ajugunle then. The song was about a girl that was lively, jumping around with different names. That was also the song I used at Star Quest which got me the fourth position and at the Lagos State Upcoming Music Star competition where I came second. Africa China was also in that competition.
What’s your relationship with Africa China?
My relationship with China is still very cordial. I call him my big bros, and till tomorrow, any where I see him, or he sees me, there is mutual respect. He was also there to support me at the recent concert I did in the prison.
A lot has been said about your relationship with popular actress, Stella Damasus, what’s actually between you guys?
Stella Damasus nah my mama o, I beg. Though people misinterpret a lot; some said we are dating; others are of the opinion that she’s just using me, but I’m telling you officially, Stella Damasus is like a mother to me. She stood by me when there was no one for me; when things were rough and difficult.
What are you working on presently?
As you know, I’m signed to Sax Records owned by Yemi Sax. I’ve known Yemi Sax for years and he’s being a very good friend, and also one of the few persons in the industry that believes strongly in me.
We’ve been recording and doing stuff. You know, there comes a time in a man’s life that he’ll need to cut off from the world to re-brand himself. This is my re- molding period. I did a song with Olamide, titled ‘Gbaladun,’ and I tell you, it has millions of downloads already. The song has gone wide even without a video or any official radio publicity. I’ve also worked with other talented artistes like Skuki, Oyinkansola, Sexy Steel and Ice Prince. Most of the songs were produced by Yemi Sax and Black Jezy
Your anti crime project is becoming more popular, what keeps you going?
Part of what keeps me going is the story of Jesus Christ. I’m not so holy, and I’m not claiming to be a saint, but I have a strong relationship with God. When Jesus came into the world, he dined and wined with everybody. There was a point he talked about the prison, prostitutes and gamblers. I also reasoned that, after all, I’m going to die one day, then what will be my contribution? Am I just going to come and go without anything to show for it? That propelled me, and I never knew I will get this far with it. I just knew that I could be of help, and from there, one thing led to another. I got an approval from the Comptroller General of Prisons to start staging music concerts in prison, which makes me the first young music act to introduce entertainment into the prison system in Nigeria and I know by the special grace of God, I’m going to take it all over Nigeria. Big names like Oyenka Owennu, Mike Aremu, Fela Durotoye, Stella Damasus, Ay, Ay.com, Solid Star and many I can’t name have all been supportive. It’s all about showing love to the prisoners, so they don’t feel totally rejected.
What has been the response of the prisoners?
They love it; it encourages them. There is something else I do; it’s called Season in Prison. I celebrate every festive season in prison; Christmas, Easter, Eid l- Fitri and Valentine. When you celebrate all this seasons with the inmates, they have a rethink. Perhaps, one of these seasons happen to be the last one he/she celebrated with his/her family, they begin to think back; what do I need to do to become a better person so as to go back to my family? It’s really beyond the musical concert that you are seeing, something is happening in someone’s mind in there. And with the help of God, last year, I was able to get freedom for 32 prisoners. Thanks to all the musicians and people that have supported the cause.
Do you get any form of sponsorship and support, or has it been you all alone?
I’ve never been sponsored by any company or brand; all things are done with my little earnings and supports from friends. Media houses have also been supportive for the past three years. This project nearly shut down my music career totally because I didn’t release any song, and it got to a stage people were saying that I’m stupid, and that I’m a criminal using the prison to cover up. I also thank God for the NDLEA ambassadorship which is even on a bigger platform; it’s a national appointment.
How has it been as a NDLEA ambassador?
I got my appointment in September last year. First, it was a little bit challenging because I had to learn more about drug abuse. I’ve been doing my research, and likewise working with some officials. And I will tell you this, E24-7 Magazine is the first media house I’m telling about my forthcoming massive campaign against drug abuse. It’s called WALK TO LIVE. It’s going to be a massive walk that will gather people from different walks of life, and it’s coming up probably in June. Hopefully, the Lagos State government will be partnering; NDLEA, United Nations, UNICEF, the banking sector are also going to be involved. You know when we talk about drug abuse, people think about cocaine or marijuana, but it’s beyond that. There are other available drugs. There are also Gateway drugs that are available, and you can’t arrest people for. I ask, can one be arrested for sniffing petrol, rubber or latrine just to get intoxicated? There are so many drugs you can’t arrest people for using, so the best way is to educate people. My co- ambassadors, Stella Damasus and Kaffy, the dance queen will also be involved in this.
I also use this oppourtunity to appeal to the people reading this interview that we need sponsors for this great work.
Lastly, what is your advice to colleagues in the industry and upcoming stars?
Firstly, my advice to other artistes; I know many have made mistakes, but you should keep working hard, never give up on your dreams, don’t place limitations on yourself. Open your eyes and explore more. Think about life after music; what happens to you after music, The career span of hip hop is not so long compared to that of Fuji musicians, you know. Humble yourself when you blow up; it’s not the time for you to be arrogant, because it is the same step you use while climbing up that will be used too while coming down. Lastly, make sure you’re useful to the society.
Such An interesting Chat and NDLEA AmbassadoR ride on. I say it again. Advertisers. Use this. Platform to makE ur wears Known Rasheeddfirst haS got wot oders do not. Ride on my brother.
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