Musician in Nigeria has proven to be lucrative as many venture into it regardless of what they’ve been known for in the past.
Nollywood actor Saint Obi, was a household name in the movie industry during the 1990 and 2000. He was virtually in every movie that was produced during that period and was dubbed, Nigeria’s most unrivalled actor.
Fast forward to the present day and the actor’s presence is no longer felt in the industry he once pioneered. Some months ago, the iconic actor shocked his fans by venturing into music. In an exclusive chat with Saturday Beats the actor explained why he delved into music.
St. Obi said, “Right now, I am into developing talents that understand music but didn’t have the opportunity to showcase their talents. That is essentially what Agwhyte Music is all about. I have some boys, AM Crew that I have signed on to the record label. As a social crusader, I decided to lend my voice towards achieving global peace and that is why I ventured into singing. I know that it is a tall dream but there is no harm in dreaming. ‘Imagine’ by John Lenon is a song I love a lot but I decided to adapt it to the realities of the 21st century.
Today we have the Isis killing at will, we have the Americans and the Talibans at each other’s throat and there is the issue of the Isrealis and the Palestines. I believe that charity begins at home, if you want global peace you have to start from home and that is what informed the Nigerian slant to the song. In my version of the song, ‘Imagine,’ I said I desire for a day where there would be no quota system in Nigeria. I dream of a day where power supply would be regular. It is a song filled with so much hope and I used it to propagate some of my beliefs and desires. I am not a professional musician but I have passion for music. I used to be a chorister in my church while I was a kid. Despite the fact that people did not see it coming I am glad that I was able to sing.”
The actor turned singer told Saturday Beats that he has received a lot of backlash from fans via the internet but it would not deter him from singing.
“Some people abused me and made so many negative comments but it does not matter. For me what is important is the message and given the chance I would do it all over again. I know that the social media is a platform that people abuse. When people say things and they are objective I don’t mind. As far as I am concerned my song was well made and the video is classy and tasteful. I will make more music but not necessarily the everyday kind of music. My songs would border on social ills. I don’t make music to make money, it is aimed at helping the less privileged,” he said.
