Gospel music is one of the leading genres of music in Nigeria but with few artistes who stick to it through thick and thin. One of them is Odunlade Akinyemi, popularly known as Da si Oro MI (literally translated as ‘[God]Be involved in my matter’). In this interview with NEWSAFRESH, the Ikere Ekiti-born gopsel artiste talks about his passion for music, challenges and his aspiration.
NEWSAFRESH: Who is Da Si Oro Mi?
AKINYEMI: Dasi Oro Mi is the name given to me as a stage name due to one of the tracks in my album. The name is also the title of the album. My real name is Odunlade Akinyemi.
NEWSAFRESH: What is your educational background?
AKINYEMI: I attended Bobas Nursery and Primary School and Annunciation Secondary School, both in Ikere-Ekiti, my hometown. I proceeded to Ekiti State University where I obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and International Studies.
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NEWSAFRESH: What brought you into music?
AKINYEMI: What brought me into music is the love I have for it; above all, I have the talent, so both work together for good. I have been singing from childhood but I didn’t know it was a talent until I developed it, thanks to God. I’m happy to have this kind of talent and using it for God.
NEWSAFRESH: Why did you choose the gospel genre?
AKINYEMI: I chose the genre because I love praising God and I’m happy with it than with other genres. In fact, I’m a choir member in my church so I have been enjoying the gospel genre from the beginning.
NEWSAFRESH: Who is your role model in the industry?
AKINYEMI: Honestly, I don’t have a role model. I follow God’s instructions and I’m fine with a very good gospel music path filled with God’s messages. I can’t say categorically that I have an earthly role model. God is my role model.
NEWSAFRESH: Whose style do you follow?
AKINYEMI: As I said earlier, I don’t follow anybody nor have a role model. I have my own style which is natural, though people say I sing like Evang. Lanre Teriba, popularly known as Atorise. However, I don’t see myself as such.
My own style of music comes naturally: today I might sing like Evang, Bola Are and tomorrow like Evang. Tope Alabi or Evang. Dare Melody. To me, it’s natural. Any style God put into my mouth, that’s what I bring out. That’s God’s work.
Any time I hear a good beat, I get inspired to sing. In fact, I may compose songs right there. Above all, I know it’s God. I can boldly say God aspires me because he is the source of my inspiration.
NEWSAFRESH: What are the challenges faced by gospel artistes and you in particular?
AKINYEMI: Money. There are many songs on ground for me but I don’t have enough money to go to the studio for my new album. Money will also help me to do some other things such as having my own instruments which I’ll use for shows like wedding, burial, etc.
NEWSAFRESH: Who are the artistes you would like to work with?
AKINYEMI: Wow. If I start mentioning names, we’ll not leave this place. But let me just mention few of them. They are Evang. Olubukola Akinlolu popularly known as (Sewele Jesu), Evang. Tope Alabi, Evang. Dare Melody, Evang. Mike Abdul and Evang. Lanre Teriba (Atorise). Those are the people I wish to work with one day.
NEWSASFRESH: Do you do live shows?
AKINYEMI: Yes, I do live shows every time.
NEWSAFRESH: What’s your message to your fans?
AKINYEMI: They should keep supporting me and praying for me because I am ready to give them the very best of gospel music that will put smiles to their faces.
(Contact Odunlade Akinyemi, aka Da si Oro Mi, on 08063240985, 08147211504)