Mike
Okri is one artiste whose loud presence in
the Nigerian music scene positively impacted and turned-around the music stage
in the 1990s and early 2000. Albeit his
relocation to the United States of America, his songs, most of which remain
evergreen (e.g. Time Na Money, Omoge,
Rhumba Dance, etc.) are still being enjoyed by old and young generations of
Nigerians.
In a very brief interview with Splendid! Magazine he spoke about music,
and his plan to establish a massive entertainment empire in Nigeria.
Thank you for having me on this interview Vwede.
Nothing I could say particularly prompted
my relocation. I could say I was spirit-driven to make that change and have no
regrets.
What happened to your music? Did your relocation
affect your music?
Nothing has changed about my music. What happened
is that my being outside the shores has made me a better artist/musician.
Though some could see it differently, having not been physically present. But
remember, I was one of the pioneers who started what the young artists are
doing today.
The only difference is that what they are selling
now, lack depth and hold no brighter future for the industry. Hence, I could
admit that the absence of the likes of me has affected the music of our golden
dreams. That is why we must all come back to contribute our quota and/or
start where we left off to build an evergreen bridge across a murky swampy
cacophonous riffs and rhythms we parade as music in Nigeria these days. (No
offence please. My opinion).
What has life been like outside Nigeria?
Life has been good with family and my desire for
little gigs here and there. Not big time though, I just like globe-trotting if
you ask me... (smiles). After all, I don't need to also worry about the fact
that we don't have regular electricity, pipe borne water and even security
in Nigeria like we do in the U.S here... (giggles).
How would you rate the Nigeria music industry?
Like I said before, we need brace ourselves
for tougher times ahead. We need more creativity to meet greater challenges and
not just being mere copy-cats. We need to be originators of music that would
last a lifetime. However, I duff my hat for a few young folks (producers and
singers without mentioning names) who are working hard to preserve a true Nigerian
music legacy.
What do you miss the most in Nigeria? Why?
At the moment I couldn't say I miss anything. I
only believe that if my ways are ordered by God, He would direct my
steps coming home to contribute my quota in his own due time. Truly, I’d
be glad to want to come and add more spice and possibly choose a better
musical path for our youths to tread and embrace.
Any advice for younger generation of Nigerian
musicians?
My advice is that, anything that is worth doing, is
worth doing well. If you as a youth is not cut out to be an artist, don't
force your way doing it, only to miss your divine destiny.
Besides, there's no short cut to anything. Get educated to
better understand your bearing and also add value to yourself and
what you do.
Looking back, if given another opportunity, what
would you do differently. Why?
Looking back? Looking back to where? Let me ask
you, who can turn back the hand of a divine clock as ordained by God? Listen,
what is done is done and cannot revert. Opportunities come and go. You can only
give account of those within your grasp. You know what we all should be
grateful for? That we are alive and still breathing to testify of what is
to come. So to answer your question, as long as God still keeps me alive, I
know I still have so much to give in the near future, musically...to God be the
glory...(laughs).
Do you have intentions of permanently relocating to
Nigeria? If yes, when?
Yes, I come home every year. So my desire
is to come and establish an empire that will help build a formidable
entertainment industry. It takes the divine favour and grace of the Almighty God
and money and not just mere word. Thank you....
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