10 questions for Idahams

Since then, Idahams has taken steps in the music industry, morphing into a songwriter and producer and working with such artists as Duncan Mighty, Danny Boy, Mr 2Kay, Solidstar and others. In 2016, he signed with Grafton Records and has released the singles 'Anything For You', 'Toast', 'Heal the Land' and his latest, 'No One Else'. Recently, he had an exchange with Music In Africa.

MUSIC IN AFRICA: Congratulations on the release of your new video ‘No One Else’. Could you talk about the process of creating this particular song?

IDAHAMS: 'No One Else' was made in a hotel in Port Harcourt. A producer friend named TU2 emailed me the beat and I travelled with my mobile studio, so I started freestyling and recording at the same time on the beat. The song was actually inspired by Davido and Chioma’s relationship.

Interestingly, 'No One Else' was recorded even before Davido’s 'Assurance'. In fact, after I finished recording the song, I tried to get Davido to jump on it, but to no avail. Finally, my label [Grafton Records] decided to release it as a single and got Clarence Peters to shoot the video.

Are there any plans for a remix of the song?

Absolutely. Fingers crossed.

The new song sounds very different from your other single ‘Toast’, which is itself different from your earlier single, 2016’s ‘Anything For You’. What has changed for Idahams as a recording artist in two years?

I make an effort to build myself and grow within and outside myself. My music is a reflection of myself at a particular point in time and that also amplifies my uniqueness. You talked about 'Toast' and 'Anything For You' but the process continued with the creation of 'God Can Bless Anybody' and 'Heal The Land'. These are various facets of sounds that make me unique.

With all of the different elements you have employed so far, how would you describe your music?

Very simple! I’m a lover boy who preaches and practises love.

You started your music career in Port Harcourt. In recent times, we've had Burna Boy, Timaya and Mr 2Kay move to Lagos from that city. How are the music scenes different from each other? I like to imagine Port Harcourt is less crowded.

Less crowded? Not really. There are lots of talented musicians in PH City just as there are in Lagos and probably other parts of Nigeria. The fact is Lagos is the centre of entertainment in Nigeria and the market is as big as the attention it commands. So the move for a lot of people like me is basically guided by a dream: why struggle within a zoo when there's a whole jungle to conquer? In summary, I'll rather be a big fish in a big pond instead of a big fish in a small pond.

Do you feel any sort of pressure given the commercial success of those three artists?

Let's not forget Duncan Mighty who has been doing very well before and in recent times. For me acceptance into the Lagos market wasn’t easy for them at that time but thank God they were able to succeed through hardwork and persistence. I don't feel pressured at all; I just believe that everybody who puts in work will eventually reap the fruit of their labour. I am building a true fan base and I believe I will shine as bright and everybody would see, soon.

Are there any artists you would like to collaborate with?

Definitely. I always got love for Simi and would really love to do a song with her. I also love Tiwa Savage, Davido, Flavour, Yemi Alade... it's an endless list.

Many upcoming acts say the Nigerian music industry is a difficult space. What is your experience so far?

I quite agree but I also understand that success is a process groomed by hard work and persistence. I think every upcoming act needs time and if you’re true to the music, you will excel.

It's the Christmas season. How is Idahams spending the holidays?

You know that Christmas is always a busy time for artists 'cause there are shows here and there. For me, I don’t even know where and how I would spend Christmas yet. I have been booked for various events already in December. I also have a media tour in between [Lagos and Port Harcourt]. But I'll be happy to spend the Christmas working. I won't complain.

What is next for Idahams? Are there any plans for an album, another single, a tour? What can fans expect in 2019?

For now, I'll like everybody to see my new video and raise the views to a million for me. While at that, I am working some collaborations and my first EP is undergoing finishing touches to be released in 2019. I'm working and please keep an eye on me 'cause it would be worth your while.