By Juliet Ebirim

UK- based Nigerian soul singer Chica Michelle is taking the music industry by storm with the recent release of her first soul single ‘True Love’. In this interview, the British-born sensational songwriter shares her plans, musical journey and what makes her tick; Excerpts…

Chica Michelle

When and how did you start doing music?

Music has always been part of me since pre-school days. Growing up I always loved the stage and performed my heart out each time. I started writing my own songs from the age of eleven and would compose songs and organise plays. I took music really serious when I returned back to the U.K. and decided to launch myself as an R&B / soul artiste. I went on a couple of talent shows but nothing came out of it. So I made a firm decision to launch myself as an independent artist. I released my first track – ‘Give Him Praises’ in 2017. It was produced by Seyi Ademiju and I have not stopped since then.

How many songs have you done so far?

I have recorded and released three songs. Including ‘Jesus I love you’ in collaboration with Seyi Ademiju and my latest soul single – ‘True Love’ produced by Nick Best. I have another song in production and will be due by April 2019.

 How would you describe your genre of music?
I am more of a soul singer, but I have some songs which I have not released but will be classed as country music. I also have Christian songs. So I guess my categorisation will be – Soul/country/Christian.

Where do you draw inspiration from?

I draw inspiration from God mostly, my father – Late G.A Osuma Affar Okwesa, who I would be proud to say that he was my first producer, having recorded my first cover at the age of two – I sang Mary had a little Lamb. Other forms of inspiration have come from listening to Michael Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Onyeka Onwuenu, Whitney Houston, Dolly Parton and many others.

Who is your musical influence?

Michael Jackson – I love how he weaves his energy and soul into his work.

What are you currently working on?
I have three projects I’m working on – two music videos and a new audio single

What’s your take on the Nigerian Music Industry?
Nigerian Music is the next phenomenal discovery of many generations to come. I love what Tiwa Savage, Yemi Alade, Simi, and Banky Wellington are doing. Imagine Beyoncé drawing inspiration from Tofo Tofo dancers and PSquare’s music as soundtrack in – “The Queen of Katwe.” I am proud of the Nigeria music industry.

What has been your experience and challenges so far?

I believe that any aspiring artiste’s story varies and that we should not compare. My experience trying to launch my music career was incredibly challenging. I found it difficult finding a sponsor especially when I was in my twenties. The best I did was composing business jungles and voice-overs which were aired on NTA Lagos in the 90s. Coming to the UK made it easier but that was after many struggles which hindered my ability to pursue and advance my music career. I learnt all the way to trust my instincts, believe in myself and to eliminate doubts and its source and not be afraid to be different. The industry is not the best place to be slow, faint hearted and non-innovative. Now am in my 40s am faced with new challenges, but I’m not afraid to do it my way

What is it like doing music in the UK, compared to Nigeria?

Making music in Nigeria is so flexible and their creative abilities are so underrated. In the UK, it’s about affordability. Resources are quite accessible and it makes me feel good giving back to Nigeria by utilizing Nigerian talents.