Omoregie
| credits: editor@punchng.com
| credits: editor@punchng.com
Nosa Omoregie sang the hit track, ‘Always pray for you.’ He recounts his journey to music and fame
Why did you sign up to a label that promotes artistes whose lyrics are termed worldly?
I see it simply as working in a company with people of different beliefs. Chocolate City, my record label, indicated interest in helping promote my music and create a wider audience for it. If people listen to my music, they will hear my message. Moreover, the first artiste to have worked with the company was a gospel artiste.
In an industry where the trend is predominantly hip-hop music, why have you chosen gospel/inspirational music?
I have a deep conviction and passion for positive change. I decided to use music, which I consider a powerful tool, to pass my message across to my audience. My beliefs; the urge to be a positive influence in the society; and the passion to cause a change in a decadent society; are the basic reasons for my kind of music.
Are you tempted to try out the hip-hop genre of music?
Not at all.
How financially rewarding has your genre been?
I think it’s a personal thing. In the early stages, it was not very rewarding, but with time and more people appreciating my work and with more effort being put in both mentally and physically, it’s becoming more rewarding.
When and why did you start playing?
I started singing actively in the choir at seven. Everyone in my family was a chorister and I took it as a challenge to be one as well.
What instruments do you play?
None yet. I am learning to play the piano and guitar.
What was/were the first tune(s) you learned?
I cannot remember that. My family members were music lovers and I was exposed to a lot of tunes at an early age. The earliest ones I can remember were from the movie, The Sound of Music.
Which famous musicians do you admire?
Boys II Men, Kim Burell, Fred Hammond, Bob Marley, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, King Sunny Ade, TuFace Idibia, Kirk Franklin, Sir Victor Uwaifo, Michael Jackson and many more. Some, for their musicality; some for their message and how it was delivered but overall, these people and more have influenced me and my music for many years.
Which famous musicians have you learned from?
None directly but I have listened to so many musicians and I’m a product of multiple influences.
How do you handle mistakes during a performance?
I take it all in my stride. I try to make the best of any situation especially by finding the humour in it.
Do you get nervous before a performance or a competition?
Yes. The anxiety comes in varying degrees though.
What advice would you give to beginners who are nervous?
Preparation is key. It boosts confidence. Also, just try to enjoy yourself and know that any performance is just one of many others.
Where do you usually gather songwriting inspiration?
I do that from life as a whole. If there’s something to address, an issue, a norm, a situation, a message, it can be sung about. I usually get the music first, construct and arrange and then write.
Do you think the social media play a role between you and your fans?
Yes, I do agree with that notion. Communication is always key and the fastest way to spread information and receive nowadays is via the Internet.
Apart from music, what else do you do?
I’m a pastor and I want to venture into business in the future.
How do you balance your music with other obligations?
It is all about balance and time management. I don’t give time to what I’m not passionate about and I share my time amongst all obligations.
Give us a peep into your family and educational background?
I’m from a family of 12 children. My father is from Edo State and my mother from Delta State. I studied electrical and electronic engineering at the University of Benin.
Do you have a formal music education?
No, I did not. I have basically relied on my innate abilities.
What do you do to better your act?
I do research and I acquire enough learning resources. I’m very open to contributions and I apply where necessary.
Your single, ‘Always pray for you’ was a hit. What is the inspiration behind the song?
I did that song to give everyone a way of expressing their love to their loved ones. Also, to wish them well in the case of inevitable departure and replace the usual negative emotions that come with saying goodbye. This comes with a responsibility which is praying for their welfare while you make progress.
How do you identify a hit song and what are the elements?
When a song resounds in my head and I want to listen to it over and again and it’s relevant to me, it is a hit. I think the elements of a hit song are: good, unforgettable music, easy lyrics and interesting to remember plus sufficient promotion and publicity.
How eager are you to release a sophomore album bearing in mind the response to the debut album?
I’m very eager but patient. I already started working on a second even before the first was released.
Do you think the gospel/inspirational music industry is progressing as rapidly as others?
I don’t think so. I’m of the opinion however that there shouldn’t be segregation, industry wise, even if the messages are different. Not every genre has the same platform and even then, they are in one industry.
What are your career goals?
I want to be a household name in the music industry and achieve global recognition for my work. I also want to inspire a generation of young people who want to do good music.
Are you in the industry for only the fame and money?
Not at all. I would have changed my message a long time ago if that was my objective. I believe when my purpose is something more meaningful, fame and money will come after me.
What kind of woman would appeal to you?
A humble, wise woman, who fears and loves God. Also, a lady with a good sense of humour.