A moment with Kedike Star

Ekile Chidinma

CHIDINMA EKILE, 23, is a vibrant Nigerian singer. She won West Africa MTN’s Project Fame Season Three in 2010 and is widely recognised for her song, Kedike, that has been gracing local airwaves. She will perform in Nairobi next week in a concert dubbed 9JA Night. GARDY CHACHA spoke to her

Who is Chidinma?

I am a recording artiste from eastern Nigeria.

How was it growing up?

I grew up in Lagos. It was not rosy, as my parents had to work very hard to educate and provide for my five siblings and I. However, I have some fond memories of my childhood.

How did you end up participating in Project Fame?

A friend downloaded the form, sent it to me and encouraged me to apply. I never imagined I would win, but I am happy I did.

Did you always want to sing?

I always wanted to be a performer. I started from the junior choir in my church, but never thought I would get this far. Music is very competitive in Nigeria. I am glad Project Fame exposed me to the world and propelled me into prominence both at home and in other countries.

How was your experience at the Project Fame academy?

It was intensive. Everything from the vocal training sessions to the weekly live performances and eviction nights amounted to an unforgettable experience.

How did it feel winning the edition and what was the prize?

I felt (and still feel) blessed; truly blessed. I won a brand new Toyota Rav 4 and N2.5 (2.5 million Naira). That is an equivalent of Sh1.4 million. I also won a recording contract.

What is your educational background?

For both primary and secondary school, I studied in Lagos. I am currently a student at the University of Lagos studying Sociology.

In Kenya, there is a feeling that Nigerians come across as cocky and ‘full of themselves’. What are your sentiments?

I feel we are wonderful people, only a bit aggressive and driven, but loving all the same. We are different, but desire for one Africa despite our flaws.

What do you know about Kenya and its neighbours?

It’s a beautiful country with remarkable wildlife. I love wildlife.

What do you feel about coming to perform in Nairobi?

I am very excited. I have a feeling it’s going to be a huge experience.

How do you expect the show to turn out?

It will be marvellous. In Nigeria, I would say ‘the bomb’. The performance will be exciting and we expect fans to have an experience of a lifetime.

Is this your first time to perform outside Nigeria?

No. I’ve been on the road a lot, but it will be my first time in East Africa.

Tell us about Kedike and Jankoliko…

They are the first two singles from my debut album. Both are very successful and have greatly contributed to my growing fan base.

The Kedike video has elements of culture and African traditions. Why is that so?

One of my biggest desires in music is to portray an exemplary new age African youth to the rest of the world. Africa has a very rich and untapped cultural heritage and I have this feeling that always wants to identify with my roots.

Which Kenyan musicians do you listen to?

Sauti Soul, Camp Mulla, Fena and Atemi. They are creative and their songs have strong messages.

How would you describe your artistry?

It has a mixture of urban, contemporary, African and pop elements that has blended with West African highlife beats and jazz.

How are you dealing with fame at a young age?

I’m doing sufficiently well. I won’t give it a chance to cloud my personality. It will never get into my head and God has blessed me with a discerning spirit to avoid such kind of scenarios.

How has it changed your life so far?

It really has. I have millions of fans across Africa.

How do you unwind?

I listen to music on my iPod and watch a movie while sipping from a glass of orange juice.

You are petite, healthy and look incredible. Any secrets?

I work out a lot, eat healthy and stay away from vices. As simple as that.

If a diehard fan hit on you, how would you respond?

I would politely try the best I can to ward him off.

Tell us about your family…

I come from a Christian family of six children. My parents are middle class and very focused. As a family, we love one another to bits.

On your Facebook fanpage, you have an artwork of Jesus Christ. Are you that religious?

God is the cardinal reason and force that brought me this far. So I glorify His name every hour of the day.

What impression would you want to leave Kenyans with after your performance?

Mind blowing.

If you weren’t a musician, what would you be?

I love planes a lot, so I would most likely be a pilot.

What do you think of the African girl?

The African girl must identify and chase her dreams. She must be self-sufficient, goal driven, God fearing and must think ‘internafrican’ — think global but understand her roots, too.

What are your plans for the future?

I want to make lots of great music. I will probably go into acting at some point. I also intend to do lots of touring in the near future.

Who is your role model?

My mother. She is focused, strong and determined.

Are you seeing (dating) anyone?

No. I am not in a relationship.

What kind of a girl were you?

Quiet and an introvert.

What don’t many people know about you?

I am stronger than I look. I am far from fragile.

What would you tell Kenyan fans?

I became this popular because my fans stood by me. Thank you so much; I love you all.