- SamLee releases new single ‘In My Head’
By Bianca Iboma-Emefu
The entertainment industry has demonstrated beyond doubt to be one of the sectors that has created the highest youth employment and can create more jobs for our teeming youth.
This is because the industry thrives on the talents, originality, and creativity of its practitioners. The creative economy which emanated from this sector and its allied fields of endeavor whose major product is our diverse culture.
Moreso, with the advent of technology, a creative economy can be established and sustained.
“It has the potential of creative assets that contribute to economic growth and development. It embraces economic, cultural, and social aspects interacting with technology, intellectual property, and tourism objectives.
“The music industry is equally committed to improving metadata for tracking songs on music streaming platforms, following widespread criticism from artists.
Meanwhile, fast-rising Afro-Urban Nigerian artist Adewunmi Ayobami Samuel popularly known as SammyLee, is back with another hit single, “In My Head”
“I just released a new song, ‘In My Head’. It’s a song for lovers. When you have someone that you probably cannot get out of your head, they are always on your mind; a danceable Afro-Urban song.
“The music tells a story of love in the pursuit of happiness. You have this person who leaves your thoughts. The person has a mental picture in your head. I like writing love songs. I call myself a love doctor or minister of enjoyment, tropical vibes, and reality check.”
His desire to make music comes from a deep passion and love for and sharing.
Artists are driven by a need to connect with others through their music, to express themselves, and to evoke emotions in their listeners. They are constantly searching for ways to improve their craft, to push boundaries, and to reach new audiences.
SammyLee said as a musician, the thrill of performing live and seeing the reaction of the crowd is what drives them to keep pursuing their dream. The sense of accomplishment that comes from creating something original and unique can be incredibly satisfying and fulfilling.
“While the music industry can be tough and competitive, musicians are willing to overcome any obstacles to share their music with the world. They understand that success doesn’t happen overnight and are willing to put in the hard work and dedication required to make their dreams a reality.
“Ultimately, the desire to make music, is a powerful force that drives musicians to keep creating, performing, and sharing their art with the world, no matter the challenges they may face along the way.
Speaking about his musical journey and his motivations. SammyLee stated, that though he has had to face tough realities, developing skills in musical instruments, helped him navigate the industry, especially with the competition he faced in carving a niche for himself in Ghana, which he achieved through God’s grace.
He said music is resounding in musicians and for me, no mountain is too high and there are no challenges unsurmountable in the goal of getting your music to an audience no matter how small.
SammyLee said: Apart from singing, I am a producer and equally skilled with several instruments that include piano, guitar, and drum set among others.
The songwriter said he has too many things rolled into one. In the creative industry, you need to develop your skills and practice. Rehearsing songs, and practicing instruments is learning and could improve your skills professionally.
Additionally, he said: “I started music as a child while I was just eight years old. My father bought me musical instruments and I started playing drum set, while I was singing in the children’s choir in our local church.
“At 17, after my secondary school education, I started doing music professionally and went to the studio for recordings. I later released two singles before proceeding to the University of Ghana.
“While in Ghana, I rose to the limelight after doing some collaborations with famous music stars, such as Ice Prince, Mr Eazi, DJ EniMoney, Skales, D-Black, Jobe London. These are top stars that could be likened to Nigerian celebrities like Davido and Wizkids.
“I actually started music fully in Ghana. I made music in their studio if I was not in school. I had several recordings. It was when I first got to Ghana, we had an International students welcome party and I informed the organizers that I would love to perform and he obliged. The opportunity given created a platform for me because after my performance I went into some studios in Ghana and started recordings.
“It was during one of my recordings that the owner of the studio called and informed me that he would like to sign me up.
“He heard what I sang on the Rapas song and was impressed that is how my professional journey in music began flourishing. It took a different shape, I must admit.
“Well, it was a gradual process and because I can play a musical instrument it became an added advantage, that helped me tremendously. My style is Afro-Urban which was unique for me. I started to do deals and performances outside the campus. I started to do songs in collaboration with some stars in Ghana
“I remember going to the studio for the first time when I met Davido and Wizkids, in Ghana around 2012. Performing with these popular artists I gained more recognition and popularity as the stars became my starting point.
“Furthermore, I draw inspiration from everything around me, sometimes from my emotions whenever I am sad, happy, or otherwise. Sometimes from love scenes.
“I am a deep thinker I can imagine a scenario and make music.”
Assessing the music industry, SammyLee said the industry is big and currently on a global stage. We are winning Grammys which initially was a dream. I am happy we are on a global scale and the opportunities are staring at us. We can get enough of Afrobeat right now.
He added that back home in Nigeria, what is actually needed is a structure. We need a proper structure that would help creatives protect their works, that is the path we are struggling with right now. With time we would get there.”
SammyLee urged the government to create artists’ own platforms that would help the government get much of their royalties: “Most of the time, our top artists are signed by foreign labels and most of the time we don’t get all the revenues going. The largest share of the revenue is going out of the country. The likes of Burna Boy, Wizkids, and Davido are all signed to foreign labels. If we have our own invested Platform, all our returns on investment are coming back home. With that, we can build our nation. Music is the best means of generating wealth for Africa right now.”
SammyLee encouraged upcoming artists to trust God in all they do: “Also, develop their skills. You need to understand the market and go through the process, develop yourself and those looking for a shortcut to wealth. A lot is involved in achieving success. You need to spend time developing your vocals and skills generally. Just continue to improve yourself and link up with those who are willing to grow with you.
“I would be releasing my debut EP after this single working with top stars. It’s a pan-African movement. The EP is called ‘Making A difference‘, soonest.”