From Ighomuaye Lucky, Benin
Fast rising musical artiste, Osariemen Obadiaru, also known as I-Ray Obas has said female fans are integral part of the music industry but he has learnt to maintain proper balance, in his quest to take his career to the peak.
I-Ray Obas who spoke with journalists in Benin said musical lyrics should go beyond ‘Nyash’ and women’s waist, stressing that there are lots of things happening around, which artistes could sing about and through their songs redefine the values and norms in the society.
He said the late Bob Marley’s music has remained evergreen despite him being dead for several decades, because of his lyrics.
His words: “I love Bob Marley a lot. I like Bob Marley because of his kind of music. So I will say he is my number one mentor and if we come to Nigeria, I like 2Face Idibia.
“He has been there and you know, his kind of music too. I love it.
“I learnt a lot from them that music must not just be all about ‘I love you, you have ‘Nyash’ you have this, you have that, you know, there are more good things to sing about in your music than big waist.
“So, that’s what I actually learnt from Bob Marley to be precise.”
The Afro reggae fusion artiste maintained that he is not into competition with anyone in the industry rather than to be himself and give his best to his fans.
The now sought after musical artiste, while speaking on the government’s role in the entertainment industry, said that their roles can never be overemphasized because the industry is capital intensive.
He said a little push from the government can really help the young and up coming artistes to pursue their dreams.
He further commended the Chief Executive Officer of Real Knock Entertainment, Chief Matthew Oshodin, for his role in grooming the up and coming artistes in Edo State, saying with his contributions to the sector, they are sure of reaching the zenith of their career.
“I have a management deal with the Real Knock Entertainment and it has been very wonderful. You know, ever since I have been working with him, he has been trying to see how we can take this career to the next level.
“I must applaud him because he is really doing a great job. And I also perform at his lounge, “Surprise Pub and Cafe” to improve my skills every Sunday,” I-Ray Obas said.