By Agatha Emeadi
Dare Art Alade, popularly known as Darey, is the creative director of Livespot360.
He is an Afro R&B singer, songwriter, record producer and philanthropist.
He is not too surprised of his career rise as he was born into a music family. He is the son of the legendary Nigerian Jazz pioneer, Art Alade and Olapeju Alade. Darey started horning his skill at a young age by singing with the Cathedral choir, and later the National Troupe of Nigeria choir. At 15 years, he has started performing at pubs within and outside Lagos.
It was at such night jigs that a top Cool FM radio station executive valued his voice and ability to engage the audience.
Thus their discussions started and Dare started making trips between Cool FM and University of Lagos, where he was pursuing a degree in Music.
In an interview with Sunday Sun, Darey revealed how fortune smiled on him.
“While working with Cool FM, I gained knowledge of the foundation of radio production and marketing. I have served as a coach, judge, host on several television programmes, which showcased me on bigger platforms like Project Fame West Africa and Nigerian Idol.
“Today, I have many nominations in my name as a successful disc jockey, presenter, performing and recording artist, radio and TV personality, all rolled into one and attached to his name,” he said.
How did you get into the entertainment industry?
Asides from having been born into a family of music and entertainment, I have always been involved in the various creative activities such as music, theatre, dance, radio and television etc. I also had the opportunity to study creative arts at the University of Lagos, where I graduated with a degree in Music.
How did you rise to stardom? Share the experience that blew you up?
I think my earliest big breaks came from being an OAP on Lagos’ biggest radio station 96.9 Cool FM back in 1999. From working in the production studio, cutting commercials to handling the biggest shows such as breakfast and drive time etc. I also trained other people and oversaw various aspects of the business over the subsequent years I worked there. Thereafter I pursued my music career by registering for Project Fame, a well-known Reality TV show and continent-wide talent hunt in 2004. It was the only continent-wide edition that has happened so far, where my talents were showcased in the presence of over 100million people and I emerged third in that contest. It was for the world to experience. These two played a huge part in shaping my career in the industry in many different ways.
Parents then loved professionals like doctor, lawyer, engineers etc, what were your parents’ feelings when you showed interest in music and entertainment then and now that you have made it?
I have always enjoyed immense support from my family. Up till now, they are still my strongest support system. I would encourage parents to show their kids love and encouragement, but they must also ensure they get other training and educational qualifications to prepare them for the future because music and the creative process are largely passion driven and tough to convert into commercial success often times.
How are you coping with the rise?
Thankfully, hard work, consistency and patience blended with a lot of God’s grace have been the key drivers in my life’s journey.
What opportunities has being in the industry brought you? Also talk about the challenges the rise brought as well?
I have been to many cool places around the globe, met some amazing people and fellow artists, performed to millions of people directly and via television and other platforms. These are just a few of the fantastic opportunities I have had so far. But it has not always been easy or rosy.
The challenges faced over time include funding, translating dreams into reality, various forms of distractions and the usual curveballs that life throws at us.
How is the society treating you as an entertainer, share an experience?
I am fortunate enough to enjoy a massive amount of goodwill and respect across the industry. This can be largely attributed to the way my team and I have consistently worked hard to bring the best of ourselves and projects to the world. In addition, we continually strive to create opportunities for everyone within the industry, from training to job creation etc.
How was growing up like, talk about your family, parents and siblings?
My growing up was filled with love and happiness. I seldom have any negative memories of growing up.
What advice would you give to aspiring entertainers?
Keep at it. Work on yourself and your craft. Do not take no for an answer and keep on trying to try. Failure to do so means you will never succeed. So, keep pushing regardless of the challenges.