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–El’vee, UK-based Nigerian singing twins
•We took a risk relocating to Nigeria to play music
By Rita Okoye
UK-based Nigerian singing twins, Lilian and Vivian of El’Vee fame have lived abroad for years, but now they are back home to take their Afrobeats sound to the next level.
El’Vee’s sounds come with infectious vocal harmonies that reflect not just the African culture and heritage, but also their artistic individuality. In November 2022, the duo released an EP titled, U.A.R (Unapologetic African Rhythms), which simply defines their individual personality, embodying and loving who they are – unapologetic Africans, unafraid of the sound, culture and power of the black nation.
Known for their ability to empower through music, Lilian and Vivian, who are inspired by authenticity and feminine drive, in this interview share their musical odyssey, reasons for relocating to Nigeria, love life and lots more. Enjoy it, please.
Can you tell us more about yourself?
We are independent Afropop twin sisters, Lilian and Vivian, who are also known as El’Vee.
How did music start for you?
We started singing in church at a young age. However, professionally, we started our music career in 2012.
How has the journey been doing music as identical twins?
It’s an amazing experience doing what we love, with whom we love. So, we’re grateful to God.
Are there times you don’t agree to a sound or lyrics? How do you deal with that?
Of course, we’re humans. Most times, we hear each other out and agree on what’s best. Other times, we just bring in a third party.
Despite the economic situation of the country, why did you take the risk of returning to Nigeria to focus more on your music?
It is always a risky step when you make a life-altering decision like pursuing a music career in Nigeria. But we’re grateful that we work by faith and not by sight, so we believe that we will succeed, despite the economic situation.
How’s life in the UK as Afrobeats singers before you relocated to Nigeria?
Prior to doing music professionally, we worked as promoters of Afrobeats and Afrobeats artistes. Although, there aren’t a lot of chart-topping UK Afrobeats artistes, the genre is loved and listened to by a lot of people.
Can you share the titles of some of your songs with us?
We recently released our debut EP titled, UAR (Unapologetic African Rhythms). On it, we have some amazing songs like Jealousy, Nkwa, and Need You. Unfortunately, we don’t have a favourite; we love them all.
What inspires your songs, especially Jealousy?
A lot of things, like past experiences, old skool music, and artistes like Lijadu Sisters, who are also twins inspired Jealousy.
Who are those you look up to in the Nigerian music industry?
We look up to quite a number of people, especially the Nigerian female music stars.
Are you thinking of possible collaboration with any of the top acts like Wizkid, Davido, Tiwa Savage, Burna Boy and Asake?
We’re definitely open to collaboration. However, it’ll be awesome collaborating with Asake, Burna Boy.
Aside music, what else do you do to make ends meet?
We’re creative entrepreneurs, and our creative expression spans music, fashion and product design.
What are those things that make both of you different personalities?
We always say that we’re two different people. For instance, Viv likes to cook, and Lil prefers cleaning.
Have your boyfriends, friends or parents ever mistaken you for each other? Can you share the funny experience?
Not really, but our dad used to get our names wrong sometimes. He knew the difference but he would sometimes call us each other’s name.
Have you ever thought of getting married to twins?
No. Vivian is already taken.
What’s next for El’Vee?
World domination and spreading our gospel of faith.
What’s your fashion style?
Cool, edgy, a little eccentric and fun.
What’s your favourite Nigerian food?
We really love Jollof rice and turkey.
