Aramide Sarumoh was on Star Quest in 2006, one of Nigeria’s most prestigious and competitive music talent hunt shows. She did very well in the competition and, in 2008, she was a part of Divas Unplugged in the famous city of Jos, which featured all the leading female artistes in the Nigerian music industry. The quintessential musician, whose remake of Davido’s ‘Ekuro’ went viral, recently signed on to Baseline Record label. She shares her passion for music with Adetutu Audu.
WHAT made you participate in Star Quest, a reality TV show at the initial stage?
I was in my early years in the university as at the time and was very passionate about music and song writing. I heard about the competition and I felt I had an edge because I play a musical instrument and I was a girl. I wanted to explore my talent and the growing industry too. That was the beginning of my musical journey. After Star Quest, I started working with producers writing more, and the passion grew and I knew as time went by that I wanted to make it a career.
At what point in your life did you decide music was the perfect choice?
Music started for me when I was a kid. My daddy used to listen to a lot of soul and jazz music growing up and, somehow, I got inspired. Initially, it was a hobby and gradually it became a passion for me. So, I would say music started for me a long time ago. Although professionally, I would say it started about three years ago.
What inspired your singles “It’s over”, “I don’t mind” and “Feeling this feeling”?
All three songs are love songs. “It’s over” was inspired by a break up story. “I don’t mind” on the other hand was inspired by societal norms about love, and “Feeling this feeling” by a poem. I write sometimes based on personal experiences what’s happening around me and what I watch, read or hear.
Getting signed on Trybe Records was a big deal for you then. Why did you leave?
It was time to leave; there is a time for everything
What is Baseline offering you?
Something good. Baseline is where we can bounce ideas. I like the fact that no man is an island; everyone’s idea is welcome.
How would you describe your kind of music?
My music most of the time is soothing. It’s a fusion of African language and African sound. It is something I have come to call Afro soul.
How will you describe your sense of style?
My style is very simple and expressive. I am just a jean and t-shirt kind of person and I wear my natural hair most times.
From the ‘good girl’ look you started off with, you are becoming more adventurous with your fashion. Tell us about this transition
I have come to love fashion; I think for me it’s been gradual, fun and adventurous. I’ve been working with a couple of stylists and people that help project me through style and make up. It has been a learning process and I am still exploring how to balance conservative, contemporary and chic without being boring or overly dressed.
No doubt, fame comes with pain and gain. Can you share some with us?
Being an alternative artist comes with challenges. There are the good and the bad days. In fact, a career or an industry that requires you to be seen and heard is on its own very difficult. I’ve had my fair share of pain and gain and I would say it has helped me to be strong. Whether you are hard working or not, there’s the good side and the crazy part as well.
Who would you say influenced you early in life; the good, the bad and the ugly?
I would say my family and friend are my biggest cheerleaders. They have influenced me a great deal, especially my writing. Also, my role models and musical icons, to mention a few, like India Arie, Erykah Badu, Mariam Makeba, Colbie Cailat, Alicia keys influenced my singing and song writing as well.
What heights do you hope to attain in your music career?
I want to be an international music icon. Produce ever green music for generations to come and have a successful music career.
Which fashion item is hot for you now?
The year is almost running to an end. Musically, how you would describe the year?
A lot of great music came out this year and I believe 2015 will be a huge year for alternative artists in Nigeria.
