Tolu Oyedele popularly known as Mrs Melody is one of the fastest rising music divas storming the Nigerian entertainment scene from the UK. In this interview with ROTIMI IGE, she reveals why she is the next best artiste.
Tell us a bit about your background?
Well, I was born in London and the eldest of four children. I always loved singing in the choir, school plays, drama events etc. I loved being creative in any way possible through drawing, dancing etc.
How was life growing up?
It was great because I loved London as city, there was always so many things to do. My mum was a choir mistress so I would follow her to choir practice many times. My siblings and I were very close and I enjoyed being the eldest child.
What were your fondest memories of early family life?
I have fond memories of my family sitting together eating, watching films and cracking jokes. That was our family time, as well as our parents telling us Bible stories. I loved it all!
When and how did you discover your musical talent?
I discovered it at a very young age, I believe it was partially inherited from my mother because she always wrote songs and led the choir as a child. I think it was while I was in primary school that I knew this was for me.
At what point did you decide to do music professionally?
Well, being the Nigerian that I am, my parents always made us understand that education was very important and that knowledge was power so, after graduating, I realised my passion to perform became so great that I could no longer ignore it.
Who were your earliest musical influences?
Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, I would always dance to King Sunny Ade and Shina Peters as a child.
What kind of music do you do?
It is a clear fusion of my western upbringing with my African flavour. I’m very passionate about my music and how ever I feel is how I write.
Tell us about your songs and the ideas behind them.
My new track, ‘Mr Naija’, talks about how Nigerian guys are always feeling big about themselves and assume that they can always get their new conquests. They like doing ‘fine boy’ (laughs), using their formulas and love to spoil girls. As we say, ‘all na wash’ and coming back to Nigeria, it was the thing in vogue so I was inspired to make them my subject title.
Any collaboration in the making?
Ah, that would be telling you secrets but you won’t be disappointed, keep watching me. You have to stay tuned!
Your stage name, Mrs Melody, tells us about that?
Well as an artiste, I believe I’ll always be married to the music, hence, Mrs Melody.
When you decided to do music professionally, did you have your parents support?
Well, to be honest, my parents were very supportive of me. I understand that a lot of children of African descent don’t receive support when considering music, but I was lucky in that respect. However, you have to persevere always!
What makes you unique?
Well, I believe everyone is unique in their own way, it’s just that my uniqueness is different from the next person. I believe there’s only one of me, no one else can do me like me, my experiences and passions make up the unique fabric of who I am.
What should fans look forward to from you this year?
I can’t wait to share with them my new material, music videos etc. I am just creating more outlets of creativity and connecting with people.
Any album in the making?
I’m always in the studio so let’s watch the space.
What challenges do you face in the Nigerian entertainment industry?
I think I’m still learning, as I never grew up here. I’m constantly learning how things work.
Critics say it is harder to succeed as a female musician in Nigeria. How true is that?
I don’t know if I agree. I think we have examples that prove against that. Tiwa Savage is prime example, I’m always one for girl power.
It is also said that sex sells you faster in the entertainment industry. Is this true?
I don’t know, but I do believe confidence is the right word to use.
How do you spend your normal day?
Well I’m always doing something; if it’s not writing music, then it’s spending time with my friends. I love being busy.
What would you consider your best natural bodily assets?
I love my eyes and my shape.
What do you like most about yourself?
My determination and perseverance to achieve what I want to achieve, also my creativity.
How do you relax?
Well, I love going to the cinema and restaurants. I also love to read.
Would you consider yourself a fashionable person?
I’ve been told I am.
Favourite fashion item(s)?
Dresses, shoes and bags.
What is your most expensive fashion item?
Burberry Handbag.
How many do you own?
One.
Tell us about some of your passions?
I love dancing, good food and learning new things!
Tell us something many people don’t know about you?
That I have a Batman shaped birth mark at the back of my thigh.
Your ideal man would possess…
Confidence, ambition and must have the ability to make me laugh...
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