Olakira – 4play

By starrymag | September 7, 2021

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

 

A) My sound is AfroRnB. That is Afropop infused with a feel of RnB. This is under the genre Afrobeat

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

 

A) Fela Kuti, King Sunny Ade, Michael Jackson, Joe, Style Plus. I grew up listening to these great talents and their influence in my sound is undeniable

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Sere.”

 

A) Like some of the songs on the 4Play EP, “Sere” was recorded during my various travels within Africa for performance. On arrival in Tanzania, I received a very warm reception. The country was so serene and at peace, the people were kind. The feeling in the air and all around was playful unlike my home country where one has to be on alert all the time and I settled in my hotel room in very high spirits. After setting up my mobile studio, the mood and vibe was that of “Sere,” which means “playful” in my Yoruba native language. This can also be roughly translated to “foreplay.” So, like with most of my songs, there is a double meaning. First the vibe was “omoge this kind feeling, omo na special feeling…” During the day, I had a chance to listen to some Tanzania music, zuchu’s voice captivated me immediately. I did not hesitate to hit her up. I really appreciate her contribution to the song, with about three million views on YouTube within a month of release, it’s sure to be a classic

 

Q) What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?

 

A) Good music always speaks for itself. It’s barz from start to finish. The beat and melody are also very catchy.

 

Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?

 

A) The meaning of “Sere” is “playful,” so we thought we would not do anything serious but have fun with the video while showcasing the best of both cultures and fashion.

 

Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

 

A) As a singer-songwriter who doubles as a producer, I start mostly with creating beats, from melodies in my head then I harmonize on the beat before I start writing the lyrics.

 

Q) How much of hand do you have in the production of your music?

 

A) Being a producer, I am heavily involved in the production. In fact, I produce all of my songs at first. Then, we listen as a team and decide on whether to get contributions from other producers, leave it the way it is or reproduce it all together. either reproduce. But my initial production will always serve as a guide to other producers that will contribute or reproduce.

 

Q) What themes do you explore on your new EP 4play?

 

A) Fun, love, and an all-round Happy Vibe.

 

Q) What tracks hold a special place in your heart and why?

 

A) Honestly, I love all the songs on the EP and each song appeals to me differently at different times depending on where I am, what time of the day and sometimes my mood. But “Gotchu” is personal maybe because it’s the story of my first real heartbreak

 

Q) With concerts returning, what songs off your EP are you looking forward to performing live?

 

A) Due to the lockdown, I couldn’t perform the global smash “In My Maserati” in too many places where my fans are really waiting to see me perform and now that shows, and concerts are returning. I can’t wait to perform it live to my fans all around the world from the 4Play I’m really looking forward to performing “Summertime,” “Hot Night” and “For Life.”

 

Q) What do you hope listeners take away from listening to your new EP as a whole?

 

A) That “In My Maserati” was not an accident and the boy makes good timeless music.

 

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?

 

A) Huge concerts and stadiums. This is because I receive more energy from fans at these places. When I feel them it’s easier for me to then bounce off the energy to give more

 

Q) This EP features a collab with Zuchu. Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

 

A) The list is endless but Wizkid, Tiwa Savage, Burna Boy, Chris Brown, Ariana Grande and Justin Bieber are top on my list.

 

Q) What album/band are you currently listening to and why do you dig them? 

 

A) Wizkid’s Made in Lagos, King Sunny Ade and Wasiu Ayinde. These are people who constantly influence my sound to create good and timeless music.

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

 

A) It is so important because it brings the audience and fans closer. We, therefore, engage each other like friends and family, especially the direct messages.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

 

A) I would say a very big thank you for helping me achieve my dreams. Thanks for the love and support. I will always strive to make timeless music. God Bless Always