Nigerian musician, Okoro Uwale (aka Essence), has been around since 2004.In this interview, she spoke to JOAN OMIONAWELE about her career, scandals and private life.
You’ve been around for a long time. How was it like starting as a female in the Nigerian music industry?
I would say it was very difficult. It was like trying to cultivate on virgin soil. You didn’t know what sound to go with because there was basically no sound. R&B was a hit-or-miss case, unlike now that it’s widely accepted. I should say we suffered for what is now being enjoyed. But we thank God.
How did you get into the Nigerian music industry?
I started music professionally in 2004; but before that, I had been doing background vocals for various artistes and soundtracks for soap operas, including Super Story, Dominoes, Secrets and Scandals.
What has Essence been up to lately?
Essence has been diversifying into other aspects of entertainment. I am also venturing into hospitality, because I have my own ushering outfit called Hello Events.
You’ve been around for a long time. How was it like starting as a female in the Nigerian music industry?
I would say it was very difficult. It was like trying to cultivate on virgin soil. You didn’t know what sound to go with because there was basically no sound. R&B was a hit-or-miss case, unlike now that it’s widely accepted. I should say we suffered for what is now being enjoyed. But we thank God.
How did you get into the Nigerian music industry?
I started music professionally in 2004; but before that, I had been doing background vocals for various artistes and soundtracks for soap operas, including Super Story, Dominoes, Secrets and Scandals.
What has Essence been up to lately?
Essence has been diversifying into other aspects of entertainment. I am also venturing into hospitality, because I have my own ushering outfit called Hello Events.