Award-winning Nigerian singer Yemi Alade has shared her perspective on music, considering it more of a hobby than a dedicated career.

Yemi Alade expressed that if given the choice a year ago, she might not have selected music as her primary focus, saying that she views it more as a passion than a job.

“Music was always a passion and I was hoping to see where it would take me. Do I feel like I needed to drop everything I was doing in life and focus solely on music? No. I loved the idea of music but I did not want it to be a career. I did not see it as a career. It was a big hobby I was very invested in. But not a career,” the ‘Johnny’ crooner said.

“If you had asked me 11/12 years ago if I wanted to be a musician, I would not pick that as a career choice. I still wouldn’t do it. As much as I was into a lot of music-related stuff, I just believed that this hobby I would do something with it but I’m going to continue with my academics like my parents want me to. I’m certain I’m going to get a job if music doesn’t work out,” she further stated.

She, however, disclosed her notion changed after she won the Peak Talent Show in 2009 after which she signed to Effyzzie Music Group, and had a hit with her single ‘Johnny’ in 2014.

tiwa and yemi — Yemi Alade and Tiwa Savage

Also, Yemi Alade didn’t mince words when responding to a fan’s attempt at pitting her against colleague Tiwa Savage.

An X user, @ThatNigerianlad didn’t hold back on the social media platform, and proclaimed in her comment section that Yemi Alade stands above the ‘Somebody’s Son’ crooner, Tiwa Savage.

In a thoughtful reply, Yemi Alade advised the fan against comparing them, stressing that such comparisons steal joy.

The ‘Johnny’ singer emphasized that both she and Tiwa are succeeding individually, urging music enthusiasts to support them collectively.

“Comparison is the thief of Joy. We’re both winning…. celebrate and support us all,” the singer tweeted.

Electrifying Performance At The AFCON Opening Ceremony

Yemi Alade made Nigerians proud on the continental stage with a colorful and lively performance at the AFCON opening ceremony.

The 34-year-old has now joined the prestigious list of Nigerian artists who have made grand appearances at sporting events: Davido, Rema, Kizz Daniel, and Burna Boy.

As expected, Yemi Alade wowed the audience with a splendid performance laced with African cultural heritage.

Yemi Alade performed alongside Magic System – a highly competent Ivorian coupé-décalé music combo and the Egyptian actor, rapper, and song composer, Mohamed Ramadan.

Yemi Alade who is often referred to as ‘Mama Africa’ due to her constant depiction of African culture in her songs and style of dressing didn’t fail to replicate the same at the AFCON stage as she exuded Africanity in all aspects.

Consequently, Netizens trooped to the comment section to congratulate and celebrate Yemi Alade.

“Lovely to see Yemi Alade’s dream of performing at a big tournament opening ceremony come true. Though she couldn’t make it to the World Cup, AFCON is a big stage to share. She also shared it with music legends from other countries including the Ivorian group, Magic System, and Egyptian singer, Mohamed Ramadan.
“Her rendition of the AFCON theme song “Akwaba,” meaning “welcome” in Baoule language in Côte d’Ivoire, is musically rhythmic. Her vocalization was top-notch. Not to fail to mention her ebony, queenly-styled Ankara dress. Was a great outing for her. I hope this helps👍.”
@afrisagacity