INTERVIEW: I started singing to lure girls — Shaydee

EME artiste, Shaydee – real name, Shadrach Adeboye, talks about his in music, his label, and hitting the limelight.
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PT: Tell us about yourself.

Shaydee: I’m the second child in a family of four. I was born in Kano state but moved to Lagos at an early age with my family. I’m a graduate of Electrical Engineering from the University of Ilorin, Ilorin. I take family very seriously and I do the very best to make them proud because we all represent our families and various backgrounds in whatever field one is in.

PT: How did you start out in music?

Shaydee: I really didn’t think I knew how to sing but I decided to give it a try with a friend back in secondary school. To be honest, the motivation back then was just getting the ladies with my voice because I obviously thought that was all having the talent was about. As time passed, I realised I could do so much more than just get girls. So I joined the choir, joined an accapella group and that’s how it all started.

PT: How has it been with EME?

Shaydee: EME is a solid family. The label executives (recording artiste, Banky W, and Segun Demuren) are like big brothers to me and they have been more than supportive and encouraging so far. I’m thankful.

PT: You are yet to hit the limelight with your songs, does this put you under some sort of pressure from the label, family or fans?

Shaydee: Pressure? Not at all and I really don’t understand the “limelight.” I am definitely not at the same place as when I started,so there’s major growth and I’m thankful for that. Getting bigger is a guarantee, so in due time, I will get to the top.

PT: Wizkid is the biggest and most prominent star on the label, do you feel challenged by his success?

Shaydee: I don’t feel challenged to surpass Wizkid’s achievement, or anyone’s achievement really. We’re totally different artistes and there’s enough room at the top for all of us to be successful. Wiz’s achievement doesn’t prevent Banky from doing what he does. Same way Banky’s or Wiz’s won’t prevent me from doing what I’m meant to do. If anything, it will hopefully assist me in being bigger and better.

PT: What are you working on right now?

Shaydee: A lot actually. New singles… May be putting out an E.P. I am also working on some projects with Metro Taxi.

PT: You recently sang a jingle for an Airtel advert, what kind of business relationship do you have with the telecom company?

Shaydee: I’m very grateful for the opportunity given to me to sing the song for the current Airtel commercial campaign. It was a big opportunity for me, and quite rewarding. I’m glad to know they were satisfied with my work, and the work of the production team at EME. It’s not an endorsement, but it’s a good start for me to learn how to work with corporate organisations to deliver a message. I’m just starting out so hopefully in the near future you will see me also land endorsement deals the way Banky and Wiz have been able to do, by God’s grace.

PT: Three years from now, where do you see yourself?

Shaydee: All the way on top by God’s grace. I see myself as one of Nigeria’s great exports to the world.

PT: As an upcoming act, what’s your perception about the Nigerian music industry?

Shaydee: Upcoming? The music industry is growing daily and that’s good news for us. The corporate world is beginning to see the prospects and investments and major partnerships are being done. We only hope it gets better.

PT: What would constitute success for you as a musician?

Shaydee: Apart from the “hit singles” and major shows, you need to be able to leave an impact, affect your generation. You need to be able to go out of your country and be known for what you do.

PT: Do you believe in public or social media display of wealth by celebrities? Will you do the same when you make it big?

Shaydee: Nah! If you knew me, would know I barely even speak. Announcing to
the world your worth doesn’t affect your account balance, it will stay same, so why declare? Plus you would only attract unnecessary attention to yourself. The best is to make your wealth, be thankful for it, invest and bless people with it.

PT: Are you in a romantic relationship? And do you have a crush on someone in the industry ?

Shaydee: All these “bae” questions, you wan spoil my market? As for crush, I would say Zainab Balogun of EL (Ebony Life TV)

PT: What kind of person is Banky W as a boss?

Shaydee: Banky is a great guy, a brother and a leader. He’s a man with a great vision running for it. I don’t think Nigeria is ready for him yet. I’m glad to benefit from all his moves.