Timaya, Nigeria’s hottest artist is in Nairobi for a sizzling performance at the Ngong Racecourse Waterfront Grounds tomorrow. Known for his hit songs ‘Ukwu’,’Plantain Boy’, ‘Good or Bad’ and ‘Bum Bum Bum’, he is known for being very well spoken and charismatic. I caught up with him to know what makes his music so infectious and how his life has taken a positive climb in the showbiz industry and this is what he had to say: You are the founder of Dem Mama Soldiers, what made you start the group and why did you move away from doing hiphop music? I do every kind of music and I never moved away from doing hip-hop music. How does it feel to be in Kenya? It feels great. It’s actually my second time here as I had come for the Africa Magic Show sometime back in Mombasa. The people are wonderful and happy, the weather is cooler than in Nigeria. I was shocked to see that people leave the club at 7am in the morning as compared to the Caribbean where people party all the time. What made you to pursue music and how did your family react to it? My family didn’t want me to do music since they said that there was no money especially when I started off as an artist. My manager used to listen and approve of my sound and I love my new
life because I know where I’ve come from. I try to give back by supporting upcoming artists. What made you cut your signature dreadlocks? It’s a look i wanted to pull at that time but I keep changing my hair every time. 'Is the song 'Plantain Boy' based on a true story about your life? Yes it is because the only reason i did was to support my mother as there were rumours spreading about me on the streets of Nigeria hence me changing my name to Timaya.Im also the last child out of 15 children since my dad had two wives. What is the secret to your successful career? Hardwork and I’m happy doing it.There’s no stopping it. How do you manage to balance your personal and music life? Music is my passion, food to my soul. I always wanted to do it and will keep doing it.I just manage to balance both somehow. What does your nickname 'Egberipapa' mean? I am the mouthpiece of the people, the sound boy of Africa. Are you still a brand ambassador for Globacom Mobile Company and which other endorsements do you have to your name? Yes I am including Hennessy and Telkom. Any advice for your Kenyan fans and fellow African artists? Don’t put yourself to bad people, leave from a bad relationship, Find your happiness, appreciate your boyfriend-cherish and love them fully, respect your partner always. Last words or motto you live by? Stay positive, Stay Happy Always.