Mention the name Iyanya in entertainment circles and you are bound to have many heads turning in one’s direction. This is because Iyanya Mbuk has carved a niche for himself in the Nigerian entertainment industry, with most of his songs topping charts all over the continent. His album, also a commercial success, earned him top spot amongst the A-list of artistes in Nigeria. Now in the United States on tour, he spoke to Rotimi Ige on his US and Canadian tour, amongst other issues.
So what has Iyanya been up to in the last two months?
It has been a hectic time for Iyanya in the past two months, travelling around the US and Canada, touring.
Tell us how the US tour experience has been like?
It has the best experience anyone could ever experience in his/her musical career. We (me and my team) have received a lot of love far away from where it all started. I give thanks to God for the love from all the fans here.
Which American cities were most memorable?
I would say all the cities, because I discovered that every city had a different memory, different reception and different swag. I am thankful that they all went well.
How has the reception to your brand of music been generally?
I feel blessed the way things have gone and I am happy and I know I still have a lot to do and learn, we are moving forward. I thank God.
Would you be shooting any videos while there?
Not really, but I will, during my upcoming UK concert.
‘Sexy Mama’ video with Wizkid has been rated as one of the best videos out this year. How was it like working with Wizkid?
Wizkid is one of Nigeria's most talented artiste and will grow bigger than what people can imagine. He has a lot to offer this industry, he is stress free and sticks to time, so the shooting and recording of the song and video was easy. Sexy Mama video was recorded in 1:30 minutes.
Your album was a commercial success. What would you say were the secrets to this?
God, hard work and a good team that's all.
What's next for Iyanya?
Definitely more hit songs and videos are coming. I and my team are also working on international collaborations with many artistes this year.
What other projects are you involved in?
I have a work out centre and an exercise CD coming out soon. A lot of businesses are on our minds but we will unveil them immediately they are all confirmed.
What else do you do in your spare time?
I watch movies, play more music and record more songs. I also attend a few activities with friends.
With all the successes you have enjoyed in the last two years, has it changed you in any way?
I have never seen myself different from what my humble home training taught me while growing up, I am still the Iyanya everyone used to know. Nothing asides my bank account has changed and more shows and endorsements are what has kept rising. And there’s more success to come.
Tell us a little about signing Emma Nyra?
Emma Nyra is a talent yet to be discovered and we are working on her project so that everyone can see. My partner and co-label owner, Ubi-franklin actually discovered her and asked that we sign her so we did. If you listen to most songs on my album, she did all the female voices backing me up. Now, she has three singles out now; Everthing I do featuring me, Ori mi wu, and Kereshere. She also has two videos, so watch out for her this year.
How do you intend to groom her career to be as successful as yours?
I and my partner are in the process of making her a world star, so watch this space for more updates on Emma Nyra.
What caught your eye before you signed her?
We found out that she had a very welcoming attitude, coupled with her good voice and image and we felt we could work on her to become better to upgrade what she already had.
Any other artiste you are seeking to sign presently?
Yes, there’s this guy we have our eyes on. His name is Bassey and he will be unveiled soon. He is another talent. Our fans should please watch out for him.
Tell us about your typical day?
All my days are hectic, because its basicly work, work, and more work. We have to keep the hustle going good.
What has music given you?
Fame, money, friends, haters, experience and the good things in life. We thank God.
How have you grown since when you won MTN Project fame till date?
Wow, a lot has happened in the last 5 years and I am eternally grateful.
At what point did you release you needed to change your genre of music?
When I go for event and I am not given the kind of reception I think I deserve, so I decided to try another genre. It worked and now we are here.
What advice would you give to artistes who want to be like you?
Believe in your abilities and work hard..
How do you keep so fit?
I work out daily and eat at the right time and don't miss out on my routine
When is Iyanya getting married?
Soon. For now, we are searching.
How do you relax?
I play music.
Would you say you are a fashionable person?
I play safe
What fashion accessories can't you do without?
My wrist watch.
Favourite perfume?
Amouage
Favourite hangout/relaxation spot?
My studio.
Last words?
I thank God for my life and my team, and thanks to my numerous fans for the strength they give me through messages, calls and acceptance anywhere I go.
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