Yemi Alade is a dynamic Nigerian singer and songwriter. Her music fuses Afropop, highlife, dancehall, pop, and R&B, influencing numerous countries across Africa and beyond. Her works showcase her linguistic versatility as she is known to sing in English, Igbo, Pidgin, Yoruba, French, and a few other languages making her a true pan-African icon. She told Tosin Clegg about her new album, her collaborations, milestones and more
You’ve achieved so much in your career. What are some of the milestones that stand out to you the most?
I would say being able to take care of my family after I lost my dad is the biggest milestone in my career. It’s my biggest achievement and also the lives my music has brought joy to is my second biggest achievement. These two things are invaluable and priceless.
Can you share the inspiration behind your soon to be released album, Rebel Queen?
African pop music was a blend of powerful messages that helped us through different situations in life while growing up. This album reflects the state of what my playlist consists of right now that’s for example the new and old pop music that cuts across generations and boundaries. There is a lot of sounds and discussions about what African music such as AFROBEATS or Afropop should sound like and sounds like. So for me, I wanted to strip everything down and go back to the core and essence of african feel good music which is a reflection of our different sounds across the continent including genres such as reggae, rhythm and blues as well as rock and roll due to their heavy influence on Africans globally. I am a true rebel in words and in action. So many albums tend to have monotony in genre and style and it bores me easily most times. But this album has something new, old and borrowed. I want to emphasise to you that every song is unique and a capsule of my thoughts and melodies with a truck load of nostalgia.
Tell us about the tracks list?
The album explores themes of femininity, style, dance, motivation, liberation, and consciousness. Each track delves into these concepts, celebrating the strength and beauty of femininity, the expression of individuality through style, the joy of dance, the power of motivation, the journey towards liberation, and the awakening of consciousness. It’s a 16 track album that takes you through sounds of Africa on different tempos and rhythms with features from a few of your favorite artistes from different parts of the world.
What was the idea behind your new song, ‘Tomorrow’ off your album?
‘Tomorrow’ is a special song to me. It is a dance and conscious oriented song that reminds us of endless possibilities and a second chance that ‘tomorrow’ gives every one of us. It was borne from bare melodies that manifested into words that everyone can relate to. I am glad that the song gained massive acceptance since its release and the whole world is dancing to it.
You’ve collaborated with many artists across different genres. Which collaboration was the most memorable for you?
I only collaborate with musicians that I’m a fan of. It always feels like a literal “dream come true” for me. Every single collaboration I have had is memorable especially my collaborations with female artists from around the world. My songs also are a reflection of who I am and my personal life experience influences my songs 90 per cent of the time. I honestly have just continued to make music with the constant element being Yemi Alade.
You’ve performed all over the world. What’s been your favorite place to perform and how do you prepare for a big performance?
Performing in Puerto Rico was outstanding! The energy was right! The vibe was high! Preparing for any performance takes weeks of musical rehearsals, then dance rehearsals before we do the final rehearsals that combines both dance and music. And what makes it so impactful is that we rehearse as if we are already on stage. Ahead of all of these when it comes to putting together songs I always believe there will always be time for the things that are most important and writing music is something I always do with ease on the road as I make voice notes very frequently and later create the production.
How have you managed to reinvent yourself and your music over time?
The reality of the matter is that the music industry has always been tough. Even before I showed any interest in music, it was tough and will continue to be tough. But you know what they say about tough situations, only the strongest will survive. I am myself. I am true, African and incredibly authentic. There is no one like me. I’m unique! A rare gem! Trail blazer and an African rebel making her way in this diverse word of monotony.
How do you envision your career evolving over the next five years and what has made you remain relevant so far?
I will try to explain it in words. I love music. It is the one thing that I’m incredibly gifted at. I am deeply rooted and connected to music. For me, it’s therapy, life and it has chosen me as a messenger. That’s how I can explain it. For the next five years, I would say I’m always happy to see what God has in store for me as he is the center and head of my world. For me every day is a beautiful surprise and I let it come at its pace.
