Seun Akeju, who goes by the stage name, Sepzy Joe, is a graduate of economics from Ekiti State University. He is a rap and hip hop artist. Senior Reporter, Anthonia Soyingbe, came across him at a recording studio where he opened up on his life as an artist.
Can you tell us how you got into music?
Akeju
I started singing as a child and have always had this strong passion for music. Just like many notable artists, I was a chorister but I started music professionally, during my undergraduate days.
One would have expected you to be a gospel singer since you said you were once a chorister in church?
God is still the center of my life and everything about me can be attributed to His benevolence. I don’t know why I am not into mainstream gospel but I often make special tracks in appreciation of God. My not being a gospel singer doesn’t mean I am not conscious of God. Who knows one day, I might become a gospel artist but honestly, I’m satisfied with what I’m doing now and I think God is happy with me.
Do you see yourself competing favorably with other notable artists in the industry?
For me, it isn’t about competition. There is a place for every talented artist in the industry. I will give my fans what they want. I am not being boastful or arrogant, I know I’m talented and this will definitely pave way for me in all that I do. I get inspirations from happenings around me and at other times, through dreams.
It seems you have abandoned the course you studied for music.
Economics is all about our daily living. I am still in business and will always be in business irrespective of my attainment as an artist. I am not in music because of fame or money but because I have something to offer.
As an up and coming artist, what are some of the challenges you have encountered so far in your career?
I can’t deceive you that things are going on smoothly. With humility and absolute reliance on God’s grace, I know we will overcome. There are some individuals in the industry who are just out to milk young talents dry and frustrate their efforts. I am not discouraged by that because I am very optimistic that my talent and God’s grace will speak for me. Somebody who claimed to be influential in the industry has once collected money from me on the charade that he will help promote my song but nothing came out of that. I know it is a matter of time. My candid advice to struggling musicians like me is that they should not be discouraged by these individuals rather; they should brace up and continue to put in their best. One day, help will come our way.
Who are some of the artistes you look up to in Nigeria?
I don’t have role models in Nigerian but I love 2face Idibia for his talents and humility. I also like raps artistes
How did you come about your stage name?
I was very daring during my undergraduate days. I was nicknamed, Sepke because of my intake of that local gin. Though I’m a changed person now but some of my naughty friends still call me that name. I modernized my nickname and that gave birth to Sepzy Joe.
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