Ekemini Jane is a singer-songwriter from Akwa-Ibom based in Abuja, Nigeria. She came out as one of the top eight finalists for the MBA Talent Project 2022 and is now signed to Tropikana Music Company. The youngster enjoys acting, which she considers an alternative career path if she wasn’t doing music. She also loves solving jigsaw puzzles and watching movies.
Ekemini Jane shares her experiences, expectations, and journey so far with Soot Africa. Enjoy!
When Did You Begin Your Music Career?
She reveals she has been singing for a long time now. I’m sure you are taking the same guess as I am right now. It means she must have been in the children’s choir right?
I was actually in the adult choir by the time I was 8, she responds. Having grown up in a church setting, I can tell you for sure, that is quite an achievement. She had always wanted to be an actress and lawyer alongside music but took a step back from music, especially writing, because she didn’t feel like she was giving anything to the world through her musical expressions.
One thing I’ve observed with music as an artist is that you can’t take a break. I’m an actress, you can play a role and go home and become you but music artists are always in character… She further explains.
Is it that you were scared of expressing too personal emotions in your music?
No, it felt selfish because I believe the ultimate development of any society is a result of what everyone adds to it in any shape or form, so singing about me being sad or heartbroken doesn’t add to anything…I wanted to teach and exhort people, but the music part is just me, myself, and I. However, she recollects some advice a friend gave her way back in her university days. There are certain stories or messages people will only hear if it’s in your voice.
Ekemini Jane goes on to explain how she learned to see herself as a herald for her listeners, knowing full well that her voice might just be the message they need to hear.
Personally, I find it easy to relate to music that projects the personal experiences and growth of the artist. And truly there are certain messages you share as an artist which is what people are yearning to hear and that way you are giving to society.
Can you walk us through Ekemini Jane’s creative process?
I’m yet to discover the source of my creativity (she actually said madness, lol) as of now. Sometimes the melodies come first, and sometimes the words come first. But as a writer, from writing flows the other artistic expressions I have.
Ekemini Jane describes writing as the foundation of her artistry because she considers herself primarily a writer. It drives the core of her creativity
How’s your experience been so far in the MBA talent project? How did you hear about it?
I heard about the MBA Talent Project last year during the 2021 cohort. A friend of mine was one of the artists picked last year. Other talent projects I have seen feel like competitions, but with MBA it’s more like “Show us what you’ve got and we will take it from there”. I decided to apply this year but procrastinated until the last minute. I submitted a demo I was working on because I don’t have any official music out yet.
When I got the message for the top 30, and then the top 7, I was in awe that people love my stuff… Not to sound like I was doubting my work though, because I am a great artist.
She also speaks about how she dared herself to put in the work and apply for the Talent Project
I love her confidence and how she speaks highly of her abilities. Trust me when I say this, her submission for the talent project was one of the best.
So far, is there any memorable experience you’ve had, or one you hope to create soon?
Ekemini Jane loves the creative energy that was burning right from the moment she landed at the camp starting from the production camp.
Every now and then, I like to consider myself an adrenaline junkie. I flew in from Abuja and went straight to the production camp, and we kinda just hit the ground running. I loved it and I love the energy.
One can’t definitely deny that being in a space with fellow creatives is a thing of joy. From the production, songwriting, recording, and vibes.
She enjoys being surrounded by fellow creatives and looks forward to the recording camp.
So what’s next for you and what should we expect from Ekemini?
Honest, Inspiring, and memorable music. I like to think that I make sounds that stick with you.
She intends to make sounds that will bring nostalgia, good memories, and warmth to her listeners.
It was indeed a great conversation with Ekemini Jane! Check out her beautiful vocals on this cover she just dropped. If you want to hear more from Ekemini Jane, not to worry. Fresh new sounds from her will be coming soon. This is the space you want to stay glued to so you don’t miss a thing.
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