Tell us about your background?
WELL, my names are Charles Obinna Iheme. I was born in Port Harcourt. Then we moved to Lagos. My dad is from Mbaitolu Local Government Area in Imo State while my mum is from Ekwere, Emoha Local Government Area, Rivers State. I have four siblings, three older and a younger brother.
What was growing up like?
I did most of my growing up in school because I attended boarding schools. It was fun though I had to learn from senior students and friends instead of family. But it was tough. I am not sure I want my children doing the same.
How did you come into music?
Music has always been a part of my life right from when I was younger I was in the choir and I enjoyed singing for my peers but I came into music professionally when I met my friend who is also a rapper Yung6ix. Yung6ix encouraged and motivated me to get into music professionally, his success has inspired me. We did a collabo and I have continued from there.
Any particular inspirations?
Wande Coal, I think his music is culturally innovated to impact on the global scene. South Shout to Don Jazzy for that.
What kind of music do you do?
Ah! I do all kinds of music depending on my mood. But from what I have recorded so far, it's contemporary naija pop. So basically, my genre is contemporary naija pop, but I can also play with other genres, I am that versatile.
Why naija pop?
That is just what I have found myself doing and also in Nigeria today, as our Alaba boys will say: na wetin dey move market.
Tell us about your first stage performance?
Wow! (Covers face) I was so shy, nervous.. I actually forgot my lyrics, I couldn't even lip sync but I am getting better at my stage craft.
How have you grown from your first performance till date?
I have grown tremendously, I have learned how to work the crowd and get them involved so my performance is as interactive as ever, giving them a good show.
Your biggest show thus far?
At an award night at the University of Port Harcourt where I performed along side yung6ix
What can you give up music for?
Nothing
Not even for love?
Love will understand
Tell us about your first song?
My first recording was on a featured song titled “THANK YOU” by an upcoming musician called Pero E. I went to a studio in my area and he was recording, so when I was listening to the beat, I got an idea for a chorus then I sang it to him and he said he wanted me on the song ..(Smiles with pride)
What song gave you your big break?
Like I said earlier it was the collabo I did with yung6ix titled No time.
Since then, how has the reception to the brand you've become?
(Eyes rolling) Hmm, it has been encouraging. At least I am recognised in some places I go. It's gradual though, We are still moving, my manager, and I, Gbemi Ereku. We are working hard at it.
What has music given you?
Joy. I am yet to earn much from music but the joy of thrilling people is fulfilling.
What would you have been if not music?
Probably a computer engineer
Your greatest performance?
Amazingly, a club performance in V.I, Lagos.
Tell us something most people don't know about you.
The fact that I can be a comedian at times if you get to know me well.
Whats the worst rumour you have heard about yourself?
When I heard the rumour that I was into cyber crime (yahoo).
What's your normal day like?
Studio all the way
What is good music to you?
Music people can relate to.
Can you say that the transformed Naija entertainment scene is where it should be?
Not Yet, We are getting there though.
What are your challenges?
The lack of government backing and infrastructure for effective distribution of our music.
To you, is music a passion or a business?
I'll say both. No doubt when it all started it was for the love I had for it but everybody has bills to pay.
Now the music industry has come a long way in Nigeria, is anything still missing?
We are not yet organised.
Where do you see your craft in the next five years?
I see myself working with bigger names, I see myself giving the world good music and I see myself bringing home a grammy
Who/What inspires your music videos?
The context of the song inspires the story-line of my videos.
They say women in Nigerian entertainment are yet to break out. What is the reason for this?
I think the hassles of the industry gets to them, no be beans to put out a Compilation ooo.
Tell us about your fashion sense?
I love to dress casual but expensive
Your most expensive fashion item?
A gold chain I bought for $1,700.
Favourite fashion item? How many do you own?
A BIllionaire boys club (BBC) jacket. I have just two.
What puts you off?
Liars, thieves and fake people
What turns you on?
Naughty stuffs and of course good music
Your favourite Naija artistes?
It's Wande coal
Your most memorable collabo?
My song NO TIME feat yung6ix
Favourite foreign artiste?
Akon because he has the interests of Africa at heart and he's a great singer.
What projects are you into right now?
Working on my new singles because I'm starting my nationwide tour soon.
Your plans for your future?
Develop a music label into Africa's biggest.
Any collaborations in the future?
Yes! I am working on some at the moment, with artistes like Mr Ruky, TK, Phenom and W4.
Album this 2012?
That I can't say but you should keep your fingers crossed
Who r your icons or role models?
That black guy from Mushin, Wande coal
Your word for upcoming performers?
No matter the challenges and trials, stay focused, determined and you'll get there soon. NEVER THINK OF LETTING GO (NTOLG)
How do you handle admirers?
I believe there is time for everything but right now I rather concentrate on building my name.


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