By Adedayo Showemimo
Seyi Sodimu, the Nigerian Born International artiste, has just released a brand new single ‘Pele pele‘ a re-make of Ebenezer Obey‘s ‘ore mi se pele pele.’ Seyi, who is one of the pioneers of the new Nigerian music sound, has been absent from the music scene for a while to pursue other business ventures. His last single ‘Gbedu‘ was released 2 years ago. Seyi’s style of music is called Afro-soul, which is a fusion of African music, soul and high-life. He is featured on this week’s ‘5 Questions with NET.’
You’ve been away from the music industry for a long time, what have you been up to?
I decided to take some time off to focus my energy on building a business empire. So I’ve been investing and establishing several businesses including a fashion line in the US, real estate development in Nigeria, Automotive Sales, and raising my kids. But throughout all this time, I was still involved in entertainment in the background, finding new talent and investing in established artists. And I never stopped recording songs.
How come your new single is a re-make of Ebenezer Obey’s song?
The song by Ebenezer Obey has always been one of my favourite songs, because of the message and the melody. I love highlife and juju music. And Ebenezer Obey is my favourite Nigerian artiste. I love his music; his lyrics and his compositions are evergreen. I am blessed to be related to him and he gave me his blessing and encouragement when I visited him recently in Abeokuta to take his permission. He is like a father to me. I must say we are really close.
After this song, what’s next?
Like I said, I never stopped recording. So I have plans to keep my unique style of music coming, and I’m working with a very good team in Bankulli entertainment and with the likes of SHIZZI (Seyi Akerele) to produce some of my new materials. It is time to take my place in Africa’s Music movement.
Tell us more about your family
I am married to a beautiful Nigerian woman from Ondo state and I am blessed with two wonderful children, a boy and a girl. We are a very close and happy family. My wife is an entrepreneur who runs a group of schools. She is also a co-founder of the Alicemay Hope Foundation, an NGO devoted to educating women and female children in impoverished areas, alongside my daughter. My children are both in school in the United States.
Why are you in Nigeria while they are abroad?
Both my wife and I live in Nigeria, while my kids are abroad due to school. However, they both come to Nigeria every holiday.
