Doing gospel music in a world that has been taken over by secular music becomes more difficult especially when the many artistes in the genre have to battle for the limited time most radio stations allocate to gospel music.
Owu Amakohia Ikeduru LGA born gospel artiste, Okechukwu Lawrence Samuel in this exclusive interview with ROSIE YOUNG of www.otowngist.com reveals his journey so far in the industry; his challenges, relationship and the motivation behind every move he has made as a gospel singer.
Excerpts
The names
My biological names are Okechukwu Lawrence Samuel and my musical name is Olawrence.
How come about O’Lawrence?
The ‘O’ is from Okechukwu and Lawrence is my father’s name though some people call me ‘Make Sense G’ because of my debut album which was titled “God make sense”
How did you start music?
It started when I was little. My elderly brother had a music group and I always watch them sing. At a point i started imitating them to a point that they asked me to join their group. My mum sings too, so it started at home then I started singing for churches and then in events.
Your motivation to record in studio
I was motivated to record a song after I participated in Peak Talent Hunt Audition at Presidential Hotel Enugu. I didn’t have as much as others who auditioned on their instrumentals. When I got back to Owerri, I was challenged to package myself better because that eye opener experience as well as the fact that I wanted something for myself in the music industry.
Winning Peak Talent Hunt with a gospel track
Yes, my instincts told me I could win since it was an open audition and wasn’t restricted to any genre.
What made you go into gospel music?
My background is my basic factor. I come from a Christian home. I could have done secular music because i have plenty friends in that area but I needed to be on the majority. If secular artistes can be singing ‘thank you Baba’ in their songs, i think the best thing is for me to go into full time gospel music and sing to God alone.
Education
By the grace of God, I’m a graduate though still working towards other degrees. I studied Computer Science at Federal Polytechnic Nekede and Electrical Engineer at Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO)
Back in school, outside music, did you have other hobbies?
Yes. I loved politics. At my 400 level, I became a honourable member and represented my department in the students’ parliament. So if it wasn’t music, it will be politics.
Furthering in politics
Yes I see that happening. Like I said it’s something I love so much ad not that i want to do for anything, but it is in me.
Gospel music and politics which is a dirty game
As a gospel artiste, my political career will be more interesting. Being someone who believes in God, people will believe in me.
Do you practice what you preach in your music?
Yes I do and i will keep doing that with the help of God.
How many albums do you have?
One for now and I’m currently working on the second one. And out of it I have release a single titled receive it which is only and also gaining radio airplay around the country.
How long will it take for the second one to be out?
I’m not in a hurry to finish it but definitely in this 2014. In this industry you have to give people something to believe in. So I’m working hard and slow to come with that.
Any challenges so far?
Yeah. Financial challenges because in this industry, you need to have raw cash to promote yourself. Time is another factor that has held me back in music. I am mostly busy with other things so the push to put more time in music is not always there. But I’m working on making it better.
Your relationship with God
I’m in a tight relationship with God
Greatest moment?
My greatest moment was performing in front of about 10.000 people during an Assemblies of God church program at Owerri stadium in 2007
Relationship with fans and family
Great! My family is a great support to me. Sometimes when I’m angry, they sing my song to me to get happy. My friends have also been there for me.
Relationship status
Am hopefully engaged
Hopefully engaged?
That remains confidential till we get to the altar.
