by Isi Esene

Yes, she studied International Business Management in the university but music has always been her calling. Ebisan is a talented singer/songwriter, she’s got lots of soul, a flavour that shines in all her work.

In 2006 Ebisan co-wrote and recorded a song called ‘What Women Want’, which was very well received by radio stations in the UK. She moved back to Nigeria in 2008 and quickly began making an impact working on the soundtrack of the critically acclaimed movie, Tango With Me starring Genevieve Nnaji and Joseph Benjamin. She co-wrote and recorded the official soundtrack Suru and Dance With Me.

Fast forward to 2011 when Ebisan released her first official single called Love Story and followed with another one, Jowo, months later. The soulful singer is currently working on her debut album and collaborations with both local and international artistes.

She is definitely one to watch out for, don’t say we didn’t tell you!

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Y!: Let us get to know you, who is Ebisan?

Ebisan: I’m an eclectic lady fascinated by love and all the emotions linked to it. I enjoy writing songs that tell stories we can all relate to. Being a very passionate person, I put my heart and soul into my music and everything else that I love. Though music has always been my first love, I have various other interests and love to have a good laugh!

Y!: Have you always wanted to sing?

Ebisan: Yes I have! From a very early age, it was clear that making music and performing was going to be a permanent part of my life. My first stage performance was at the age of eight and I was hooked ever since.

Y!: At what point did you know you were ready to go into music full-time?

Ebisan: When I moved back to Nigeria in 2008. I had just completed a Masters degree programme in England and I knew it was time to start working towards my ultimate goal. So during my NYSC programme, I started doing some research on the Nigerian music industry knowing I would soon be into music full time.

Y!: Were your parents in support of your decision?

Ebisan: Yes they were. They had their concerns, voiced them, gave me some advice and then gave their blessing.

Y!: How long have you been in the music industry?

Ebisan: I’d say it has been 2 years since I started out in the Nigerian music industry my first official single, Love story, was released last year.

Y!: What has the reception been like so far?

Ebisan: So far, thankfully, I have had really positive reviews and feedback. My music is appreciated by many and I find it really encouraging.

Y!: Did you have any difficulties adjusting after you moved back into Nigeria?

Ebisan: It was a bit of a drastic change for me as I had been away for over a decade, but I believe my excitement made every challenge bearable. I was very motivated and eager to start my new life here.

Y!: How does it feel being compared to successful artists like Asa and Jill Scott?

Ebisan: I feel honoured! Those are extremely talented ladies so I can’t complain!

Y!: Tell us about your songs, what inspires you to write?

Ebisan: I am inspired by a lot. From my personal experiences to what goes on in the lives of those around me. Most of all, I’m inspired by love! The good, bad and ugly sides of it.

Y!: ‘Love story’ is a beautiful song, what inspired you to write it?

Ebisan: I was inspired by two things, someone I knew and loved at that time and also by a book I read called The Road Less Travelled. I was fascinated by the concept of true love being a source of personal growth and decided to write about it.

Y!: What do you consider to be your best/favourite work at this moment?

Ebisan: You know, it’s hard to say because I think of all my songs as my babies! I love them all!

Y!: You’ve done the soundtracks of some hit films, how were you able to achieve this?

Ebisan: Well actually, I did the soundtrack for only one, the award winning movie Tango With Me starring Genevieve Nnaji and Joseph Benjamin. I co-wrote and recorded two songs, Suru and Dance With Me for the movie. It was something my manager arranged and once the movie director, heard what I had recorded, he was really pleased.

Y!: Looking back, do you have any regrets?

Ebisan: No, I do not regret anything because even my mistakes made me the strong lady I am today. Life is full of blessings and lessons. I enjoy the blessings and learn from the lessons.

Y!: So what’s next for you?

Ebisan: I have various plans that I’m excited about. I am currently working on my album and I am also working on some songs with other Nigerian artistes. The aim is to keep making good music that Nigerians can be proud of. I am very hopeful about the future.

 

Don’t take her word for it, listen and enjoy some of her songs here –

Love Story:

[audio:http://static.ynaija.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/02_Love_Story.mp3|titles=02_Love_Story]

Jowo:

[audio:http://static.ynaija.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Jowo.mp3|titles=Jowo]

Suru:

[audio:http://static.ynaija.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Suru.mp3|titles=Suru]