My Success Today Didn’t Come Easy – KCee

 Kingsley Okonkwo popularly known as Kcee is arguably the hottest music act in Nigeria at the moment. His hit song, Limpopo took him from the backseat and redefines his music career. The music star and MTN ambassador spent some time Entertainment Rave Newspapers to discuss his life and career.

Read the interview below..........

What have been the gains of Limpopo?

The gains of Limpopo have been enormous and we didn’t expect it to blow up so fast. It has proved itself as a good song. I’ve been able to perform for top dignitaries in and outside the country. I have also performed in major concerts around the world. The song has travelled far and wide. Every time I go on stage, it’s like Nigeria’s national anthem. I must confess that the love is massive and I give praise to God.

You’re definitely one of the most underrated acts before now, how is the new found success making you feel?

My success today didn’t come easy. I read a lot of stories online that I should go back to Onithsa and start selling clothes and forget about music. I was not moved but tried to remain focus. It was a difficult moment in my life but I knew I have what it takes. The most important thing is that you need to find your feet and believe in yourself. I started working to stay on top of my game and I refused to sleep. I have been working towards this achievement everybody is celebrating now for a long time. Limpopo was the number eight song and the sixth video I did after breaking up with my partner. At a point, I ran out of funds. So my success story is about dedication, passion and commitment. Yes, I will say I am surprised, but if I look at it again from another perspective, I had always known that I would hit it big someday. To be sincere, Limpopo is a divine song from God. I think God just felt it is my time to shine.

How long did it take to make the song in the studio?

Limpopo is a lovable music and many won’t believe it took me less than 40minutes to record. I was in the studio with some friends and it was not one of those songs that you already have the idea of what you want to do about it in terms of arrangement and other stuffs. Right there, there was something unusual about the song and we started celebrating. We travelled to South Africa immediately to shoot the video. Before we knew it, it became an anthem. But like I already said, it’s a divine song.

You have said several times that Limpopo means fun but who coined the word?

It is divine (laughs) and I can’t explain it. I was recording in the studio when that word dropped into my heart and it sounded very nice. Eventually, it became the hook of the song.

What kind of perception do you want people to have about you?

I want to be seen as a very unique person and somebody that loves his roots. I love my culture, I love Africa and I don’t want to be like every other person. I will be dropping more songs which will constantly be in line with my identity. Already there is Okoso which is the song I released after Limpopo.

What is your strategy to remain on the top?

You have to be consistent, be familiar with the business and follow it up. Aside this, you have to always keep renewing your face in the business and be trendy and avoid scandals that can destroy your career

How juicy is your ambassadorial deal with MTN?

The deal is good and of course it came with some restrictions. The deal was worth taking, if it was not, I won’t take it. But if you consider the benefits of the deal, I am comfortable with it. I think MTN is just trying to support the industry and I appreciate the company for what is doing. Limpopo song was just the bridge that connected me with some of the deals and top places I have visited since I dropped it. I’ve heard President Jonathan, his wife-Patience and top government functionaries too singing Limpopo.

How was life like before you got to this level?

It has not been easy especially when you have to work and work until you get the right sound. Aside, you need the energy to promote your songs. It is really not easy but it could be stressful and fun sometimes. The bottom line is to keep pushing as far as you are alive. Don’t try to give up.

What happened to your furniture business that you intended to abandon music for?

Around 2009 and 2010, I wanted to leave music and I went into furniture business. I began importing furniture into the country, I got a showroom in Lagos and I was enjoying it but there was no satisfaction like that of music. I later took a decision that I must make my own impact in the music industry immediately I and partner broke up. I had to put aside every business and I said to myself, If I try it this time and it does not work, I will leave. I know it got to a point that I wanted to leave the industry, but I am happy that my determination not to give up has paid off.

What are you asking God at the moment?

I’m praying for long life, prosperity and more hit songs. I just pray that God gives me more inspiration that will take me to a higher level because I’m just starting. I will continue to make good music.

Are you that religious or you are faking it?

My life style has nothing to do with my religious life. I know where I am coming from. The truth is that you need to recognize God and appreciate Him for what He has done for you. Today, when I am performing and I see the way people appreciate my songs and performance, I don’t need anybody to tell me that this is God working.

What explains your love for exotic automobiles?

I don’t call it cars, but big toys. The latest acquisitions, a BMW BMX6 and a Range Rover are needed. It is normal because those that know me would tell you I appreciate good things of life. I am not complaining about how I live my life. If I buy anything today, I do it because I could afford it.

What is that fashion item you cannot leave home without?

That should me my studs (earrings). I don’t know why but it has been like that. The strange part of it is that I put it on when I wake up in the morning before I come out to attend to any visitor. It’s quite expensive and I have lots of them.

How much do you believe in love?

I believe so much in love and having a partner is important. You need to share your life with someone and share ideas together and grow together. Most times, I like to keep my personal life away from business because they are two different things. Everybody needs some level of privacy.

What is your most cherished memorable experience so ever?

That should be the day I won Star Quest. It was memorable for me because it actually gave me the opportunity to express myself. Anytime, I remember that day, I always feel happy because I never believed KC Presh could win Star Quest. That day, I cried and people did not know why I was crying. The reason was that God had broken the chains of poverty in my life and taken me to a greater height. I knew I was going to make use of that opportunity. After we got their first N1million cheque from the reality TV show, I bought a Mercedez Benz 190 and I was having fun with it.

How far have you gone with first solo album?

I will be dropping my album very soon and when you hear it, you will appreciate my talents more. My kind of music is totally different from what I used to do; no vulgar words, strictly for mature minds.

Did you regret anything about your break up with your former partner?

For me, I took a lot of boldness when we separated. I have no regret because it was a mutual decision taken by the group to show their fans their individual genre of music. That was the story behind our break up and not because we had any irreconcilable differences.