Since transcending her music journey from the church pews to international stages, Nigerian gospel artist, Esther Efosa Edougha’s musical odyssey has blossomed into a remarkable career with several albums to show for her effort in the ever-competitive world of music.
In this interview, the R&B gospel artist popularly known as Esta, a beacon of inspiration and talent in the vibrant tapestry of Nigerian gospel music, shares her thoughts on the Nigerian music industry. She also gave insight into her focus, journey into music and why the government need to expand its investment in the creative industry among other related issues. Amaka Anagor-Ewuzie brings the excerpt:
What is your assessment of the music and entertainment industry in Nigeria? Are there areas that need government support?
The music industry in Nigeria has grown and is still growing. Nigerian music tops the charts worldwide because of its unique, rich nature and vibes. The government could support it by investing in it, which would make it more efficient.
You ventured into gospel music to address certain known challenges in society. Can you describe your experiences so far?
Music is a universal language, and as such, messages can be passed across efficiently, quickly, and with ease. I am a gospel artist because God blessed me with the gift of songwriting and singing and also because God called me to be a music minister. I have a passion for the gospel of Jesus Christ, and as such, I intend to use my gift to spread the gospel of Christ’s love for man.
As a solo artist, you worked with the Sinach band. How have the experiences you gained there shaped your style of gospel music?
I had already started singing and recording music as a solo artist before I joined the Sinach Live in Concert (SLIC) team. But I must say that being a member of the band has given me exposure and made me experience gospel music differently. I have been greatly blessed by Sinach, and being in the band has inspired me to do better as a solo artist.
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How is your gospel R&B genre structured to attract and sustain patronage? What are some of the unique selling points that set your music apart?
The fusion of pop and R&B in my songs has a sweetness, enabling me to pass my message to all, especially the younger generation. Also, my songs are centred on the love of God and his goodness towards us, which I know everyone can relate to.
What are some of the challenges you have faced in your journey as a gospel artist in Nigeria, and how have you overcome them?
Being a gospel artist or an artist generally has its perks, and my journey hasn’t been any different. As a recording artiste in Nigeria, one has to go through several stages to release a song successfully, and it can be tiring if you are not resilient, from songwriting to getting the right producer to interpreting it to getting the right people to voice the song to get a perfect mix to releasing and then promoting the music.
Also, there’s the issue of funding. As a singer and an artiste, I tell people, especially upcoming singers, to have a job or a business you do because money is needed to have a successful musical career. Also, being trained in the technical aspect is key.
Don’t just record a song; drop it with someone and go. Learn the ropes and know what goes on behind the scenes; this is also very important. An independent artiste in Nigeria is a multitasker and a go-getter.
Kindly share some of the key music projects you have worked on and what we should expect from you in the future.
One of the major highlights of my musical career was the concert I had in 2019, and I have my husband to thank because he practically pushed and encouraged me to do it. That project birthed most of the songs I have released so far: ‘You Lord, Good God,’ ‘All Of My Worship’ and ‘All Sufficient God’. Yes, to be released are ‘I’m The Light Of The World,’ etc.
Worthy of note was also the beautiful programme by Sinach ‘In This Room,’ which was held at Terra Culture in Lagos. I was privileged to have led the worship segment, and I was greatly blessed to be a part of the team ministering for the day.
Nolly also featured me in ‘Hold On’ and by Samjamz. These were two features I enjoyed doing.
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