ATELA BEGINS
Francis Atela began singing at the early age of 14 in his church choir where he developed his skills in music, songwriting and entertainment. The Benue State-born singer’s background as a chorister from that young age at his local Catholic Church Parish has had a great influence on his sound and dedication.
With the backing of Squeeze Records, he has previously released songs such as Ojuju Calabar, Kekere and My Life. The singer has collaborated with top acts in the Nigerian music industry including Fome Peters, DJ Coublon, T-spize and Clarence Peters who directed Jankara; a feel-good music video depicting a celebration of love, laughter and life.
His recent single titled “Jankara” coupled with captivating visuals to set the Nigerian music scene agog is going viral on all platforms. He has released songs such as “Ojuju Calabar”, “Kekere” and “My Life”. The singer has collaborated with top acts in the Nigerian music industry including Fome Peters, DJ Coublon, T-spize and Clarence Peters who directed Jankara; a feel-good music video depicting a celebration of love, laughter and life.
He displays his trademark vocal prowess on this song, but this time surprising his fans by diversifying into a completely different sound. This Afro-pop song, produced by Fome Peters has paved the way for other artistes to tap into this genre. Atela said, “I will continue to bring fresh, quality and relatable sounds to the waiting ears of the people of the world who are tired of hearing the same old sounds.
He spoke with SIMPLE about his music journey in this brief expose.
What does music mean to you?
Music is an escape for me, a place where I find rest, a place where I can express myself. Most of my songs are belt on my life experiences, things I have been to or those around me have been to.
How and when did you discover Music?
I started music in the Catholic Church choir; I used to sing the tenor or auto depending on how it is. There’s this thing called respond-sorale sound, a segment during the mass services where you see a part of the sound and you respond in the Catholic Church, so for me that’s how music started for me.
How would you define your kind of music?
Sweet love music, I sing my song base on how I feel.
What do you feel is the best song you’ve ever released and why?
You’ve not heard it yet. No father chooses any of his son over the other. Each of song is like a milestone for the other.
So far, how has been the reception of your music?
Awesome, the love basically for my song has grown beyond my expectations.
What inspires you?
Life and my family(mom).
Who are your biggest influences in the Music Industry?
R Kelly, Joe, 2Baba, Banky W and Dare Art Alade.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
There’s no rush, in five years time I see myself doing what I love, making more music that will make people fall in love and heal.
What do you want your fans to remember you for?
I want to remember for someone that made good music that touch so many lives.
If you had one message to give to up and coming artistes, what would it be?
My message to myself or to whoever is reading this is self believe, you have to believe in yourself and ensure you are Happy.
