INTERVIEWED BY ADEOLA ILELABOYE PHOTOGRAPHY: RAYO KASALI
More than ever, young music artistes can dream of the stardom that always seem like a fairytale. No more are young people forced to be the doctors and engineers they don’t want to be – especially not in a state like Nigeria.
Ayoola Israel OlaOluwa also known as Saro6ix, is one of the promising ones to look out for. The native of Ibadan and student of animal science & production at the Ladoke Akintola University has been growing in light since his debut single. He’s followed up with four mildly received singles, and now is raring to go further with his new record, “My Pace”.
How did you arrive at Saro6ix as your stage name?
You’d be amazed at the source. Well, it so happens that my elder brother once worked in an Agro Allied company in Ibadan known as Saro. He often brought home several stationery souvenir from work. It meant from my exercise books to even my pen was branded “Saro”. Before long, the name just sunk deep. And the six is from the love I have for Yung6ix, so I had to sample that and that was how I came about the name.
How long have you been doing music?
I have been in music for about 8 years, but professionally I’d say 4 years.
What are your songs about?
I have varieties feelings in songs as I grow. It is mostly gratitude, love and life and also street emotions.
What inspires you?
Apart from what I feel from life and happenings, my inspiration ignites when I strike notes on my keyboard. My keyboard is very special to me.
What else do you do asides music?
I’m still studying and also into music production.
Who are your musical influences?
I’d say Burna Boy majorly and Mr. Eazi.
What’s your take on Nigeria music industry; do you think people like you can make head way given the numbers of talented artist?
As the saying goes – the sky is wide enough for the birds to fly. It always seems impossible until it is done. I believe, therefore, I will.
For how long do you intend to do music?
I’d say for as long as I live. Music is not something I can negotiate out of. There will always be depths inside me left to reach as long as I have life.
Which Nigerian artistes would you like to work with right now and why?
Burna Boy or Mr Eazi. I love their vibe of music.
Words for people out there trying to follow this path?
Follow your path; nothing comes easy. If you love it, go for it. You have only one life.
