“I sing to myself and it makes me happy” – Vector about music and staying true to oneself

In this episode of #WithChude, Olanrewaju Ogunmefunthe rapper and singer-songwriter better known by his stage name Vectorsits down Chude Jideonwo for a conversation about his music, youth, activism and family life.

Vector tells how he paid a high price for staying true to himself in Nigeria’s often complex environment – ​​and reveals he has been shadowed for his outspoken views. But despite the challenges, he remains undaunted. “I’m not afraid of anyone holding a microphone,” he tells Chude, emphasizing his commitment to his art and his truth.

He also delves into personal aspects of his life, discussing how he teaches his daughters to box for self-defense, reflecting on his upbringing in central Lagos Island and how he navigates emotional detachment without losing his humanity. He credits his wife and daughters for teaching him tenderness and explains why he didn’t shed a tear when his father died.

The conversation also touches on his past, including any lingering regrets about his famous feud with MIthe reasoning behind that confrontation, and the media misunderstandings about his comments about it Burna Boy and Nigeria. He even tells the moment when Portable misinterpreted one of Vector’s raps about “Zazu” (from The Lion King), thinking it was a diss aimed at him.

Watch excerpts from the conversation below:

Chude: Are you satisfied with how your career has gone?

Vector: The ultimate happiness I feel is when I make music, not the result of the music.

So I sing to myself and it makes me happy. I know that since man is flawed, man’s acceptance of my art will come from an original, flawed perspective. So sticking to what people say – people who are flawed – causes myself unnecessary headaches, especially when things don’t go my way.

But guess what I have control over? The melodies I create. I share that with many of my friends who feel like they have failed. I’m like, ‘You haven’t failed at everything in life.’

In the face of the negative energy that pulls you into depression, the image of yourself is enough to make you happy. In the darkest of times, the smallest reminder that makes you feel good about yourself is enough.

For me it’s lyrics, melody, musical arrangements and soul in music. So I couldn’t trust that people would make me happy when God himself has given me the gifts that make me happy.

Watch the video below: