Exclusive! Gabriel Afolayan Talks Music, Acting, Album, Inspiration And More
Alan Harbiodinho had an exclusive interview with actor, singer-songwriter, Gabriel Afolayan where talked about his music plans, how he shuffles acting with music, his inspiration and more.
Gabriel who is part of the renowned Afolayan entertainment family that comprises Ade Love, Moji Afolayan, Kunle Afolayan and Aremu Afolayan, studied Theatre Arts at University of Ibadan.
As an actor who rose to fame playing the role “Akin” in Super Story series titled ‘Nnenna’, won the Best Supporting Actor award for playing “Tavier Jambari” in Hoodrush (2012). As a musician, he is known mostly for “Awelewa” and “Kokoro Ife“.
Head below to read the exciting conversation with the multi-talented act:
Can we meet you sir?
The name is Gabriel Afolayan. An Actor-Singer under Studio 6 Multimedia Ltd. A graduate of Theatre Arts, University of Ibadan from Kwara State.
How did your music Journey started?
I love music. It’s always being with me but started professionally in 1997 as a backup singer at Phynix studio in Ibadan.
How is growing up in Ibadan like?
It was cool. Moral update per excellence.
Who is your mentor locally or internationally and why?
I love soul music. My music culture is kinda wide. For foreign RnB Soul Music; Anthony Hamilton, Tyrese Gibson, Sisqo, Brandy e.t.c. Back Home I listen to all.
At first, you released your first single ‘Kokoro Ife’ which received massive airplays on both TV and Radio stations. Can you tell us about your upcoming projects/plans?
I have like five (5) songs out there already. Kokoro Ife, Chapterz, Da yan mo (Recognition), Club 09 and Awelewa.
Which of your songs do you think brought you to music limelight?
Kokoro Ife (Love Bug)
What else are you into aside music?
I am an Actor, a Producer/Director; my movies are coming out soon.
How do you mix/cope with acting and singing at the same time?
I am under a management “Cream Entertainment” they see to that. But so far, it has been well.
But you said earlier you were under ‘Studio 6’?
Studio 6 is the label…..Cream Entertainment is the management.
How will you describe your style of music?
It’s a thorough Afro n B (Alternative RnB)
You describe your style of music earlier as “Afro n B’ did you missed the R or that’s how it is?
It’s called African RnB (a mix of mother tongue with the mainstream RnB) Afro oriented RnB. So we call it Afro n B for short.
How has Ibadan being able to influence your brand music?
It brought simplicity to my style.
What do you think the government can do to help the music Industry?
To make sure that all our (Entertainment) activities pass through their table. Especially to protect our interest by keeping us safe away from PIRACY. This in return, is an avenue where the country can fully project in term PR.
Who is/are you willing to work with?
I will like to work with Chris Brown Internationally then, 2baba (Tuface), Banky W, Bez and Praiz, Asa & Gt Da Guitarman.
When should we be expecting your Album?
Soon!
What has been the unexpected hurdle?
Coping with it.
What has been the unexpected breakthrough?
Getting to see all my dreams unfolding before my very eyes.
Are you married?
Nope.
How do you cope with your female fans?
We make more friends.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
As big as the word ‘BIG’ itself.
Who is/are the people you will never forget that as made a positive impact in your music career?
My mother, Princess (Comedian), Foster Zeeno, ID Cabasa, Tosin Kujore, Yaw, Lolo 1, Kayefi (Alapomeji), M-base, Kayode Krakou, James Abinibi, Michella GossipGirliee, Kayode Peters, Aremu Afolayan, Seyi Adegoke, just to mention few.
What do you have to say to your fans?
They love me…..I love that fact and I’m enjoying every bit of it. God bless them for me. I LOVE THEM. Thanks for the support.
Your thoughts?
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