Born Olawale Ashimi, Brymo, in this interview, discusses how his background influenced the title of his latest album, Son of a carpenter
Why did you name your second album Son of a Carpenter?
I titled it so because my father is a carpenter. I was only trying to tell my story and pass a message that irrespective of our backgrounds, we can always be whatever we want to be. I was one of those kids who used to think my parents did not do enough. When I was younger, I was ashamed of my background but thank God, today, I am proud of my parents. I’m proud of Okokomaiko, the neighbourhood, where I grew up and I am proud of my achievements.
What’s about the new album?
It is a summary of the story of my life- from when I was born till date. A 15-tracker, the online version contains 14 tracks. Each song is a reflection of my talent and energy.
Did you work with any artistes on this album?
Of course, I featured my main man Jesse Jagz and there is a Chocolate City boys’ song on the album. I did not work with any outsider.
Your vocal prowess has made other artistes songs…
After featuring in other people’s songs, which have boosted my resume, I think that was part of the reason I started recording my own songs. Many people used to refer to me as hook master because I was always featuring on this or that person’s song. I no longer want to be identified as a hook master but Brymo. So, I just took up the challenge and started doing my own songs. I am expecting people to love my songs; more than they love the songs I featured in.
Bearing in mind that the music industry is rap personified, are you content being a singer?
I laugh when people say the music industry is all about rap. I have chosen to sing. Also, I have chosen to do some of my lyrics in Yoruba. This is because before you make a song, you must have thought about your target audience. At the end of the day, I believe it is the content of the music that matters. It is a music industry and there should be different genres therein.
What inspires your creativity?
I am inspired by other artistes. I tell my friends that as long as people are making great music, I will always make music. Therefore, whenever I come across a good artiste, whether young or old, I pay attention to their talent.
It has been an interesting year for you winning awards her and there…
I got the Headies last month and another award at the Channel O Awards in South Africa. It was an amazing feeling. I was shocked because I did not expect I was going to come home with a plaque from South Africa. I was in the same category with other good artistes, so competition was stiff. In all, I am very grateful to God.
Are you still in touch with your roots?
I still have my friends at Okokomaiko and I try to visit there as often as I can. As a rule, I am always there on New Year’s Eve for the street jam, which has been an annual event since 2006.
