By Nightengale Ben-Onyeukwu
In the dynamic world of music, new talents bring fresh
ideas and sounds that captivate listeners. One such artist is Emmanuel Ernest
Alaoma, known by his stage name, Mr. Squad. Hailing from Abia State, Nigeria,
Emmanuel’s journey into music began in secondary school, where friendly
competitions with friends sparked his passion. With a diverse style that
encompasses Afrobeat, rap, highlife, and R&B, he shares heartfelt stories
of love and life in his lyrics. In this interview, we explore Emmanuel’s
creative process, musical influences, and aspirations as he navigates the
challenges of the music industry.
Can you start by telling us about yourself,
your stage name, and how you got into music?
My name is Emmanuel Ernest Alaoma. I was born on June 28, 1997, in Abia State.
My stage name is Mr. Squad. I began making music in secondary school by
competing with my friends in rhyme battles. I consistently outperformed them,
which inspired me to formalize my passion for music.
What’s your educational background? Did you
study music or a related field?
I studied English at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (Alvan Campus). However,
my real education in music has come from extensive experience in the industry.
What genre of music do you create, and what
draws you to that specific style?
I create Afrobeat, rap, highlife, and R&B. These genres resonate with me
because they bring me peace and allow me to express myself effectively. You
could say it’s my niche.
What inspires your songwriting, and what
themes do you often explore in your lyrics?
My songs are inspired by love and life experiences, often revolving around
themes of romance, the beauty of a woman, and social issues. In my five
completed tracks, these themes come to life.
Can you share a bit about your creative
process when it comes to writing and producing music?
Firstly, I find a compelling reason to sing. I write and carefully refine my
lyrics before contacting my producer for a beat that complements them. Then, we
proceed to the recording session.
Who are some of your biggest musical
influences, and how have they shaped your sound?
Phyno, P-Square, Chike, and Flavour have been pivotal influences in my music.
Phyno inspires my rap, Flavour guides my highlife tracks, and P-Square
influences my love songs and other themes.
Are you currently working on any music
projects, such as an album or single? If so, can you tell us about it?
I have many songs in the pipeline, but right now, funding is an issue. I'm
trying to make ends meet so I can release my song titled “SHOW ME NOW,”
inspired by the untimely death of Mohbad.
How do you balance the creative and business
aspects of being a musician, and what advice would you give to emerging
artists?
Music can be lucrative, but to earn money, you must invest. It’s essential for
artists to learn to manage certain aspects of their craft, like creating their
own music artwork and recordings, while also maintaining a strong social media
presence. I strive to make quality music that helps me stand out, especially in
highlife, which I love due to artists like Chike and Flavour.
Where would you like to see yourself in the
next five to ten years? Are there any specific goals or milestones you’re
working towards?
In the next five years, I aspire to be a successful musician. Although I’m
currently outside Nigeria, I am diligently working towards that goal.
Outside of music, what do you enjoy doing in
your free time? Are you in a relationship or focused on your career right now?
In my free time, I enjoy videography and graphic design. These pursuits align
with my creativity and help me enhance my music projects. I’m currently single
and focused on my career.
Conclusion
As Mr. Squad continues to forge his path in the music industry, his dedication
and passion shine through in every song. With a solid foundation and a clear
vision for success, he is poised to make a significant impact on the Nigerian
music scene. His journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring artists, and we
eagerly await more from him as he shares his unique voice with the world.
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