Vibes and cruise of Imanse

In October 2022, Afrobeats sensation, Omowunmi Adefosudo dropped Never in my life, a single that went viral and took over the airways. Although not a newbie in the entertainment scene, Imanse, as she is popularly called, subsequently released her body of work titled, Vibes and Cruise, which speaks about the giving good vibes despite the hardship in the country. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Imanse attended Queens College, Lagos, before moving to the United States where she spent another 10 years and bagged a degree from the Howard University in Washington D.C. She interned at Walls street prestigious firm, Morgan Stanley and also went on to take on a full time finance and tax position with a Manufacturing electronic firm called Tyco Electronics. After schooling and working for a couple of years in the states, Imanse moved back to Lagos to pursue her first love, music, which has been a part of her since she turned 10. With a fusion of Afrobeats, Afropop and Soul, her quest to create a unique sound makes her a treat musically. Her first single, Gbona, was released in December 2014, produced by Ikon. This was followed by the release of Today, Ife ti, Gbona Remix featuring Falz and Real Love featuring Jumar. She released her E.P project Hard earned feelings in September 2017, which comprised of sounds from some of the best creatives in the land, from Cobhams Asuquo to Di Coublon. Other singles include Olufemi, Sarewale, Anosike, Hehe and Original Somebody. In this interview with IJEOMA THOMAS-ODIA, she speaks about her maiden album, which started out as an EP.

Your hit single, Never in my life, was well received, what informed your decision to make that song?
Well, many different unique experiences informed it. As you journey through life, you realise that you could have handled certain things better. You could have been smarter in certain instances and maybe someone outsmarted you here and there. So, you become wiser and you live different, you act in your new understanding.

What is the inspiration behind your new album, Vibe and Cruise?
Post-pandemic life got tougher, economies tumbled, people lost jobs, loved ones… and you realise that life is short. So, relax, love, forgive and have some fun. Catch cruise.

How long did it take to come up with the album?
About a year and a half; I had another separate EP ready, but decided that it wasn’t quite ready. So, we decided to start again from scratch and we made Vibes And Cruise. Shout out to every member of my team.

What is the take home from your 10-track album and would you say Vibes and Cruise relates to how people should approach life is generally?
Yes, take is easy. Life can be hard and rough, so have a good time along the way.

What is your take on the happenings in the country today, how can your music bring succour to listeners?
I have many lessons in my music. In my opinion, the country is falling apart to fall in place. The average Nigerian is now more aware of what he wants from the government so that’s a great place to be. Let’s see how it goes.
As for how the music can bring succour to listeners, it takes them on a journey. No let anybody use your head o.

How would you describe your genre of music and why did you settle for it?
I’m Afropop/soul; let’s say Afrobeats star. I wanted to take genres that I can tell stories with; pass a message or two and emote true feelings. I’m still defining my sound; it’s a journey with my audience.

You love live music, how are you driving this passion with your Night of Imansepation?
I love live band. I live for a good musical and the show was created to highlight talented female stars. We are on a break now, but will resume once we have the right sponsors on board.

Tell us about your growing up and how it influenced your passion for music?
My whole family loves music. My mum worked in the radio house and my dad played King Sunny Ade, Obesere, Mariah Carey, Michael Bolton, Whitney… all the greats at home always.

You have been in the music scene for almost a decade, how would you describe your growth?
I’ll say it’s slow, sure and steady.

Between writing songs and singing, which do you consider your strength?
Even though I love writing, I’ll say both. It’s a tie.

What influences your kind of music?
Life, everything that happens to me or those around me; I draw from it!

What was it like working with Falz and Cobhams in some of your songs and why did you think they were the right fit at the time?
They are extremely talented individuals, so it’s a no brainer

What do you consider your struggles in the industry and how are you surmounting them?
Many, many struggles, but we pass the struggles. It’s just all about being tough. This is not a joke! You have to have a good head on your shoulder, have a solid vision and power through as best you can.

Are there any tours? What are you up to right now?
I’ll love to go on tour. Looking forward to some this year

As a female artiste, how easy has it been for you navigating the industry?
Not so easy, but it’s getting better. We move!

How would you describe your personality?

Fun, vibrant, loves to chill and jaiye, hardworking, ethical, big-hearted, bossy!