Popular Nigerian rapper, Reminisce, has opened up about the challenges of fame and the harsh realities of the music industry. In a candid interview, the artist reflected on his journey to stardom, emphasizing how fame can distort one’s perception of reality and relationships. His insights shed light on the darker side of fame and offer valuable lessons for both aspiring musicians and fans.
Reminisce, whose real name is Remilekun Safaru, is no stranger to the limelight. The rapper, also known as “Alaga Ibile,” rose to prominence in the Nigerian music scene with his unique blend of rap and indigenous Yoruba sounds. However, despite his success, he warns that fame is not all glamour.
“Fame is a drug that gets one high and clouds judgment,” Reminisce said. He explained that the euphoria that comes with fame often leads people to make poor decisions and misjudge those around them. According to him, the intoxicating effect of fame can blind an artist to the true intentions of those who claim to be friends.
“Many people don’t like me because I stand by my decisions,” he continued. Reminisce shared that he learned early in his career that he would ultimately be responsible for the consequences of his actions, whether good or bad.
“Nobody Is Your Friend in the Music Industry”
One of the key lessons Reminisce learned in his rise to fame is that genuine friendship is rare in the music industry. “That’s probably why many people don’t like me,” he said, reflecting on the misunderstandings and disagreements he has faced throughout his career. He explained that many of the issues he has had with others in the industry stem from his ability to make tough decisions and stand by them, even when those decisions are unpopular.
“I have learned that at the end of the day, na me go suffer the consequences,” he said, expressing the importance of taking responsibility for one’s choices.
Reminisce’s outlook on friendships in the industry is shaped by his experiences. He emphasized that many people are quick to turn against someone when they don’t benefit financially or otherwise. “You know that when it comes to humans, they turn you into an enemy if they aren’t favoured, especially monetarily,” he said.
His words resonate with the experiences of many celebrities who often find themselves surrounded by people who claim to support them but disappear when the fame or money dwindles.
A Long Road to Fame
Unlike some artists who rise to stardom overnight, Reminisce’s journey was gradual. He had a child before his music career truly took off, which gave him a unique perspective on fame and relationships. “It took a while before I became famous, and I even had a child beforehand,” he shared.
This early experience grounded him, teaching him an important lesson: “The first thing I got to understand is that nobody is your friend.” He explained that while it’s important to be kind and helpful to others, it’s a mistake to assume that everyone has good intentions.
Reminisce’s view is that the music industry is highly competitive, and everyone is looking out for their own interests. “We all want the same thing,” he said. “So there is no way you’d think everyone is your friend.”
This realism has shaped how he navigates the industry, allowing him to focus on his craft without being weighed down by unrealistic expectations of loyalty from others.
The Responsibility of Fame
One of the most striking aspects of Reminisce’s interview was his insistence that it is the responsibility of a famous person to determine what they want out of life. “It is very normal to have people around you when you’re hot and popping,” he said, but added that not everyone in that circle genuinely supports the person behind the fame.
“As a famous person, it’s your responsibility to determine what you want,” he explained. According to him, it’s crucial for celebrities to be discerning about the people they allow into their inner circle. Many of those who surround stars may not have their best interests at heart, and it’s up to the famous person to filter out those who don’t truly want them to succeed.
“Not everyone around you wants you to succeed,” Reminisce warned. He encouraged fellow artists to stay grounded and to remember that success in the music industry is fleeting. The people who surround a star today may not be there tomorrow if things don’t go as planned.
The Impact of “Alaga Ibile” Album
Reminisce also reflected on the success of his critically acclaimed album Alaga Ibile. The album, which solidified his place in Nigeria’s music scene, was a turning point in his career.
“Alaga Ibile changed my life,” he said with pride. The album’s success not only brought him widespread recognition but also opened doors to collaborations with other major artists in the industry. Songs like “Kako Bii Chicken” and “Tesojue” became anthems, earning him a loyal fan base and establishing him as one of Nigeria’s most respected rappers.
However, with the fame and success came challenges. Reminisce admitted that the pressure to maintain his status in the industry can be overwhelming at times. “After Alaga Ibile, everyone expected more,” he said. “The expectations were high, and I had to keep delivering.”
