How Tope Alabi Became My Accidental Back-up Singer – Abiola Alabi

Abiola Alabi, also professionally known as Abiola Goodnews, is a renowned gospel musician, composer and entrepreneur. She achieved international recognition for her recent album, ‘Possibility’, which was classed a master piece and was well received throughout Nigeria with singles such as ‘Mimo’, ‘Orin Ope’, ‘Tete Dide’ and ‘E go better’.

In this no hold barred encounter with  AJIBADE ALABI, she revealed the secret of her success in the music industry. Enjoy the excerpts.

The album ‘Possibility’, is a mixture of up tempo, highlife music, dance fusion and electronic dance music.

Abiola was born into the family of Oladipupo in Abeokuta, Ogun State. She grew up in a Christian household with six siblings. She studied Business Administration and holds various certifications from educational regulatory boards including Faculty of secretaries and administrations, London, United Kingdom and British school of commerce. She worked in the banking and financial sector for several years, and is happily married.

 My interest in music started at a tender age of eight when I joined the choir at my local church, St. Timothy Anglican church, Sango Ota. There, I developed a genuine passion for music and music performance. In my early years, I listened to various prominent musicians whilst in pursuit of my educational and professional excellence, I earned various accolades both in Primary and secondary school as a great singer and show stopper.

I was a music director for several years and also led various musical organizations. I rose to prominence in 1999 with the release of my first album titled ‘Mo so pe’, my stage act is characterized by skilful dancing and melodious compositions.

My musical style is called highlife, which originated in Ghana early in the 20^th century. It is characterized by multiple drum kits, guitars, Jazzy horns, talking drums and up tempo, synth- driven sound melodies.

 I have released five albums prior to my 2017 album. In fact, the wave making Gospel music act, Tope Alabi, once backed me up during the production of one of my albums. This was made possible through her husband who once produced my album.

I hope to be at the top of my game and I want to preach the gospel of my music across the globe although I have ministered at various Churches, concerts and events in Africa and Europe, but I still want to do more.