Adam Abdullahi Emir, known in the entertainment industry as Fresh Emir, is a music artist, songwriter and actor. In this interview, he talks about confronting those in positions of authority through songs, his latest music video, and more. Excerpts:
Weekend Magazine: What inspired your recently released music video, ‘Wasika 3’?
Adam Abdullahi Emir: I wanted to address the issue of Nigeria’s insecurity and unfulfilled presidential promises to Nigerians. The video is the third in my planned video series to send a message to authorities on the socio-economic problems we face, especially in the northern part of the country. If people watch the videos and listen to the song’s lyrics, they will understand what I am talking about more.
WM: You sounded and acted aggressively in the video…
Emir: It depends on how one interprets the song. Indeed, I was asked where I got the guts to compose such a song and release the video without fear. Some people asked if I wasn’t afraid of being arrested or of living in fear. I simply laughed and told them I haven’t done anything wrong by speaking for my community. I believe if someone has such fear, we would never make progress as a people. I am not afraid of being arrested because I haven’t done anything wrong. What I said is nothing but the truth. Moreover, I have done my homework in trying not to sound offensive or rude in the lyrics I used.
WM: Do you get any kind of assistance in writing your songs?
Emir: I personally write all my songs and, for ‘Wasika 3’, I took my time and had serious consultations with my team in composing the lyrics to avoid being mischievous or disrespectful because it’s a message meant for our leaders.
I got commendations and goodwill messages from all parts of the country for the video. The issues I addressed is a burden to the people and I was a volunteer in delivering the message on behalf of the people.
‘Wasika’ is a medium for sending messages to authorities on issues negatively affecting our people. Radio and television stations have been playing my songs and as such, my messages are being heard far and wide.
WM: What inspired your style of music?
Emir: I have come to realize that, for one to be recognized and respected in the entertainment industry, one has to be very innovative and creative. I have created my kind of Hip-pop music which makes me different from others despite the fact that I do some other forms of music too. Some see me as a preacher while others see me as a freedom fighter, but the actual truth is that I love to be part of every positive change that has to do with my people.
WM: You sound like a non-Hausa speaker in your songs. Is that a stage identity?
Emir: Remember, I told you without innovation one can’t endure the challenges in the entertainment industry. I am from Kano State, born and brought up here. Hausa is my language. I was born in Goron Dutse and did my primary and secondary school all in Kano. I later branched into music because it has been my childhood dream, and to god be the glory I became popular within a short period of time. To me, music is a profession that one can earn a living through and I have no regrets.
WM: How many songs do you have so far?
Emir: I have about eighteen songs to my credit and I have also done a couple of videos for some of my songs. Most of my works can be found on YouTube and other social media platforms.
WM: What would you like to say to your fans?
Emir: I want to thank them for all their prayers because I know they have been praying for me day and night. I want to tell them, I am a living beneficiary of their prayers and they should continue to pray for me as I am committed to doing what will make them happy.
