Young Abdulra’uf Yusuf known in the entertainment sector as ‘Captain Arewa’ is a Hausa hip-hop singer, blogger and social media influencer making waves in Kano State. In this interview, Captain Arewa speaks on his journey as a singer and blogger, among other issues.
Who is Captain Arewa?
My real name is Abdulra’uf Yusuf. I am a singer, blogger and social media influencer. I am popular under the stage name Captain Arewa. I was born on January 1, 2000 and raised in Kano State. I am 23 years old.
My passion for music started while growing up; I was inspired by northern artist who were doing well in the industry. I started as a studio attendant working with experts in song composing and other aspects that have to do with music. Gradually, I began to try my hands on the computers to compose beats, which I secretly kept for my listening pleasure. Within a short period, I became well versed in the art of composing music because I used to lock myself in the studio throughout the night trying my hands on newly acquired skills in music.
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As days passed by, I began to write and compose songs, especially Hausa hip-pop. That was how I started before moving further to acquire social media management skills that qualified me to manage and handle other star’s social media accounts.
How many songs have you composed so far?
I have composed over 12 songs, out of which songs like ‘Hakan Take’, ‘Karyanku’ and ‘Babu Kudi became street anthems thereby announcing my name as a singer. My songs have been enjoying great patronage, especially on the internet. That was how I became popular as a singer.
You mentioned being a social media influencer as well as a blogger. Can you tell us more about that?
While trying to get my footage as an upcoming artist I realised that there were other opportunities that one can explore and earn lawful earnings as well. So, I took the opportunity and acquired the skill of social media management. This is one of the best decisions I ever made in my life because it accorded me the opportunity of handling social media accounts of many famous Kannywood artist and Hausa singers such as Dauda Kahutu Rarara, Lilin Baba and Adam A Zango, among others.
I later became a blogger through the entertainment cycle and fortunately for me, I am making a fortune out of it.
What do you mean by making a fortune?
What I mean is that there are salient things that knowingly or unknowingly have created and provided a lot of opportunities for uncountable number of youths, especially the internet. It is clear that a lot of youths that are currently doing well in either songs or films on social media and other platforms provided by the internet would have been out there roaming the streets or involved in one criminal activity or the other, trying to make ends meet.
You will agree with me that various singers, actors and actresses among others that ordinarily wouldn’t have made it to the limelight are currently famous due to internet platforms that have given them the opportunity to showcase their talent and be discovered, I am one of those lucky youths.
You will agree with me that many of the celebrated artist in the country were discovered through the internet. They probably wouldn’t have been discovered if not for the internet. However, I personally believe that there is a need for regulatory bodies to be established to monitor the platforms in order to avert issues that may arise for there.
What are the challenges you faced as a singer, blogger and social media influencer?
As a singer, the challenges are not much because the moment you acquire acceptance from the public, you have less or not much challenges. However, the challenges are much with being a blogger and social media influencer because if one is not careful, one would end up being used unjustifiable and that is why I have been calling on bloggers and other social media influencers to be careful and distance themselves from being used by others, especially politicians.
It is disheartening that social media influencers and bloggers, including some musicians, are not aware of the vital role they play in societal unity or otherwise. It is unfortunate many people have been using these mediums for their selfish gain without the knowledge of the operators.
What advice do you think should be given?
It is very vital for the operators to understand their role in positive societal development issues, and that no amount of money is worth destroying our nation.
It is very important to always scrutinize every job given to you as either a singer or a social media influencer, because many of us have been victims of circumstances without intending to be one. I am of the view that no amount of money is worth sacrificing Nigeria for.
How would you describe the entertainment industry?
I foresee an industry that will be the biggest job provider, outside institutions not only in Nigeria but also in Africa. As I said earlier, a lot of able youths are presently gainfully self-employed through the entertainment industry and with support from all relevant sectors, the entertainment industry will in a short period of time be transformed to a giant independent sector that would ensure self dependency among our youths.
Are you married or into any serious relationship?
I am not married yet and as you know marriage is a destiny decided by God. However, when the time comes you will definitely receive an invitation from me.
