Sunday 1 February 2015

Meeting Dr Dre, one of the highest points of my career —Fliptyce

Fliptyce is one name that would ring a bell in one’s memory, judging by his immense contribution to the Nigerian music scene as one of its top producers. Famously known for his incredible work on P-square’s chop my money remix featuring international super star Akon, Folorunso Busayo Phillips is a producer that evolved from being paid N1,500 to record a beat, to charging at least $1,500 for one now. He spoke with DOYIN ADEOYE, in this interview, about his career, his new management deal with Dr Dre’s Aftermath Entertainment, among other issues. Excerpts:
You were recently signed to Dr Dre’s Aftermath Entertainments…
Recently, during my last trip, my international manager, Opi One, who operates an outfit, ‘True Shine’ was able to have a partnership deal with bombrush and Aftermath. The deal was for me to be producing some of their songs. It was a big deal for me because Dr Dre is the richest man in this industry and the first to cross a billion dollars in acquisitions. Now, for me to be in the studio with him and shake hands is a big deal. Some may not see it that way, but the fact is that I am the first African producer or entertainer to be in a studio with Dr Dre is phenomenal. So, I feel good about it and I am looking forward to dropping the first release from Aftermath soon.
When and how did you develop the passion for music?
My passion for music started as a child. I started in the choir. We were taught songs; we would write it down in books, rehearse it and render special numbers in those days. I was also a part of a band both in primary and secondary school. I played the bass drum. I remember we used to organise social nights then and mime popular songs. I believe that was the foundation I had and I worked on it. So, music has always been in me.

My brother is my most valuable movie producer —Gabriel Afolayan

A part of the popular Afolayan family, Gabriel Afolayan is a versatile artistic individual with his impressive acting skills and delivery of soulful music. Also known by stage name, G-Fresh, he speaks with DOYIN ADEOYE about his career and relationship with his brothers, among other things. Excerpts:

How was growing up?
It was a normal childhood like every other person’s. It was a very cordial father-son relationship and I loved most part of it. The experience is my antecedent, one cannot rule that out. It is a great influence in what I do today.
What childhood memories do you have?
Although we were young then, we were made to see what he did. We were not very actively involved, but we were there. He showed us a whole lot of stuffs and he made mention of the fact that if any of us was interested, we could pick it up from there.
The path I’m walking right now has always been my childhood dreams. I have always had passion for this. I didn’t deceive myself on anything else.
How did the foray into movies professionally begin for you?
I started as a child actor, so it’s been a long time coming for me. I grew up into the trade. I learnt the trade both formally and informally, so it is something I have always been doing. And it has been an awesome experience. Just like every other business, you have ups and downs; you have it good, bad and ugly. It’s never  smooth sailing, but whatever comes good to you, there is always a journey to it.