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What inspired you to pursue a career in gospel music, and how do you hope your music will impact your listeners?
Before I delve into the question, will like to briefly introduce myself.
Name: Abdu Bildad
Stage Name: SoN “B”.
Background: Kaltungo Local Government Area of Gombe state, Nigeria.
Current city: Abuja.
Education: (M.sc) B. Sc
Occupation: officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
My journey into gospel music began in my childhood within the Boys Brigade, where I was immersed in the world of music through their band program. This early exposure fostered a deep appreciation for the power of sound and its ability to evoke emotions.
The structured environment of musical training, coupled with the spiritual context of the Boys Brigade, instilled in me a desire to use music for a higher purpose. My formal training as a musichologist, specializing in wind and percussion instruments, provided me with the technical skills to express myself musically.
I’m driven by a passion to create gospel music that resonates with listeners on a spiritual level. I hope my music offers comfort and hope during difficult times, reminding people of God’s grace and unwavering love. Beyond comfort, I aim to inspire listeners to live lives that reflect their faith, encouraging them to pursue positive change and contribute to a stronger community. Ultimately, I strive for my music to facilitate spiritual renewal, emotional upliftment, community building, and positive transformation in the lives of those who hear it.
Your music style is quite unique. Can you tell us about your creative process and how you blend different genres to create your distinctive sound?
My unique musical style is a direct result of my diverse musical experiences. My foundational training in the Boys Brigade, where I honed my skills playing wind and percussion instruments in a regimented setting, instilled in me a deep understanding of musical structure and discipline. This rigorous training provided a strong base upon which I could build.
As I matured, I developed a growing interest in vocal music and began exploring various genres. My creative process is iterative and experimental. It begins with a period of deep listening, where I immerse myself in different musical styles, analyzing their elements and identifying what resonates with me.
This is followed by a period of experimentation, where I try different combinations of genres, melodies, and rhythms, allowing my intuition to guide me. I then refine these ideas, carefully crafting each element to create a cohesive and distinctive sound that blends the influences of my musical journey. This process of listening, experimenting, and refining is ongoing, allowing my musical style to continually evolve.
What role does faith play in your music, and how do you ensure that your lyrics and message align with your values and beliefs?
Faith is not just an element in my music; it’s the very core of it. It serves as the primary source of inspiration, fueling my creativity and shaping the message I convey. My spiritual beliefs permeate every aspect of my songwriting, from the initial spark of an idea to the final arrangement.
I approach songwriting with a deep sense of purpose, seeking to express the essence of my faith through music. I carefully consider the themes I explore, ensuring they align with my values and beliefs. This involves a process of introspection and reflection, where I examine my own spiritual journey and seek to articulate the truths that resonate most deeply with me.
I focus on themes of hope, love, resilience, and the pursuit of positive change, all grounded in my faith perspective. By remaining true to my beliefs and grounding my music in authentic spiritual expression, I strive to create music that is both meaningful and impactful.
As an upcoming artist, what are some of the challenges you’ve faced in the industry, and how have you overcome them?
The music industry, particularly for an emerging artist, presents a multitude of challenges. One of the most significant hurdles is financial constraints. Creating and promoting music requires investment, and securing funding can be difficult.
Time management is another major challenge. Balancing my musical pursuits with other responsibilities, including my work and personal life, demands careful planning and discipline. A lack of knowledge about the business side of the music industry has also presented obstacles. Unfortunately, I’ve encountered individuals who have attempted to take advantage of my naivety. Building a strong and reliable network of contacts is crucial, but it takes time and effort. Burnout and frustration are also common challenges, particularly when progress seems slow.
Navigating the complexities of interpersonal relationships within the industry, including potentially toxic relationships, requires discernment and strong boundaries. To overcome these challenges, I’ve adopted a multi-pronged approach. I prioritize continuous learning, seeking out resources and mentors who can provide guidance. I’m also committed to building genuine relationships with other musicians and industry professionals.
I’ve learned to be more discerning in my dealings, carefully evaluating opportunities and seeking advice from trusted sources. Most importantly, I maintain a strong sense of purpose, reminding myself of the passion that drives me and the positive impact I hope to make through my music.
What’s next for you? Are you working on any new projects or collaborations that you’re excited about, and where do you see yourself in the next few years?
My immediate focus is on the release of my upcoming album. This project represents a significant step forward in my musical journey, allowing me to showcase my growth as an artist and share my music with a wider audience. I’m incredibly excited about the songs I’ve written and the overall artistic direction of the album.
I believe this project will serve as a platform for me to further develop my skills, learn from the challenges I’ve faced, and achieve some of my initial career goals. Beyond this album, I’m eager to explore collaborations with other talented musicians and producers.
I believe that collaboration is a powerful way to expand creatively and reach new audiences. In the next few years, I envision myself establishing a stronger presence in the gospel music scene. I aim to continue honing my craft, refining my unique style, and building a dedicated following.
I also aspire to use my music to inspire and uplift others, making a positive contribution to the world through the message of my songs. I’m committed to continuous growth, both as an artist and as an individual, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me.
Follow the link to stream his songs HERE
