Hart Ishmael, popularly known as Idahams is a fast-rising highlife\pop artiste that is setting a new stage in the music industry today. He is a producer and a songwriter with several hit songs to his credit. He recently stormed City People office and was engaged by the Media team I a roundtable interview. Read excerpts from the interview
Who is Idahams?
My name is Hart Idawarifagha Ishmael, I am from River State Port Harcourt. I am a highlife/pop singer, producer, songwriter and entertainer; I started from a church where I played the keyboard, trumpet, bass guitar and other instruments.
Why did you choose music?
Well, I would say I took after my dad and my passion, my dad was a highlife musician. He taught me so many things about music before he died, so growing up was all about music.
Explain your sounds and how you feel it stands out?
My sounds are very unique and I relate them to what is happening in our daily lives. I’m the best in my own style of music better than what anyone can do in the industry.
You claim to be the best highlife artist why?
I actually didn’t say I am better than anyone, I am just trying to take highlife to the next level, I do all kinds of music anywhere you find me you can see me.
What has been the response from your fans?
The response has been great though we thank God.
Which of your songs would you say brought you to limelight?
My song TOAST did bring me to the limelight, Toast really went viral and most of our A-list artist wanted to jump on it. The song Toast is about a man who suffered but later made it in one night.
Who are the artistes you would like to work with?
OMG, I love Simi so much; I really want to work with her. I can drop anything I am doing just to jump on a song with her, and also Duncan Mighty because he taught me one or two things in production and I also appreciate Wizkid.
How long have you been in the industry?
I started my music career at the age of 10 at Anglican Church, where I joined a group and afterwards, I broke out into Grafton Records.
What is your relationship with your record label?
Very nice, apart from the business, we have a very good relationship and connection.
How many artistes in the label?
Just one and Mr. 2Kay.
How does it feel to be on the same label with Mr. 2Kay?
It feels good but if you don’t do something serious people will not take you seriously.
Do you write your one song?
Yes, I do and I also write songs for the A-list artist most of the bangers you hear I wrote them. I have put so many things in place even though I am an upcoming artist.
What inspires your music?
My inspiration comes when I am angry or hurt, especially when my girlfriend tells me something that touches my soul and if I lost money the inspiration is mad I sit alone and start writing.
Apart from music what else do you do?
I can act and I can also do fashion. While in school, I did so many plays for NIJ.
Talk about your educational background?
I dropped out from the University of Port Harcourt then, I went to School of Education, but I have plans to going back to school but not anytime soon.
In five years, where do you see yourself?
Five years is too far for me just give me two years from now because the boss I am getting from my latest song is so good.
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