From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The memories of ‘Nigeria’s Lady of Songs’, Christy Essien-Igbokwe were brought back recently during the National Diaspora Day celebration when her 10-years-old granddaughter, Christiana, captivated the audience with the unique rendition of her hit song, Seun Rere.
Despite her young age, Christiana is a seasoned performer who is set to release her 1st album. However, her path to becoming a singer was not without obstacles, as her parents initially opposed her musical aspirations.
In this interview with Saturday Sun, the child prodigy shared her story. Here are excerpts:
You are Christiana Igbokwe, the granddaughter and namesake of legendary musician, Christy Essien-Igbokwe. How does that make you feel?
Christy Essien-Igbokwe is my grandmother. My father is her second son. Even though, I never met her, I was named after her and I am proud to be her descendant. I am following in my grandmother’s footsteps because I love music.
How long have you been doing music?
I started recording when I was seven, but I started singing when I was like 3-years-old.
So, how do you feel performing before a large crowd consisting the president’s representative, diplomats, and Nigerians in the Diaspora?
I feel elated but at the same time, it was an emotional moment. I feel good. It was an honour to perform before them all.
Did your parents push you into doing music?
No. It’s what I want to do. Funny enough, my parents didn’t want me to do music. But they had to support me when they realised that they couldn’t get me to stop.
What can you say about your grandma, Christy Essien-Igbokwe even though you never met her?
I never met her but my dad told me a lot about her. She was a strong and courageous woman, and also kind-hearted. I listened to her songs and watched some of her videos.
Why did you perform one of her hit songs, Seun Rere?
It’s because I like the lyrics of the song; it inspires me.
Aside music, what other things do you like about your grandma?
My grandma was a philanthropist as well, and that inspires me. I have an NGO called ‘Santa In A Box’ where I sometimes give money to orphans, pay their school fees, and also give them gifts.
How old is Santa In A Box?
It is about four or five years old. I have been doing this since I was five, with the help of my parents.
How do people react when they know you are late Christy Igbokwe’s granddaughter? Do they give you special treatment?
Not really special treatment but people are happy with me. Some say they want to be like me; some wish they were me. They sometimes ask for my autograph.
You got some people dancing when you performed at National Diaspora Day, did you expect that reaction from the audience?
Yes, it was an emotional and happy moment for me.
How soon are you releasing your album?
The album will come out soon, but I cannot tell you the date until I am ready.
How would you describe your kind of music?
My kind of music is pop.
How many songs are in your upcoming album? Can you give an insight to it?
It’s supposed to be a surprise. I can’t tell you all of them, but what I can tell you is that I have songs in English, Igbo and Yoruba. And I can tell you that the title of the Yoruba song is Ife.