For more than four decades, Adewale Ayuba has made an indelible mark on Nigeria’s Fuji music scene, rising from a young artiste to one of the genre’s most distinctive and influential voices. Yet, behind the fame, Bonsue Fuji and decades of musical success lies a different path Ayuba believes he could have taken. The veteran artiste says if not for Fuji music, he would have been a teacher, a profession he continues to hold in high regard and one that reflects his enduring belief that music, like teaching, should educate, inspire and leave a lasting impact. In this exclusive interview with Tosin Clegg, Ayuba reflects on his musical journey, the evolution of Fuji, his passion for teaching through music, the challenges facing Nigeria’s entertainment industry and the legacy he hopes to leave behind. Excerpts
What informed your style of Fuji and how did you come about it?
My style of Fuji is my decision. And I give glory to God about that. Everybody wants to be different so as to have a niche. So, for me, I just want when people hear about Bonsue Fuji music, this is what you would hear from me. You know we have a lot of Fuji artistes, and if you want to be in a position you desire to be, you have to work hard to make a difference for people to know that this is your own style.
