Regina Ray is a new entrant into the Nigerian music industry and she is set to hit the industry with a bang when her debut album hit the market. This Edo State-born singer married to a French national, in this chat with GIST PLUS, she revealed that she has been into music for the past two and half years now and many more. Excerpt.
Tell us about yourself?
I am Regina Ray, I’m from Edo State, but married to a French national with a son. I am a student at the Alliance Franchee. I love singing and dancing. In fact, I have been into the music industry for two and half years now. I actually started in Port Harcourt, and my first musical video was titled “Juju” featuring Funky. The second video “You De Break My Heart” is currently rocking the airwaves, which a lot of people are already in love with.
How did you come into the music industry?
I came into the music industry when one of my friends encouraged me to take up music professional, saying since I have a very good voice and know how to sing too. Since then, those that have come across to my music don’t have any choice than to appreciate what I can offer.
What are the challenges you have faces since you came into the music industry?
Lot of challenges that have to do with money and human being, but one must also know that there nothing in life without it’s challenges. So the challenges that have come my way so far are not new and not what I can not over come.
When do you hope to release your first album in the market?
If all things work out well, as I am presently discussing with some marketers, I think by December this year, it will be release.
With ever growing Nigeria music industry, what are you coming to contribute in the industry?
I am an inspirational musician. I am coming to give people hope on love, life to their career, destiny life challenges among others. I am that musician coming to be the real role model the up and coming musicians truly look up to in future. My songs will let people know that no matter the challenges one might be facing, if one work hard, he will definitely achieve bountiful success.
Who are your role models in the Nigeria Music industry of today?
I like D’Banj, Asa and PSquare, but this does not mean I do not appreciate others. In fact, the Nigerian musicians are very creative and they are doing wonderfully well.
Where do you hope to see yourself in the next five years musically from now?
By the special grace of God, I hope to see myself at the top where people should be able to appreciate me and my music, and also talk very good of me.
Who are the artistes you will like to have music collaboration with?
I would love to have music collabo with D’Banj, Asa, Psquare and MI.
With the piracy problem in the industry today, are you not afraid venturing into the industry?
The problem has long been there and many of artistes are still joining the industry, I don’t see why I should be afraid, moreover, a lot is being done to reduce the piracy problem and coming into the industry, I am going to join hand with others to see what we can both do about it. However, the government at all levels should also do more on this, the musicians themselves have to come together for what they truly want.
Are you aware of the musical body called PMAN?
Yes, I am actually planning to belong to the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN).
The shows you have performed.
I have not really performed in any shows in Lagos since I just relocated from Port Harcourt, but In Port Harcourt, I did took [art in so many that I have sincerely lost count of,
What are the things that motivate you before going on stage?
Oh! Dressing very sexy of course motivates me.
Then when you are on stage?
I dance a lot. I am a good dancer and good music makes me to its rhythm, and if I have good back up dancers too, it motivates me also.
Have you experienced any negative remarks from the public?
No, because I always make my private life right.
How do you carry your audience along?
Whenever I am on stage performing, I love to come down to Nigerian flavour by using Pigin English to sing instead of using too much grammar. Moreover, I must add here that it depends on the events, because every audience has its own way of approach. If your audience is those that love street music, you have to come to their level. One just has to flow with his or her fans in the best level they can understand and appreciate the music. It is the event that determines how I carry the audience when on stage.
The craziest thing you have ever done on stage?
Wearing bum short, I like to look sexy on stage. Some people normally think that I am a crazy person, but that is me, I hate to pretend. I like wearing short things on stage; it brings out the best from me.
How do you balance your home front and music career?
My husband is very understanding and supportive of my music career. I balance them up very well. I want to add here that my family comes first before music, so I don’t want my music career to come before my family. I love my husband and son; they are first before my music. Though, I need money, but I am not into music for the primary objective of money.
Are you planning to take to music professionally?
Yes, professionally, even in abroad, musician still do other things apart from music.
Advice to up and coming musicians.
You just have to work hard, pray to God to grant you favour in all you do, because without God’s favour, all your labours will definitely be in vain. Do not come into the industry because of money or fame as the primary objective, but come into the industry for the love and passion you have for music and entertainment in general, then fame and fortune will be added unto you.
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