TolumiDE interview

TolumiDE (toe-LU-me-day) is a fresh new face to the gospel music industry. With her Nigerian music inspired beats, her musical style is in a class of its own. After listening to TolumiDE’s LP My Love, it is understood that she has done an incredible job of embracing all genres of music in her project. One thing for certain, this DMV resident is fixated on being a spokesperson for Christ.

TolumiDE is such an interesting name. Please explain how you came up with that name.

I came up with the name by fusing my first name ‘Tolulope’ (Praise God) and my last name ‘Olumide’ (God has come). I’m really grateful for the name and figured I’ll make good use of it.

Growing up in Nigeria, who inspired you musically?

In Nigeria, I listened to a lot of different styles of music – ranging from Nigeria’s finest, artists such as: Christy Essien-Igokwe, Onyeka Onwenu, and Sonny Okosun to Western artists like: Anita Baker, Sade, Candi Staton, The Winans, and a lot of Hip Hop and R&B. I believe all the various genres inspired me musically and vocally. My lyrics are inspired mainly by my relationship with God, my life and love.

Your musical style is truly a unique addition to the gospel music industry. Why a style so different from what’s typically heard on TV and radio?

I just want to offer the industry a unique and refreshing sound, and for me, the best route was to maintain a sincere message and spice up the music by fusing both my African and Western influences.

If you could pick any music artist to be your vocal mentor, who would it be and why?

Wow! There are so many artists I could pick. I would have to say Anita Baker. She sings with just the right amount of soul needed to stir emotion and make an endless impression. She is able to convince the audience that what she is singing is true and real. I admire that, and it’s what I hope to do as well vocally.

To date, what is your greatest accomplishment and why?

The My Love album has got to be my greatest accomplishment thus far. It’s like I was pregnant for four years, itching to get the project out, and God just gave me the drive, determination and right network to get it done this year. The talented producers and musicians (Terry Poindexter, Blaise Tangelo, John Bashengezi, Ngouma Lokito, Erik Dennis and Mark Baker) I worked with were a major blessing to the project and truly brought life to the songs.

‘My Love’ is my first full-length album, and to be quite honest, I enjoy listening to it, too. I haven’t gotten tired replaying the album yet. Sometimes I listen to the project and question myself, “Wow, did I really write and sing that?”

What can fans and readers expect from TolumiDE in the future?

The My Love music video has received a really good response, so expect more music videos, more events, shows, and more opportunities to be useful to God. Join my Facebook page and link up with me on Twitter where I post all my new releases, upcoming shows, giveaways, cool restaurants and event picks, ‘cause I like good food and love to go out [laughs out loud]. Continue to spread the word about www.Tolumidemusic.com, and support by buying the album online and in stores. Don’t hesitate to contact me for your upcoming events.

To learn more information about Brian Taylor, check him out on Facebook and/or follow him on Twitter.