These were the words of a Gospel artist, a widow and a marriage counsellor, Mrs Mary Ikujenyo.
In this interview with Omolara Akintoye, she speaks about the challenges of promoters in entertainment industry, the story behind her band name, positive impact of the internet on music and her advise to upcoming generation, among other issues.
Tell us about your journey into gospel music, how was it at the beginning?
My journey into gospel music started over 20 years ago, that was when I was taking a lead role in our women’s choir in my church at that time. Initially I never took it serious, but along the line I discovered that whenever I lead the women choir, people were always blessed. It was from there that I ventured into gospel music
How do you derive inspiration regarding your songs?
I derive inspiration for my songs through intense worship with God every day, I also derive inspiration whenever I’m sleeping.
Regarding my songs, I’ve waxed 4 albums to the glory of God. The first one is titled “Ileri Oluwa’ (God’s Promises) followed by ‘Anu ni mo fe’ (I want Mercy) then the third one was titled ‘Tea for God” and the last one ‘’Abanise ni Oluwa’ (God is my Helper). The fifth one is on the pipeline.
…..and your favourite song?
All my songs without any exception are my favourites
Tell us about yourself: Your growing up, career, educational background etc. Are you from a musical or artistic family?
My name is Mary Ikujenyo, married to Prince M.A Ikujenyo, (now of blessed memory) I went to St Mary’s Convent School, Ajele Lagos Island, for my secondary, I attended Premier College known as Anthony Village High school. I obtained a Communication degree. I’m a Christian, a diligent business woman, a mother and a grandmother and also a marriage counselor,
What are your strengths as a gospel artist?
I enjoy praising and worshipping the Name of God 9n my own unique way, I don’t imitate others. I know that I like singing right from my childhood, so God has given me boldness. It is a call from God Almighty and He has been my helper thus far
Who is your ideal gospel artist to collaborate with and why?
My ideal gospel artist is Esther Igbekele and it is because of her charisma and the way she praise God
What single you out among other gospel artists?
It is the way I praise and worship God in my own unique way.
What are the challenges encountered in the Industry and how you were able to overcome it?
My major challenge is that of promoters, majority of them lacks the fear of God. Most times when they come to you they promise you heaven on earth of the way they will help in promoting your songs but the moment you give them money for the job, their number is no longer reachable and they will not do anything. It can be very frustrating
What is the story behind your band and stage name?
My stage name “Tea for God” was given to me by God after waxing my third album. God revealed to me that the kind of tea He wants is intense worship in the early hours of the morning, this I give to him on a daily basis and my life has never been the same.
How can you describe your music?
My music can be described as a Melody that brings joy to all
Tell us your assessment of the songs in the nineties and now. What is the missing link?
There is nothing missing, as it was in the beginning so it’s today and forever.
How do you think internet has impacted gospel music?
The internet has impacted gospel music in a great way: there is fast and easy circulation of songs, and also if you want to know or hear new song just go to internet and download.
If you are to change anything about entertainment industry, what would it be?
One thing I would like to change is people’s mode of dressing, most of so called Christians, their mode of dressing is bad
What is your advice for someone who want to follow your footsteps?.
Fear God and draw closer to Him always
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
I see myself all over the world, singing the praise and Faithfulness of God. My best is yet to come because things are getting better day by day
What is your philosophy about life?
My philosophy about life is God first, others second and myself last.
