By CHRISTY ANYANWU
Veteran songster, performer cum event compeer, Rotimi Martins a.k.a Alariwo of Africa is sure one confidant entertainer, a consummate showbiz personality. He started his career as a radio presenter before he embraced music. A good dresser and mostly in native outfits, the musician recently talked about his firsts.
First day on stage as a musician
I can’t remember. Sincerely speaking, I can’t. Before I became Alariwo I was a radio host. I’m a broadcaster; so going on stage was not new to me at all. I have been doing it for a long time. I can’t remember the first time I went on stage as regards the year but I have never had stage fright. I don’t take alcohol to perform. After I pray, I go on stage, I deliver and I get out. I don’t smoke to impress anybody. I don’t take alcohol; I don’t do all that stuff people talk about musicians. I never had stage fright from birth. Music is innate to me.
First album
It was released in 1998 and titled Yawa go gash. It was sponsored by Femi Lasode. It was an interesting and exciting piece. I was proud that I released an album that year and to God be the glory.
First video
It was titled Ojuelegba and was sponsored by Femi Lasode as well.
First pet
I never had any.
First car
My first car was a Starlet. I gave it out two years after I bought it. I felt I should just support the person and be a blessing.
First trip abroad as a musician
That was in 1999. I toured America, Canada, France and Australia. I just went on stage to deliver. I’m just a performer. I wasn’t nervous or scared. I just went on stage and did my thing.
First time as Alariwo
I was nicknamed Alariwo when I was growing up at Oregun in Ikeja long before I became popular. Even as a broadcaster, I was called Alariwo of Oregun. That was my nickname before I became Alariwo of Africa. I was living at Oregun at that time.
First paycheck
I never worked for anybody before then but for my father back then. I think my first pay was N500 and I was working with Eko FM. That was my first salary. At that time, I had to save to make ends meet.