by Wilfred Okiche

Though Jim Donnet is a Civil Engineering student of Covenant University, he has music on his mind. He is steadily focused on his craft as he works his way to the top. He shares the journey so far with YNaija.

Describe yourself in one sentence.

I’m simplicity personified.

What kind of music do you sing?

R & B, Pop & Soul. I wouldn’t mind Rap collabos.

Where does your inspiration come from?

Life experiences, and on some vary rare occasions, fiction.

You study civil engineering. How do you intend to pursue music?

Music is an inborn thing. You make it sound like a task when you use the phrase ‘pursue’. Rather I’d say that I’ve set a standard for myself and I’m only pressing towards achieving that mark.

We hear that it can be tight for young people in Covenant University who want to be in entertainment. Is that true?

I don’t quite agree with that. Currently, there are students of the university who are sojourning the entertainment sector. And it has been most productive for them thus far.

When did you start to sing?

My childhood days. Started in my church’s children’s choir.

Where have you sung?

Mostly my church and school., the highlight of it been 2010’s Convocation where I led the school choir in a scintillating rendition.

How have you tried to take it into the mainstream?

I’m currently on course with that.

Does your family support your music?

Yes. My family has always been a pillar of support to my dreams and aspirations regardless of what they are.

When did you finally realize that you could sing?

I always knew I could. The thing is that every time, I kept on realizing that I could get better at it.

Who are your influences/role-models?

Beyonce is a major influence. I’ve followed her through from the days of her humble beginnings to this era of being the most powerful female vocalist of all time. Lucky Dube as well. I grew up listening to a lot of his songs. God bless his soul. Then there’s Kim Burrell. Darn! That lady can saaaaiiinnng.

What do you do to develop the talent?

I just keep on singing to exercise myself vocally. I take on personal vocal training sessions and vocal development practices.

When will the public be able to share your music?

Pretty soon.

What other things do you do?

I read. I write. I dance.

When have you been at your happiest?

I think that would be the day I took the lead in the song the school choir performed at the 2010’s convocation ceremony. The joy I derived from it is still indescribable up till now.

Does anyone in your family sing?

No! Though my paternal background has a lot of ‘local’ music fused in their culture.

There are number of music shows and competitions – are you trying any of them?

Well, I auditioned for the just concluded Glo Naija Sings, but it’s not something I’m really looking forward to.

What would you want to be your biggest accomplishment?

Receiving a lifetime achievement award on an international platform. It is like the closing page to the book of one’s music sojourn.