In this interview with YNaija.com, she opens up on growing up, music, love and sex life, and more.

Enjoy.

How was growing up for J’odie? What kind of a child were you?

It is said that the best time to bend a stick is when it is green: my parents observed this rule and did all the moulding while I and my two siblings were children, to the best of their knowledge. It was a very strict environment – a Christian one, which must have contributed to my conservative personality overall.

As a child, I loved to listen to music, draw/colour and steal into the tin of powdered milk at home. I actually used to pray to God to make my paradise a bath tub filled with powdered milk. Now, I’m so glad He doesn’t say “Yes” to all prayers.

You have been off the social scene for some time now, why is that? What have you been up to? What new project(s) are you working on?

Just like I didn’t decide to “get into the social scene”, I didn’t decide to appear to hibernate either.

“In the beginning…” I was busy doing one of the things I enjoy(ed) doing – singing, and consequently got the attention of the public. It wasn’t a deliberate and strategic move to get into the social scene.

I know fame is enjoyable and could be addictive, but over time, I made up my mind not to pursue fame, but to continue living wholly. When I say “living wholly”, I mean achieving a relatively even growth in the different facets of my life – family, career, spirituality, etc. In the name of trying to keep up with one’s social status – especially in the entertainment world, you could do a lot of regretful things to yourself. I am not now saying that all famous people are doing something bad, but there is usually a strong pull to consistently renew one’s fame at all cost, since it fizzles quickly: it takes something really strong to keep one from going to the extremes to satisfy the yearnings of the crowd. Unfortunately, the crowd will never be satisfied – they always want more. It is better to have a life than to spend it living for the crowd – forgetting you (the “star”) need to LIVE too.

In a few days, 2014 will come to end. Would you say it has been a favorable and fantastic year for you?

It has been a very peaceful year for me and my heart is full of gratitude.

What is the best thing that happened to you this year?

I fell deeper in love with myself AND an event took place that made me realise that my family is a gift to me – God bless my mum and dad.

Now let’s talk Music. Who were your early musical influences? What inspires you?

My early musical influence was Whitney Houston of blessed memory. I also listened to a variety of genres and black gospel choirs.

If you had to do a musical collaboration with some foreign artistes, who would you love to work it?

John Legend, Angelique Kidjo, Mary J Blige.

Do you sometimes feel intimidated that Timi Dakolo and Omawumi are getting more recognition than you are?

It is very normal to sometimes look at others – especially ones who were in the same school or class or neighbourhood with us at some point in our lives, and ask ourselves if we are doing well. However, I learnt that people’s seasons differ: definitions (of success) differ. I see things from a rather broad point of view… I don’t see myself as an entertainer solely, but as a little girl in a big wonder-filled world for such a short time (even if I had 150 years) – this totally changes my goals from what you may expect from a typical young Nigerian musician.

How do you see the Nigerian music industry?

I think it’s a bit too clone-like: most people are singing about the same things or using the same beats – as long as everyone is dancing. Although there is a huge growth (business-wise) there is almost no individuality and creativity. If money is the only goal, then that is not a bad thing; but if there are other reasons for music (and I believe there are), then award-giving institutions should reevaluate and reset their goals and actions.

Not everyone can continue singing “sensible” and “creative” music if, at the end of the day, the ones who do the very opposite are greatly rewarded financially and otherwise. I cannot count how many times I’ve heard Nigerians, public figures and people whose opinions are widely respected say, “Nigerian artistes sing meaningless songs.” I’ve heard such on radio, television and even read write-ups about it on social media; but when it comes to reward, almost no one wants to recognize or reward the very few who render quality. It means that artistes are rewarded for doing the things that people claim shouldn’t be done.

It takes an inner compass or a peculiar goal to continue on the quality lane even though you most likely will not be rewarded in cash or through fame. There are some meaningful songs out there, but I’m sure we know which type tops the charts.

You have always said you are single, why is that?

Because it is true: I am not married yet

You once said sex means nothing to you. How do you handle the pressure and modern day belief that stipulates that being a virgin is archaic?

The question of sex and virginity is a private one. I have never publicised my sexuality – yes, even that interview you just referred to: I don’t know whose quote that was.

Now – to the crux, there are many people out there who don’t know who they are or where they are going. Forget the media hype and paparazzi: if people would truthfully bare their inner thoughts, no one wants to stay with someone who is “the national cake”. Keep your privates to yourself and your wedded partner. Forget all that “new age” or “modern” talk on sex and virginity. It may look “cool” to be a sexually loose person on television or magazines, but in real life, people actually respect those who have self control. If the whole world says virginity is archaic, would you want your daughter/son to “go with the flow”?

I don’t take-in everything I see/read on the media…some people who air certain controversial views don’t all air them because they believe in their lip confessions…sometimes it’s to control other people who don’t want to make use of their minds…some even do so just to have more Facebook or Twitter “likes” – such superficial or shady motives seems to be powering the voice of the crowd. But even if it takes centuries, “truth” will be truth.

Tell us about that side of J’odie that fans are not aware of?

I love my dad.

What should fans expect from you in 2015?

I don’t see the future…but if God keeps me alive and in health, there shall be more beautiful songs from yours sincerely, J’odie.