Rap is an Expression of Self - Efa

My name is Efa Iwara, a.k.a Efa. I’m a rapper and actor. I was born in Ibadan but moved to Lagos about three years ago. My brother who was in a musicl group stirred my passion in music. Then they always practiced around me and sometimes made me hum the beat. Soon after, I started to write. I wrote my first verse when I was nine. It was crap but by age14, I have started rapping. Somehow i got invited by another musical group to rap and soon afterwards I met a few other guys and we came together to form the group X-Factor. We put together a few songs that gradually got airplay. It was from the group that i was discovered by my current record label. That basically summarises the story of EFA.

Who inspired you to get into rap?

I grew up watching King Sunny Ade and later, Mode 9. Also, my dad used to sing too. Since then, I have come to respect artists like D’banj, Mode 9, Mi, Naeto C, Ice Prince, P-Square and a host of others. They have put in a lot of work and energy.

How do you manage acting and music?

The jobs tend to clash and though I love doing both, I’ve decided to stop the heartbreak and drop acting. I love to rap. The crowd’s appreciation is drug-like; thrilling and satisfying. I can’t imagine doing anything else. Music is my life. I acted on Tinsel for a while but had to conentrate more on music which is my focus.

Is Waka EP your first album?

Waka EP is my first collection of songs. Prior to that, I did a couple of singles: E.F.A, ‘If you want me’ with Mo’ Cheddah, a couple of features with DJ Klem ‘Try Again’,and ‘Farabale’; but this is my first collection.

What are the challenges of your art?

Sometimes business is slow but you have to keep looking forward. I look at them as part of the growing stages. Challenges encourage me.

How has the reception been?

With my folks it’s a little of both worlds. My dad is a retired professor and he just wants to see me succeed in anything I do. My mum hesitates sometimes but she supports me, sometimes helping out with outfits for shows. With the audience it’s a bit different mainly because there’s a lot of Nigerian sound going on. The Waka EP is me trying something different. At the Nigerian Idols in PH, I saw a guy singing my Number 1 track so it’s good to know that they are listening and enjoying it. It shows thatthe track is getting the right feel. One time my dad called to say he saw me on AM express on NTA and that for me was a high point.

What are the financial benefits like?

It could be better. Growing in the industry has its challenges but it is part of the process. Things are changing though.

What was the idea behind your new video, Number 1?

Number 1 was actually recorded on my birthday for a few followers on twitter. The reception was good and we decided to do a video to the song and I guess it did its work.

What artist have you worked with and which would you like to work with?

I’ve worked with Jamal, a fantastic singer; Pasha, Yemi Sax and Yemi Alade. We did a lot of love songs, MI on Illegal Music II, Beazy, Akeem, YQ and Tony Touch. I would love to work with Coldplay and probably Enya. They are not exactly rap icons but for me Rap is an expression of self. On the local scene, I would love to work with Don Jazzy, not just on production but singing. His voice is different but very cool, likewise Mode 9, Wande Coal, Tu face and a few others.

What does Efa do with his spare time?

It depends on where I am at the time. I could be reading, seeing a movie, or chatting with friends, watching football and other regular stuff. Other times, I’m more driven by work. You’ll usually find me at the studio, doing one work related thing or the other.

Is rapping a long time thing or is there a plan afterwards?

Well, I love to rap but one day, I hope to own a record label, discover and help up and coming artists. I want to put time, money and efforts into helping them achieve their dreams. Another dream is probably to get in movie directing and all. It will be most satisfying to give back to upcoming entertainers the skills I have acquired.