Your debut album JOURNEY is impressive. How did your collaboration with renowned songwriter/producer Terry Shaddick (Olivia Newton-John - "Physical") come about?

I was introduced to Terry Shaddick by a mutual friend named Robin Randall who was one of my instructors at the Musicians Institute. Terry and I struck a cord easily partly because we see things the same way musically and that helped to shape the vision we have for my album "Journey". Terry is my mentor and it was an honor working with him on this album because through that process, I learned a lot about the music business through him and so, for that reason I appreciate and have high regards for him.

You were born and raised in Nigeria and are now based in the L.A. area via some time spent in Europe. During this international journey, who have been your strongest influences... the person or persons who have they helped transform you into the artist you are today?

My parents were into music and so, I grew up listening to various kinds of music, like soul, classical, jazz, Afro beats, R&B, Reggae and country music etc. I was influenced by great artist like Ray Charles, Marvin Gaye, Donny Hathaway, Al Green, Aretha Franklyn, Stevie Wonder, all the Motown legends. I also admire and respect the musical style of Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughn, Nancy Wilson, Frank Sinatra, Peggy Lee and Sade. The work of these legends helped me to capture my own style.

You've been singing since you were seven, and writing poetry since you were ten. How would you describe your song writing process?

For the most part, writing for me is never planned. I can just be sitting down, having a quiet moment and suddenly a melody comes into my head or a poetic phrase comes into thought and instinctively I write it down. I carry with me a writing pad because I want to be ready for these magical moments. of course, I then go back to my writing pad to structure the melody, and words. I appreciate those magical moments because that's what gives me the drive to write songs.

What aspect of the recording process do you find to be the most exciting?

Getting in front of the mic and singing from my heart. That is when I connect with the words, meaning, and emotions behind the song, bringing the song to life.

Who are some of your favorite new artists?

I really like Maxwell, Lizz Wright, Cold Play, Robin Thicke, Norah Jones and Amy Winehouse.

What do you miss about your native country?

I miss those large extended family gatherings were we come together to have fun and tell folk stories.