AKIN ALABI:i am a success, am not done succeding

akin alabi.

I Am a Success, But Am Not Done Succeeding

Musical videos production in Nigeria has taken an impressive turn in recent years. The days when directors where less recognized is long forgone. Names like Clarence Peters, Unlimited LA, Mr Moe Musa, Adasa Cookey and Sesan ring like a bell in the ears of the Nigerian Music fanatics. In the wake of this scenario, Spotlight’s Esther Odili sat down with multiple award-winning musical video Director Akin Alabi who rank among this highly respected cinematography genius, to discuss his career, life, and achievements. Enjoy.

By:Emegha Phebean

Who is Akin Alabi?

Am the only son in a family of four, I was born in Lagos and I am a native of Ekiti state. I attended a boarding secondary school where I got so much memorable experiences. I am a song writer, graphic designer and a video director. My parents also encouraged me a lot when they discovered my artistic inclinations.

 What is your background?

I did my primary school at Lara day Nursery & Primary school, Ikeja. My secondary school was at Federal Government College (FGC) Idoani, Ondo state while I got my first degree in Business Administration at University of Ilorin, Kwara state.

 Why music video and when did you start?

I decided on video directing after trying my hands on graphics designing,
music production and web designing. I made the switch to video
production around 2003/2004 because I thought it was one job that
combined both visual and sound together.

 What special skills are required in video directing?

You need to be artistic and creative. Also have a good understanding of
how to communicate things effectively using visual images. Also be
able to SEE and not just look at things.

 How do you manage all your skills?

I have been managing all this roles ever since I was in university so
it’s not really a big issue to me. While in d university, I was also
doing business as a graphic designer, I published a book titled “The
Pursuit of Destiny” and I also released an album. I also ran a library
club called Daniels club.

 Which brought you fame?
Video directing brought me fame. My first single titled komole featuring.
Vector in 2011 also gave me another level of fame so to speak.

 Where there limitations on your first video?

My first video was shot on a budget of N25, 000. I remember using the Sony
pd170 to shoot it with a fisheye lens. Shoot it on the street and it was
a memorable experience. No challenges whatsoever.

 What special qualities do you possess that makes you stand out
among your colleagues?

I understand music well because I am a musician too. My pictures and
images are remarkably natural looking and also spectacular in
simplicity.

 With upcoming video directors, how do you cope with competition in
 the industry?

Competition is good for everyone. It makes you push yourself the more.
I love competition.

 Which is more tasking and your most preferred choice, photography,
songwriting or video directing?

Video directing is more tasking because it involves lot of different
Departments and stages. Songwriting and music production is easier for me
because I can handle it alone.

 What would you consider before directing a music video?

The quality of the song Does it speak to me first? I also consider
the money too.

 How well do you relate with your colleagues in the industry?

We relate together very well especially on social media because we don't get to
see physically often.

 How would you describe success, and would you say you are a success?
Success is a personal journey for me and it’s in different stages. I am
a success but am not done succeeding.

 What are the challenges so far?

I don't see challenges again. I see opportunities. The only challenge maybe I will say is I wish I could slow down time.

 Interesting things your fans don't know about you?

I am an indoor person. I don't like talking much except I have something important to say. I used to write a lot when I was younger.

 What are your favourite music videos?

My favorite video would include No be God by Gino, Save me by GT DA guitar man.

 The group TIV, what it stands for?

It stands for the inspired voices.

 How would you describe your songs, secular or gospel?
Aha. I think it’s a blend of both.

 How is musical videos then compared to now?

There has been great improvement. Now we have all the latest video
equipment in Nigeria. Now we have access to good locations. Now we
have better budget to work with.

 Does your family affect your work?

My family and my job actually blend together. My wife and I work from the same office. My children are on set with me sometimes too.

 What have you gained and lost coming into the limelight?

I have gained fulfillment and satisfaction. I don't think I have lost
anything. I do whatever I want to do irrespective of my celebrity
status or fame.