Fast-rising R and B singer spoke with Temitope Adetunji about his music career, family background,  his passion for music and his newly released song titled “Obimo ”

What’s your brand name and tell us about it

My name is Efemena, but I go by Mena J. Mena comes from Efemena which is my native name, it means my wealth, the J comes from Junior as I’m the last child from a family of 5.

When did it start and for how long have you been doing what you do?

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always loved singing. Growing up, I used to sing along to songs on the radio and television. And then I would sing to my friends for fun, even going as far as performing for my classmates in secondary school during break time.
Professionally, I would say it all started in 2008 when I fell in love with the Guitar. I had to sell my Nokia phone to get one. At the time, I had no tutor so I had to learn on my own how to play simple guitar chords online that was how it all started.

 What inspired you into choosing this path

In all honesty, I didn’t set out on this path. I moved to Lagos in 2017 and it was around this time I opened an Instagram account and started posting acoustic covers of songs. I got reposts from the likes of Don Jazzy, Praiz, Tiwa Savage, Iyanya and many others. It was then the realization dawned on me that I was on to something. I began writing my own songs, and here we are today.

 The industry seems to be saturated already with a lot of stars, what’s the uniqueness of your brand that will make you stand out?

I believe we are all unique in our own way. I know I’m good at what I do and how I do it. I always find a way to people’s hearts when I sing or perform. This is something I intend to maximize, so watch out for Mena J.

 How has it been so far?

I would say it’s great so far, and it’s only going to get better.

 What was the reaction of your parents when they discovered you chose a career in music?

They already know I love singing. Back then, during morning devotion, I come up with songs and they loved it. Though they always wanted me to do gospel. So far they’ve been supportive, their words of encouragement have been helping me.

Who inspires you within and outside the industry?

I would say Westlife, Styl-Plus, Wande Cole and Don jazzy. They are my biggest inspiration

 What’s the biggest moment of your career since you started?

The biggest moment will be 2017 when I got a repost from Don Jazzy for a cover I did on Instagram. I almost broke the screen of my phone out of excitement, because after uploading and tagging him, it took him all of 5 minutes to comment and repost it on his page. I was mindblown.

 Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans?

I always keep it real and simple.

 Have you ever dealt with stage fright?

Yes, I have and It wasn’t funny at all. However, I believe it’s all part of the experience and learning process.

 Have you released any song? How did you feel after your debut song was released?

Yes, I have. I just released my debut single Obimo last week and the feedback from people all over the world has been encouraging I must say.

Tell us anything you want your fans to know

I would like to thank them for their support so far and to expect a lot more songs and collaborations this year.