Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Sunny Green Itodo
Published on 2024-02-08 12:03:45
Nigerian music artist, Crown Uzama, known by his stage name Shallipopi, recently shared the origins of his unique stage name in an interview with British media personality Madame Joyce. According to Shallipopi, his stage name was inspired by the 1994 Chinese kung fu comedy film, Shaolin Popey. He revealed that he had tried using his birth name, Crown, and other nicknames like Drip Face before settling on Shallipopi.
In the interview, Shallipopi recounted how he came across the movie that would ultimately inspire his stage name. He explained that as a child, his mother purchased what they thought was a Tom And Jerry CD, only to find that it was actually the movie Shaolin Popey when they played it in their DVD player. It was this accidental discovery that led him to draw inspiration from the film for his stage name.
Regarding his music, Shallipopi made it clear that his genre is not Afrobeats, but rather what he calls “afro-talk.” He emphasized that he doesn’t consider himself a rapper, but rather a talker. This distinction reflects his unique approach to his music and the message he aims to convey through his songs.
Shallipopi’s revelation about the origin of his stage name sheds light on the diverse sources of inspiration that artists draw from when crafting their public personas. The fact that a Chinese kung fu comedy film from the 1990s played such a pivotal role in shaping his identity as a musician speaks to the global influences that contribute to the rich tapestry of contemporary music.
The interview also provided insight into Shallipopi’s creative process and the thought behind his musical identity. By articulating his genre as “afro-talk” and distancing himself from the label of a traditional rapper, he is carving out a unique space for himself within the music industry. This deliberate approach to defining his artistry sets him apart and positions him as a distinctive voice within the Nigerian music scene.
As an up-and-coming artist, Shallipopi’s story offers a glimpse into the intricate and often unexpected paths that lead individuals to pursue careers in music. His journey from stumbling upon a movie as a child to adopting a stage name that would ultimately become his artistic identity is a testament to the power of chance encounters and the lasting impact they can have on one’s life.
In sharing his story, Shallipopi has given fans and listeners a deeper understanding of the person behind the music. By revealing the influences and experiences that have shaped his journey, he has established a more intimate connection with his audience, inviting them to appreciate the intrinsic meaning and significance of his stage name and artistic vision.
Ultimately, Shallipopi’s story serves as a reminder of the myriad inspirations that fuel the creative process and the importance of embracing individuality in a world of mass-produced artistry. As he continues to make his mark in the music industry, his unique perspective on music and identity is sure to resonate with audiences looking for authenticity and originality in the artists they support.
Read the original article on Daily Post
