Introducing Arinola

Arinola is the latest gospel artist on the scene, I heard her at church a few Sundays ago and her music spoke volumes to me - so I just had to share. I managed to catch up with her and here's the scoop. Arinola grew up in Lagos Nigeria, she's the third of four children and was introduced to music at a very young age by her Father; an avid music lover himself. She joined the choir whilst in primary school and hasn’t be able to put the mic down since.

So you were bitten by the music bug at a pretty young age, do you remember exactly when it all began?

As a teenager, I remember joining the church choir because the keyboardist was very cute and I needed to give my parents a reason to go to church during the week (just so that I could see him). Little did I know it was actually the start of my journey. The keyboardist of course moved on and I had to stick to my commitments to the choir.

Tell us about your first time on stage?
My first time on stage was years ago at the local church my sister attended in London. I was asked to do a special number at one of their events.

So why have you chosen to stick with gospel and not venture into a more secular genre? Every genre has an identity and Gospel music's identity is rooted in the message of Christ. As a Christian, I identify with and believe in that message. My writing is inspired by my relationship with God and I hope to share my music with the world.

Tell us a bit about the making of your debut album ‘The Secret Place’
The original plan was to finish the recording within a year but it took two years in total to complete and produce the album. I started recording in July 2009 and a few months in I found out that I had nodules; my voice was getting husky and I was struggling with some of my high notes...so I wasn’t at my best. I took some time off to see a voice therapist...and ya'know some of the songs were written 5 years ago.

We thank God you were able to complete it. So who's the production team behind you?
The album was recorded and produced by Tolu Okeowo (Psalms Records UK) and was released under Fusion Records Ltd, my own label.

What do you want people to ‘get’ from this album Arinola?
The aim of the album is to draw the listener into a deeper relationship with God. To keep their mind and thoughts focused on Him.

So what’s next for you?

I plan to tour the United Kingdom, the United States and Nigeria over the next six to nine months. You can also catch me worshipping through song at Jesus House in Brent Cross (London) as part of the Tribe of Judah choir. As an artist my album is available on my website www.arinolamusic.com.