9th December, 2011
Popular Fuji musician, Sule Alao Malaika, speaks on his career, private life and relationship with the late Fuji music icon, Alhaji Ayinde Barrister
How has life been as a popular Fuji musician?
The road had been rough and tough, but prayers and faith have been sustaining me. We have come this far and I believe I will get there. The journey of a thousand miles starts with a step. Itâ€
Why did you make that decision initially, are there bad memories?
Yes, many bad memories. There was a year I was billed to perform at a wedding party in Ikeja and things were going fine until the brideâ€
What informed the title of your new album, Proper Music?
I dedicated the album to the late Sikiru Ayinde Barrister. He was a prosperous man when he was alive. He was a good musician, so whatever we want to do for him should be proper. That is why I chose that title because I took my time before I composed the songs in the album. I have been recording albums for years now, but I really took my time doing this particular one.
What was your relationship with him when he was alive?
When Alhaji was alive, we used to speak on phone almost everyday. Even when he was ill and was out of the country, we communicated regularly. When he was in Havana Hospital, I also went there regularly to see him.
What is the situation of things between you and your warring colleagues now?
Barrister did a lot before he died and he even succeeded in restoring peace to the Fuji music circle. I can tell you that the future of Fuji is bright because there is discipline now. Any musician that goes out of his way to abuse anybody will be banned.
Meaning you donâ€
You see, what used to happen then was basically business rivalry and because we are popular, anything we do gets to the public. Rivalry occurs in every business, but ours is more pronounced because of our kind of work and popularity.
Why do musicians marry more than one wife?
You see, what I want you to look at is how many musicians have their wives under their roof. This work is one you can’t predict just because you have so much commitment. I am an indoor person and donâ€
Did you marry two wives because it has become almost a norm among Fuji musicians?
I married my wives because I love them as I love my family. How many musicians have you seen with two wives in their home at the same time? You see, I canâ€
Any plan to marry more wives?
No, I will be going beyond my limit. I am okay with my two wives and my children. Although, itâ€
How do you handle women who are bent on dating you?
You know I canâ€