Terry G
Nigerian musician and producer, Gabriel Oche Amanyi, popularly known as Terry G, in a new interview withSunday Punch, has spoken out on his career and recent controversies sorrounding the Delta State-born self acclaimed Akpako Master
Below are excerpts
Why have you decided to sell packaged water?
I feel water has no enemy and it is a long-term business. I worked hard for my money and I would not want to venture into a business that would collapse. It is something I intend to fall back on later in life. I thank God for my partner who is also my baby mama. She came up with the idea. I still have other businesses in mind like opening a bakery and owning an orphanage as well.
You were recently involved in an auto accident; what are you most grateful to God for?
I thank God for his unlimited grace and also for sparing my life.
Is the use of bells in your songs symbolic?
The bell is an alert, to draw people’s attention to my music. It is a wake up call and I was fortunate to be able to create an image for myself. I really wanted to have an instrument that could be identified with my brand. After I sang the song, Akpako, something was missing in my mind. There were lots of instruments in my studio but I reached for the bell and as I rang it to the song they complemented each other. The song became an instant hit and people began to reckon with the bell. Now, I cannot go anywhere without the bell. I see myself as a timekeeper.
How has fatherhood affected your life?
The impact on me has been positive and it has affected every aspect of my life.
Which song would you consider your greatest hit and why?
I think my greatest hit will be Free Madness, because it gave me the most fame and more money.
You seem to have slowed down a bit and no longer wear body piercings as much as you used to. What influenced your current looks?
I could not have had the same looks forever; change is constant. I stopped because I already set the pace and everybody is piercing their bodies now. I will still do something that they will want to emulate
There has been widespread speculation that you had an affair with actress and model, Beverly Osu. Is this true?
That is a false notion; I was not involved in any amorous relationship with Beverly Osu.
But people who know you said you left her because you did not want to marry someone who drinks and smokes like you do. Was the break-up your fault or hers?
How can you break up with or break the heart of someone you were never in a relationship with in the first instance? We were not in any kind of love relationship; I am her Christian brother and she is my Christian sister. It was a Christian relationship.
Are you still in touch with her?
Yes, I am still in touch with her, but only as a member of my church.
What are the qualities you admire in your baby mama, Mimi?
She is humble, down-to-earth and very understanding. We are business partners.
When do you intend to marry her?
I will let you know when the time comes.
What projects are you currently working on?
I just shot the video of my new single and another video, Ferrari, in Dubai. I started my packaged water business, Terry G Water, in 2014 and I plan to expand it. Also, I plan to attend a football coaching school in England.