I Thrive on Challenges, Says Slimflow

Songwriter David Okuna aka Slimflow is a reggae-dancehall singer, performer and music recording producer. Born on the 17th of July 1989, Slimflow talks about his music in this interview.

Can You Tell Us a Little About Your Upbringing?

Slimflow: I was born and raised in Jebbu Bassa community of Plateau State, Jos. I grew up sharing single room with my parents and five siblings. My modest upbringing and close relationship with my family instilled a drive and determination to create a better future, and led me to music. I started my music career doing underground collaborations with Skales Konga and Terry G.

What Are You Working on Currently?

Slimflow: I’m currently working on my first EP [extended play] titled The Return of Leo.

Where Do You See Yourself In A Few Years?

Slimflow: I see myself eventually developing into a leader in the industry vertical space. To get there, I hope to learn even more skills and experiences along the way. I want to continue to deepen my skills.

Who Are Your Role Models?

Slimflow: My role model is Captain Jack Sparrow, obviously minus the insanity. I appreciate his eccentric ways, while he still seems to be quite clever. I am also introverted, so when I am stuck in a social situation, behaving like him makes people a bit more cautious of interacting with me.

Who Is Your Favourite Music Artiste?

Slimflow: My favourite music artiste changes a lot, but right now it is Burna Boy & Damian Marley. One of their best songs is Different. I like the style and the message in the song.

What Inspires You in Life?

Slimflow: What inspires me most a my personal experiences, nature, art and people.

What Keeps You Going When You Get Tired?

Slimflow: I am ambitious and driven. I thrive on challenges and constantly set goals for myself, so I have something to strive toward. I’m not comfortable with settling, and I’m always looking for an opportunity to do better and achieve greatness.

So far, I’ve been able to keep going because I’ve done everything I can to remind myself that long-term thinking is the key to getting what you want. I’ve even learned there might be a hint of scientific fact when it comes to living the life you want. I always feel the resistance. I felt it when I woke up this morning. The night before I start a new week, I’m confident. I tell myself I’m going to have a great week, that I’ll go 7 for 7 and complete everything I set out to do each day.

Do You Welcome Criticism?

Slimflow: Yes, because most of the time we are not hurt by what is said to us but how it has been said. So, we need to welcome feedback, mostly from people who know about the topic.
Just imagine, one who doesn’t sing is criticizing you for not singing well. Would you take that into consideration? Obviously not! So, choose the one who could actually give you genuine feedback and who wants good for you. Instead of paying heed to someone who always has something to criticize.

How Do You Think Record Label and Artist Management Should Be in Nigeria?

Slimflow: The Nigerian music industry has experienced significant growth and influence in recent years. Understanding the role of record labels is crucial. Furthermore, record labels have been at the forefront of technological advancements, utilizing streaming platforms and social media to reach a wider audience. A label typically enters into an exclusive recording contract with an artist to market the artist’s recordings in return for royalties on the selling price of the recordings. Contracts may extend over short or long durations, and may or may not refer to specific recordings.