Ibiso Edwards, a sensational gospel artiste, has released a follow-up to her 2011 hit album, Still Here.
Titled, Dima-te, which literally means “changed” in Kalabari dialect of Rivers State, the singer, who prefers to be simply called Ibiso, said Dima-te tells a beautiful story of God’s grace that makes all the difference in life.
“Also, my approach and music expression is changed from good to better with deeper insight. It will sure bless any listener,” she said in a recent interview.
The native of Fouchee town, Rivers State, and graduate of linguistics and communications, University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), with proficiency certificate in basic broadcast presentation at the Alpha Institute of Broadcasting and Communications, explained why it took her four to produce another work.
“In summary, it was in a period of ‘spiritual education’ as I faced ‘battles’ unprepared shortly after my debut. Nevertheless, I came out better and stronger. A ‘testimonial’ in the album speaks more,” she said.
Aside that, music is a complicated art; you don’t just wake up and run into the studio, since, if you do, what you will get out will be for your listening pleasure only, she explained.
“The singer must be inspired to write the lyrics of the songs and also be in the right frame of mind to perform them on record. All these, if followed diligently, will ultimately lead to one producing a good record.
“Most times, artistes are pressured into doing music because of some reasons, but Ibiso does not belong to that category. I do music when the inspiration comes, and so far, it has worked well for me because aside the feedback from my fans, I also enjoy listening to my own music. In fact, I never get tired of it because it inspires me to do more,” she explained.
Ibiso, however, said she was still active on stage during her time off producing albums.
Her words: “I didn’t go on break; I was still active on stage with countless invites. They were moments of revelation as to the profound love God and my fans (I call them friends) have for my music ministry. It’s really humbling and I am honoured to have them.”
The latest album was launched with a smash concert penultimate Sunday. Ibiso explained. “The focus is for Dima-te to be in every home across the nations of the world. It can relate with anyone. We are preparing an ‘online tour’ and we are working on the modalities to achieve this goal. It will be worth it!”
Her debut album, No Cry, with the hit song entitled ‘Anipakabara’ in 2008 sold over a million copies.
Ibiso is winner of Best Artiste of the Year, NDAA (Niger Delta Advancement Awards), GOFA, CMA Awards and among several others to her credit.
