Source: Punch NG.
Background
My name is Imelda Okwori but I am popularly called Imelda J. The J is coined from Mary Jane. I picked it to distinguish the Imelda because many ladies bear that name.
Family
I was born into a humble family of four. I have a brother and two younger sisters. We are all Christians. I attended nursery and primary schools in Benue State before proceeding to the Federal University of Agriculture, Markudi, where I read Science Education.
Music career
I grew up loving music. I was encouraged from a very tender age by my mother, who was also a musician in her days. When I started performing, she encouraged me to perform at birthday parties and other social gatherings. Professionally, I have been in the entertainment industry for the past three years.
No threats
I don’t see anyone as a threat in the industry because I believe it’s big enough for all of us. I released a song ‘My love for you’ which was produced by OJB Jezreel. I also did a song with Side 1. My latest single, ‘Bread and Butter’ was produced in May 2014 and we are working on the video. In addition to that, I did a song to support the campaign for the release of the abducted Chibok girls entitled; ‘Only love can change the world.’ My music genre is afro-pop.
Inspiration
My inspiration is from my surroundings; personal experience and experiences of others. I write songs when I am heartbroken, in love or happy. I don’t steal songs of other artistes. Everything that comes to me is from God and the Holy Spirit.
Challenges
Music is paying my bills. The only challenge I am facing at the moment is the fact that I am a woman. Being a female in the industry is challenging. Male artistes do not face the kind of problems we face but many want to take advantage of female artistes. Getting a sponsor is very difficult due to this factor. Recently, I had a record deal but the sponsor insisted on dating me before committing funds to the project.
Romance with Jaywon
I have never dated Jaywon. The rumour started when we did a song together. Then, at the same period, my phone was also stolen and somebody extracted pictures from the phone and started making up stories about me and Jaywon. At that time, rumour mill was agog that I was pregnant for him.
Love life
My love life is complicated. Men feel insecure around me. They believe it is not possible for me to date only one man. I am not as wayward as assumed. For a man to be with me, he has to accept my career.
Disappointing moments
I have had several disappointments. I have looked up to people and believed in them, thinking they also believed in me but when I needed them most, they turned their backs on me. I have been betrayed many times.
Happy moments
What keeps me happy is doing a song and watching it make others happy.
Sex appeal
Some say I have a killer smile; others say my lips and hips are beautiful. Since a lot of people say such things to me, I believe them. What people don’t know about me is that I am very fragile and I have a tender heart. I play the keyboard very well and I love domestic chores.
Most embarrassing moments
I remember going for shopping one day and on my way back, the heels of my shoes came off as I was walking. My sister had to go to the car to fetch me a pair of slippers. At another time, I was on stage in Bayelsa State and a fan came and kissed me on the lips.
Style
I love striking colours on my body and hair. I don’t follow trends. I love it when I am comfortable. I also love designer pieces. My shoes depend on what I am putting on but I love heels and wedges.
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