INTERVIEW: Nissi Ogulu on juggling engineering with singing, painting

It is safe to refer to Jehovah-Nissi Ogulu as a polymath. This is because she is not only treading many career paths but is also extremely good at everything she does. From being a singer to a mechanical engineer, animator, and graphic artist, Nissi oozes talent. In this interview with TheCable Lifestyle, the talented singer details how she juggles her various professions. She also talks about her motivations and upcoming projects.

The Cable Lifestyle: You studied mechanical engineering but somehow found your way back to music. Would you say it was a part of you you couldn’t ignore?

Nissi: Absolutely. Even while studying mechanical engineering, music was always a significant part of my life. I was actively pursuing my music career alongside my studies. It never stopped for me. Engineering was another passion, but music has always been the heartbeat of everything I do. It’s a part of my identity that I couldn’t and didn’t want to ignore.

TheCable Lifestyle: How would you describe your style of music, and how does that contribute to your creative process when writing?

Nissi: My music is an expression of who I am. It’s a blend of various influences and experiences that shape my life. I don’t box myself into a single genre. Instead, I allow my creativity to flow freely, resulting in a unique sound that’s distinctly me. When writing, I draw from my personal experiences, emotions, and the world around me. This authenticity resonates in my music, making the creative process both therapeutic and exhilarating.

TheCable Lifestyle: In a highly competitive music industry like Nigeria’s, how do you navigate your way to stand out among the rest?

Nissi: The secret sauce is authenticity. I focus on being the best version of myself because there’s nobody else like me. Instead of competing, I concentrate on creating music that speaks to my soul and connects with my audience. It’s about carving out my own space and staying true to my artistic vision.

TheCable Lifestyle: What’s your take on female artistes in the industry, and who are those you would love to work with, male included?

Nissi: Female artistes are incredibly talented and inspiring. I’m looking forward to collaborating with so many of them, including Victoria Monet, H.E.R., Coco Jones, Billie Eilish, Snoh Aalegra, Rihanna, Little Simz, Cleo Sol, Ayra Starr, Teni, Asa, Tems, Gyakie, Amaarae, and more. There are also amazing male artistes I’d love to work with. The industry is brimming with talent, and I’m excited about the possibilities.

TheCable Lifestyle: You were on the team that designed the 2023 Range Rover model. How was the experience of being part of such a project?

Nissi: It was a monumental project that taught me so much about leadership, business, processes, and people. Working on the Range Rover exposed me to various departments and gave me invaluable insights into the automotive industry. This experience has been instrumental in the founding of my own automotive company, Kemet Automotive. It’s been an incredible journey of learning and growth.

TheCable Lifestyle: You’re a singer, visual artist, mechanical and sound engineer and painter. How do you combine all these professions as just one person?

Nissi: Honestly, it’s about dedication and time management. I just get on with it and ensure I give my best in everything I do. Of course, there are sacrifices, but I’m fortunate to have a supportive team that pushes me and helps me build my vision. Balancing these passions requires a lot of effort, but it’s all worth it.

TheCable Lifestyle: You released a short animated movie titled ‘The Satchel.’ Should we expect more from you in terms of animation or even movie production?

Nissi: Absolutely. Creele Animation Studios is gearing up to release our next major film. We’ve developed many exciting projects that we’re eager to share with the world. There’s so much more to come, and we’re looking forward to welcoming partners and investors to build this incredible company with us.

TheCable Lifestyle: What’s next for Nissi? Should we be expecting any projects soon?

Nissi: There’s so much on the horizon. New music, new projects, new art—I’m continuously working on giving the world all that I have to offer from my talents. There’s always something exciting brewing, and I can’t wait to share it with everyone.

I’m working on new singles and collaborations, exhibitions, new animation projects from Creele, movie projects, more announcements from Kemet, and a lot more product designs. The plan is to keep inspiring and making amazing things. There’s so much in store, and I’m excited for the future.