Gospel Artiste, Bukky November ‘Adebukonla Kukoyi’ is one of the fastest growing gospel artistes in the industry at the moment with a unique sound and versatility in stage coordination. Despite her 9-5 job, November derives pleasure in making not just good gospel music alone but also one that cuts across. In this chat MUTIAT LAWORE, November disclosed how it all started, her evaluation of the gospel industry and possible, among others.
How did it all start?
I remember being in the choir and singing in front of a large congregation way back when I was 10. Like many singers would tell, I have always being in the choir; from my days in RCCG to date. I can’t remember a time I wasn’t in the choir and I loved every bit of it.
Then at some point, I joined music bands and honestly tried keeping it churchy. But as far as singing my own songs and recording professionally, I would say my new single – Don’t Pass Me By – is my first official attempt.
What was the motivation behind becoming a musician?
Love! It just had to be love and passion for the art. Also, I was a very shy kid, growing up and maybe, I am still a bit shy till date. Singing is the one thing I don’t ever think or second guess. It’s as easy as breathing for me and it’s one of the things I find most fulfilling.
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I tell my friends that at age 70, I’ll still want to sing and play the saxophone. If there is one thing I want to known for , it’s being a musician. I don’t mean to sound all ‘Christiany’ but music feels like what I am destined for and I am done running away from it.
Why gospel music?
There was the church influence right from a very young age. Also, I was born into a Christian family and my parents encouraged me to sing in thought, especially at a time when they thought it helped me stay in line. I remember my mom bought me a Walkman back then with ‘Cece Winans’ and ‘Women of Faith’ CDs and I felt like I was on top of the world. Gospel music comes natural to me.
I tried what we call ‘Good Music’; the borderline between gospel and secular music but honestly, it didn’t feel real to me and I was very unhappy. I didn’t even release any of the 2 songs I wrote.
For years, I actually struggled with settling for gospel music because I love neo-soul and I assumed the typical Nigeria audience wouldn’t accept such songs so who would I be ministering to but honestly, there is room for every gift God has given and gradually, I am discovering that there is a place for mine also.
Gospel artists don’t get same accolade as circular musicians; are you not under pressure to switch sound?
So first off, gospel music, even from Nigeria is becoming a movement of its own and I have faith in the movement. As for the pressure to switch, not anymore. I couldn’t even if I tried. It just doesn’t come natural.
Also, I am fine knowing that at least one person listened to my song and felt God. It could get very challenging doing gospel but fame, money and influence cannot be the reason why I honestly do music or why anyone should decide to go into music whether gospel or secular. So what if these don’t come, then what? I want to touch lives.
I want the typical young man or woman out there to look at me and say ‘If God could make something of ‘November’, and then He can use me also. That for me is fulfilling enough. In fact that is success.
You play the saxophone, a feat for a lady; how easy or tough is it for you?
It is as tough as it would be for anyone juggling a music career and still having to do a demanding job 8- 5pm, at least, six days a week. I am not an exception. I struggle with making time to rehearse like anyone else in my shoes would but again, playing in church helps.
Also, being passionate about the instrument, listening to other saxophonists even that even when I don’t have the instrument in my hands, I have it in my ears and knowing that this could be my future also helps. I just have to make it happen somehow; sleep late if I have to, deprive myself of some ‘me’ time if I have to. It will get easier though, at least, that’s what I tell myself.
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What are you currently working on?
2020! More music, maybe, an EP but certainly not an album, not yet. Maybe, some collaboration within and outside Nigeria and the good part is I have learnt to make plans without necessarily thinking ‘where will I find the money?’
Like most other artistes, I know the struggle. But I also know that if I want it and it is God’s plan for me, He will make it happen. So, hey, I dare to dream and dream big. So big, it scares me.
Why the name Bukky November?
HAHAHA! Drum roll, please! I am about to reveal the million-dollar mystery! Ok, news flash, there is no mystery at all. My birth name is Adebukonla Kukoyi and Adebukonla can be shortened to Bukonla or Bukky. As for November, I was born on the 28th of November.
So, there you have it – Bukky November. My friends and cousins call me November so it just stuck. I don’t know if anyone else officially bears the name but if not, then I hope I just started a trend (Big smile).
What’s your take on the gospel music industry generally?
Honestly, I am very impressed and encouraged by the growth so far. The sound of gospel music isn’t necessarily competing with secular one but many singers take out time and resources to ensure these songs are well written and well produced, even to international standards.
It can also get quite discouraging sometimes, especially when it comes to promoting your content but truth is even non-gospel musicians struggle with this factor also. My take on this is that you hang in there. Do what you love and what you believe in, stay planted in a good church that helps you become the best version of you, pray about these challenges and in due time, it will all work out. I believe it will.
Any plans for collaboration and with whom?
Oh sure! I do have plans to collaborate. I hope he reads this. I love Jonathan Mcreynolds – his voice, the way he writes. I definitely want to collaborate with him on an album in the near future. There is also ‘Called Out Music’ and yes, Travis Greene. Call me a dreamer but hey, what are we without dreams?