Tom Lash is bringing fresh air into Nigerian music scene

Tom Lash is an up-and-coming hip hop act  who has what it takes to revolutionise  the  Nigerian music scene with his brand of music. His debut single,’Fire Burn’, which is due to hit the market any moment from now, is an unconventional hip hop sound with a strong message. In this interview, Tom Lash whose real name is Tomiwa Lase Kilo talks about his music, his aspirations and plans for the future.

Tell us about your educational background

I studied Petroleum and Gas Engineering  at University of Lagos  and graduated in 2010.

Why did you decide to go into music despite studying Petroleum and Gas Engineering?

I realised I could write and rap, so I decided to follow my dream. My heart  tells me to pursue my dream and I’m chasing that dream.

The turning point was actually at the orientation camp during my NYSC. I was hanging out with a friend one evening and suddenly, I became bored. My friend was writing a song, so I told him I’m also a creative writer and a rapper. I asked if I could join him and he obliged me. Then, I did a short rap and he was amazed at my skills. He gave me some pep talk that became the turning point in my life.

*Tom Lash

But actually, I developed the passion in 2005, when I discovered I could write poems and rap.

My first attempt to make music was with a friend, the producer of the Bonafide Crew, M16 (Omasan). He produced a song for me then, but the song did not hit the market because it was not well packaged.  I went through a lot of people, learning the rudiments of music  before I eventually had my breakthrough. The likes of M16, Mark X and Ehimen all  contributed to what I am today.

At what stage did you realise you would be doing music professionally?

The thought actually came up in January, 2013. I wasn’t happy with the the kind of job I was doing then. I knew I have this unflinching passion and desire for entertainment. So, I decided I was going into showbiz fully and professionally in January, this year.

Do you intend to go into music fully?

Yes, I intend to do music full time . Already, I have started  since the beginning of the year. ‘Fire Burn’ is my first official single but there are other great songs I’m yet to release .

Who’s your  producer?

I have worked with several producers and I am still meeting new producers. However, DESiimurl (@RUNDATRAX) produced ‘Fire Burn’

Have you done collabos  with any artiste yet?

I have done one collaborative effort with a gospel rapper,  GW. We worked together on a track titled ‘The way.’

Do you think you have what it takes to survive in the Nigerian music industry?

One  thing I know is that I’m bringing a breath of fresh air into the Nigerian music scene. I have my hip hop ( core rap ) and commercial rap skills which I feel would stand me out ’ in the industry.  Yes, I believe I have what it takes not to get trampled upon in the Nigerian music industry.

What’s your take on the Nigerian music industry?

I think the industry has grown tremendously in the last two decades. Back in those days, we couldn’t boast of international collaborations between our own contemporary artistes and their international counterparts. We started from the bottom. But look at where we are today. We are the largest music industry in Africa and certainly, the most exportable. Our development has been nothing short of exponential.

The industry is doing exceedingly well and that’s an extra motivation for me to delve into the entertainment sector.

What’s the next level for you?

My next move is to drop another single in a couple of weeks. I intend to storm  the market with the single.

What kind of music do you play?

I do hip hop/rap. I’m not a singer even though I have the talent. I’m crazy in love with melody.

What inspires your music?

Most times, my brain inspires my music. I think about what to write and then translate it into music. However, I sometimes get inspired by things around me and other human experiences.

Tell us about the shows and tours you‘ve had so far

None yet. They are in the pipeline.

Have you launched you album?

I hope to launch it next year.

Who is your biggest influence locally?

Honestly, I wouldn’t exactly call them influences; rather they are just people I admire and have a lot of respect for. Internationally, the first artiste I respect is the late Tupac Amaru Shakur. Others include, the late Notorious B.I.G, Jay – Z, Snoop Dogg, DMX, Ja Rule, Diddy, Lil wayne, Fabulous, Drake…the list is endless.

Locally, I’m in awe of the lyrical dexterity of Mode 9.  I also doff my hat for Mr. Incredible (M.I), Jesse Jags, the musicality of Ice Prince, Sauce kid, Naeto C and Eldee.

What is your experience like going through the process of recording?

It’s usually fun for me. It’s never a dull moment especially because I learn new things most times. I totally enjoy recording. It’s an amazing experience.

What additional skills do you possess that would give you an edge over other rappers?

Apart from  being a good rapper, I consider myself an exceptionally creative writer. I’m a great poet and in a nutshell, ‘lyricist extraordinaire.So, you can expect a lot of exemplary and enviable lyrics from me coupled with intriguing flows and deliveries.

Any messages for the up and coming acts like you?

Oh yes! Please, you guys have to stay true to your dream and hustle. Never let the ‘bad belle’ people discourage you. But most importantly, be sure the talent is actually there. Do not come into the game for the wrong reasons. The money and the fame is quite alluring but trust me,  a one – hit wonder would never stand the test of time. Let your talent guide you and let your passion drive you and you shall come out tops.

What do you have to say about the menace of piracy?

Seriously, I think it’s really disheartening that some selfish individuals would choose to reap where they did not sow (at the expense of the hard-working artists). Our counterparts in Europe and America are racking in mega bucks because the pirates are all out at sea not stealing artistic work. However, I must commend the Copyright Society of Nigeria, COSON in respect of the laudable effort it is making   to curb the excesses of these pirates.