Meet Tonye Garrick; Singer And Songwriter

                                    

Tonye Garrick is a fast rising international singer and songwriter.In this interview, she expressed the true music spirit in her

Background

I was born in England and spent a good portion of my childhood in Paris, France. My father was a diplomat in Europe and my family lived there until I was about 12 years. We returned to Nigeria when my father’s European posting ended. Upon return to Nigeria, I attended Vivian Fowler and Queen’s College, Lagos. Then, many of my classmates fondly referred to me as their “corridor nightingale.” It was pretty endearing. Later, my family moved to the United States, and my personal aspirations led me to Marymount University in Virginia, where I obtained a Bachelor of International Business & Fashion Merchandising. Upon graduation, I did a stint in corporate America and worked at two major firms: UBS Financial and Deloitte. I ultimately took a leap of faith over the last few years to really explore and purse my love for music. I was based in Washington DC but moved back to Nigeria earlier this year.

Music

As a child, I always had a huge love for arts and music. I participated in a few dance and theatrical performances in Europe before moving back to Nigeria with my family. Music was always my first love. I watched different legendary musicians’ stage performances (particularly Janet Jackson and Whitney Houston) for hours on end. I just marvelled at the way they shared their music and connected with people. I sing R&B/pop. I have performed at several shows since I returned. It’s been an amazing journey and I really look forward to more ahead.

Music industry

It is evolving. It’s amazing how artistes like D’banj and Tuface have carved a place for newcomers like me. There is a lot of room for a new talent to storm the industry. Collaboration? I believe in artistes’ collaboration. Definitely, plans are on concerning this in the near future. For now, my team and I are focusing on putting out quality music that people can truly enjoy.

Fondest memory

I remember when I was flirting with music; I was in the elementary class. During a school play rehearsal in our French class, the lead was singing her part and I remember laughing with my classmates. The teacher called me to the front and said, ‘Hey, since you think this is so funny and so easy, let’s hear you do it.’ Nervous and excited at the same time, I stepped out but was terrified of people making fun of me. I didn’t know how to sing. After the silence, I started singing and did the entire song till the end. When I was done, I expected a room full of laughter but was instead, met with a perplexed glare and I was about to start crying. I actually thought their silence meant I sounded bad. Alas! It turned to a huge applause. My teacher said: ‘Wow, Tonye! You sound amazing! You would be our new lead singer from now on.’ From that point on, I sang at all school performances and became more comfortable singing in my church as well.

Motivation

My family have always encouraged me to do what I love. I was told never to be afraid of making moves. Until you make certain moves, you might never truly know what you are destined to do on earth.

Fashion

I like to be comfortable. I think my style is very transitional. I love experimenting with different elements of fashion and trying new things. I really like Jennifer Lopez’s style. Her style is very chic and most importantly, she knows her body well. She dresses herself with what flatters her body the most. I think that is important because it makes her style appear effortless. I understand my body and dress accordingly.

Fashion fetish

I live in denim shorts, rompers and t-shirts. I love them and have so many because they are super comfortable and can be dressed up or down with heels or pumps anytime.

Beauty routine

I get lots of rest and drink tons of water to keep my skin clear. I work out four to five times a week to reduce my stress level. I used to be a body combat instructor. I try to stay fit.

Dreams

To become a successful musical artiste globally.I will be releasing my two new singles by the end of this month and I am really excited about this.

OMG