Ibukun Ajagbe, aka Ibquake, a spoken words poet, tells FAITH AJAYI about her career
What educational qualifications do you possess?
I am currently final year od the University of Lagos, studying Mass Communication.
At what point did you discover spoken word poetry?
It was in 2013/2014. I attend House on the Rock church, and around that time, I was about 13/14 years old, and I decided to attend a spoken word class. After attending for 12 weeks, the instructor told me I showed the greatest amount of seriousness during the training, and would like me to take it a step further. She informed me about a competition I could register for, and that was how I started.
What is your creative process like?
My creative process is interesting. I understand how boring people can be, so I always try my best to think outside the box. I try to use creative expressions that people can relate to. I think creativity happens everywhere for me. I can be anywhere and hear a word I find interesting. I would then write it down, and when I am in my quiet space, I would come up with a nice piece.
I also discipline myself. I believe that a lot of creatives need to discipline themselves, because one wouldn’t always be inspired to write. But, with discipline, one can draw from what is already within. A student who is doing badly in school has no option but to pass, to be able to move to the next level, even if it means having to get a lesson teacher and study harder.
How do you choose the themes for your performances?
It depends on what the theme of the event is. But, if it is for social media, I like to speak to the identity of people. I think of what people can become, and the potential they have. I draw from my own identity as well, and hope that it inspires people.
I also speak on topical issues, such as love and rape. I am of the opinion that a creative is an endless being filled with inspiration. That is why I can talk about anything.
Are there specific poets or artists who have influenced your style?
At the core of my being is God, and I think I have a peculiar voice as well. One of my strengths is my voice, and I use it to my advantage. I don’t even have to speak on something weighty, but the way it is communicated through my voice makes people listen. Also, whenever I perform, I gesticulate. It is not something I practice; it just happens, and I feel it is an expression of God’s core that is already on my inside.
How do you handle stage fright before a performance?
The way I spoke five years ago is different from the way I speak now. One of the advantages of spoken words is that it builds one’s confidence. Over time, I built my confidence through spoken words. But, that doesn’t mean I don’t feel stage fright at times. Most times, before I get on stage, I am quiet, trying to analyse in my head.
Which of your pieces brought you to the limelight?
I wouldn’t say there is a particular piece that did that. I have just enjoyed the grace of God. However, what you will notice in my life is growth from the De9jaSpirit Talent Hunt. Opportunity just creates room for more. Now, I can enter a room, and people would chorus my piece. I give all the credit to God.
What were the challenges you faced when you started?
It was hard, because spoken word is not mainstream like music or movies. Also, many Nigerians have a short attention span. They don’t want to hear what one has to say, so it was hard. It started with disregard, because people did not understand what I was doing.
I thank God that the journey has led to this moment, where not only me but my craft is respected. When I speak, people listen and give me the respect I deserve.
Can you describe a memorable moment in your spoken word journey?
That would be sometime in 2022. I went to a Guinness event, because I am usually invited to their corporate event. After performing, the then Managing Director, Mr Maguda, said he was going to give me one year supply of their products. And after some weeks, they wanted to sign me as their ambassador (one-year deal). That was amazing, and I had a great working experience with them.
Also, having to minister at ‘The Experience’ was good.
How has social media impacted your approach to sharing your work?
Technology has helped me to reach a large number of people, and it makes me not just a spoken word artist but a content creator, because I have to think of times and seasons. I have communities of people on all my social media platforms, and that helps my work to reach places I did not even know.
I am not a controversial person, but sometimes, I get bashed, and I use it for good.
What opportunities has your craft brought your way?
Spoken word poetry has really opened doors for me. I have performed before former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Some people also call me Lagos State Governor Sanwo-Olu’s baby. I remember the first time I performed in front of him at an event in 2021. Since then, I have performed at several events, where is he present. I have also worked for many people I looked up to while growing up.
How do you think spoken word poetry can gain more prominence?
I have learnt that one should not wait for people to validate one. Imagine that I was waiting about five years ago for people to validate me; I won’t be where I am today. I think spoken word poets should do the necessary work that needs to be done in terms of their craft, even with the use of technology. If one puts enough time and energy into one’s art, one will excel.
Spoken word poets need to put in the work that needs to be done, and follow the process. I believe a time will come when spoken word poets will be known. It might not be mainstream, but people will identify it on its own, and not mix it with different forms of creativity.
What advice do you have for aspiring spoken word artists looking to find their voices?
It is easy for spoken word artists to want to sound like the next spoken word artist. Everyone has their strength and weaknesses, so they should identify their strengths, and work on their weaknesses.
You should be your own person, so that people can easily identify you. Own your craft and work on being your most authentic self.
In what way has family supported your craft?
I thank God for the kind of mother I have. She never stopped me or discouraged me from doing spoken words. She even often went with me to perform. It was only recently I told her that I am old enough to go on my own. My brother, dad and friends have supported me as well.
Credit Gist New Today News in Newspaper Nigeria Headlines