Dayo Dane Ephraim is a popular TV face in Nigeria when he was plying his trade as an On Air Personality and a VJ with HipTV. Dayo relocated to the US to pursue his dreams, rediscover himself and maximize his potential in the showbiz industry. In this exclusive interview with ACADA Magazine, the handsome and humble guy open up on life in the US, how he got to be on stage with pop diva, Jennifer Lopez, his blossoming music career among other topical issues. Enjoy!
You were having a flourishing career as an On Air Personality with HipTV and suddenly disappeared only to resurface in the US. What informed your decision to quit your promising career here in Nigeria?
I think at some point in life we pause to reevaluate and listen to that voice within. I am grateful for the blessings and a great career on TV while in Nigeria. But deep inside I knew I needed something new. Initially, I was not certain on what exactly it was, but in time I realized a complete change of environment was what I needed.
So how has it been since you relocated?
Probably one of the best decisions I made. I have settled in NYC very nicely and things have been great. It is a totally different world from what I knew in Nigeria, but indeed a beautiful journey so far. Of course, every journey has its ups and downs, but the resilience within has brought me this far and I am excited for all that the future holds.
So where do you work now?
I just started working with Ferrari.
Why did you decide to go back to school on your arrival in the US?
I believe we never stop learning whether it is in or out of a classroom. Getting a degree is something I always wanted. As much as I am not a huge fan of school (LOL), I know it makes a difference one way or the other. Plus, I did not want to be the only one in my family who never got a college degree.
You just released a single, why the transition from being an OAP to a musician?
I have always been a musician. People just know what they know based on me being an entertainment reporter on TV. I remember when I did a cover of Hero by Enrique Iglesias and it went viral at the time, people were shocked that I could sing. I do not consider it a transition; I am an artist and an On Air Personality among other things.
My new single Baby which is available on all streaming platforms is my latest work that I want everyone to enjoy. Also, the remix of Baby is out this week and I hope everyone likes and dances to the electrifying beats.
Your latest single, “Baby”, how has the acceptance been?
The response has been wonderful! I have been reached out to from various blogs, music entities who like it and want to work with me. Overall, I am so happy that people really like it. This song was intended to evoke a good, good feeling.
Are you having a video for the song?
Yes! I am currently in talks with three videographers and my team should be making a final decision on who to work with by the end of this week.
Who are the artistes you are looking forward to collaborating with?
At this very moment I would like to make music with John Splithoff, Asa, Dua Lipa, and Sam Smith.
So are you leaving TV presentation for music, or what is your game plan?
No, not at all. If you follow my YouTube channel, you will see that the Dayodane Show is still on. There are few projects in the works which in time will be revealed. Stay tuned!
So do you think you can break into the tough and highly competitive US music scene?
Absolutely! Believing in yourself is key. It may not happen instantly, but consistency, hard work and prayer will get me extremely far in this music industry. I can already see it happening.
Can you share with us your educational background?
I attended Kings College Lagos. I have a degree in Travel, Tourism and Hospitality Management.
The story of your sharing the stage with the legendary diva, J-Lo (Jennifer Lopez) during her performance in Las Vegas made a huge buzz across various social media platforms in 2018. How did this happen?
Till this very moment it still feels very surreal. I have been a huge fan of Jennifer Lopez for a long time. During her residency in Las Vegas, she asked her fans to record a video stating why they would like to come see her on stage in Vegas. Of course, I recorded my version of the video and got selected to come see her. All expenses paid.
It was such a warm feeling meeting her and singing with her on stage. After the show I met with her backstage and we talked about a lot of things. We are friends, we have our numbers, and we exchange messages from time to time.
Though you’re into a career where you have to meet with people, but you seem like a shy person? Is Dayo the shy type?
Absolutely not. I am very quick to talk to people especially when I am filming. But I do have a small circle of people in my personal life and I like it that way.
Tell us, who is Dayo Dane Ephraim?
Dayo Dane Ephraim is a dynamic soul, who is using his gifts to make a positive impact on the world one day at a time. He is also a loving son, brother, a friend, and a devoted Christian.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by life and all the beautiful things that come with it. Specifically, all the success stories I have heard and been a part of.
What type of fashion are you cool with?
I like fashion that looks great on me. I believe fashion can be interpreted in your own way and that is where your style really shines. I do have certain pieces of fashion that I like and pop on me. Others, I just leave alone.
Are you into labels, if yes, who are your favorite designers?
I am not into labels. If it looks great on me, I am buying.
Your favourite perfume(s).
I have a few brands that I like. Hard to pick a favorite.
Your favourite fashion accessories.
I like rings and neck pieces, and good shoes.
What is currently the most expensive item in your wardrobe?
I’d rather not say. Lol!
Your favourite food.
Fried plantain, eggs and pork sausage.
Been a handsome dude and a celebrity, how do you handle the female fans?
I just treat everyone with respect.
What next should we be expecting from you?
I have projects in the works which will be revealed soon. I do not talk about what is coming and so on, I’d rather not jinx it. But in time you will see.
Advice for young people out there.
Be your authentic self. Give yourself permission to dream big. You can do anything if you believe in yourself; stay passionate, hardworking, and prayerful. Have fun and do not take everything too seriously.
Last word for your fans.
Sending you all lots of love and I cannot wait to see all the greatness that lies ahead in our journey.
