In the vibrant tapestry of Nigeria’s music industry, there are some rising music stars that emerge as distinctive voices, weaving narratives that resonate with quality sounds.
One of these rising stars is Cee Shine, a name that is gradually gaining his way into the heart of music lovers in Nigerian. Born Benedith Somkelechi Mbafotu from Oru West Local Government in Imo State, is an all round entertainer whose artistry and inspiration cannot be overlooked.
The good looking, energetic performer, song writer and singer take Zebra News into his unique musical journey, entrepreneur skills and personal life among others.
Why do you choose music amongst other things? (Grins)
It was a talent discovered from my tender age. At 12years I joined a choir group in my homestead, thereby becoming one of their lead vocalists then; thereafter I relent not in building my aspiration of becoming an artiste.
Aside music, what else do you do?
I have work relentlessly in the past to raise money, in order to build myself and my music career. I have done some odd jobs in factories just to survive. I’d even hacked fairly used clothes known as Okirika in past just to surpass hunger and poverty. The tenacity and spirit of getting it right in me compelled me to save more and spend less so as to set small business for myself. It wasn’t easy but in all, I thank Almighty God for His mercy that today via my concerted effort I now have a water factory that produces Cee Shine purified Table water, a loan company and a cloth line. I am an entrepreneur presently, using the little I make to push my music. And whatever I get from shows I plough it back into to my business. It has been Almighty God all the way. I am grateful for His grace over me.
How many songs do you have? (Thinking…)
So far, I have over 15 songs to my credit. I believe in consistency that’s why I never give up in the industry. Whatever I make as gain, I do use it to record new song, and the act has been helping me a lot.
Do you have any latest project, what is the title?
Yes. There a new song that I featured Cameo Huzla a rapper. The title of the song is ARMAGEDDON. It’s going to be the song of the year. We have shot the video too and it will be aired in some major stations soonest. We tagged single hit the song of the year. Go listen to it and tell us how you rated it.
If you’re to change anything about yourself, what would that be and why?
Wow! I really like the person in me. There is no second me. I am real and optimistic that the industry will favor me in no time. I am myself and I Cee Shine, so I seek no changing of anything about me for now.
Are you in a relationship?
Kind of which I preferred to keep it low for now (laughs)
How do you handle female fans?
I really appreciate them for always showcasing that love and affection towards my music. I do cherish all bestowed on me, and I promise to do my best to be recognized as expected globally. We do understand each very well without offending any one of them.
Who are the Nigerian artists you have worked with?
I have done some songs with relatively upcoming artistes. The songs that did are well crafted, but you know the industry is tedious to breakthrough, thereby making some of the songs unheard and not reckoned till date. The cost of promoting songs is too expensive. It has affected so many good artistes.
Who are the Nigerian artists you wish to worked with and why?
It will be a great privilege for me to work with someone like, Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Phyno, Olamide and Tiwa Salvage. I really can’t wait as the duet will be something else. I seek them with double hands help to reposition the industry the more.
What’s your take on WizKid Vs Davido’s rivalry?
The debacle and rivalry is very unnecessary to me. They are brothers, and many are looking up to them as role model. To be candid, did you know that they’ll make more significant impacts doing things together than quarreling? The sky is wide enough to accommodate anybody. They say when two brothers fight strangers will take away what belongs to them. They should try and resolve matter therein. They are made and doing extremely well in the field of entertainment. Let there be Peace!
Who do you think is a better artist between, Davido, WizKid and Burna Boy?
Hmmm. This is a very difficult question because they are unique in their different ways. I can tell you that they are sole champion in their art. Whenever anyone of them drops song, it automatically top the chart for some periods, that simply defined them as exceptional, outstanding and versatile artistes. They are really living legends of our time musically.
Who are you female celebrity crush and why?
In the music industry, I keep fantasizing on Tiwa Salvage. I don’t really understand that strong chemistry. It’s infectious and I just can’t help it. I have all her songs in my smart phones. She has beauty and brain with renowned voice that makes statement in any line of song she features in the industry. She really got me seeking and thinking of her always. And in the Nollywood industry Regina Daniels is irresistible. She is married and that alone jettisoned all for now though. In the foreign Scene, Rihanna is another lady that I do have crush on, hoping that someday, I will have the ample chance to work with her too.
Do you have an EP?
Yeah. I do with length songs contained in my Album that was launched last Year.
Do you have an Album?
The title of my Album then was SHINE O,’Clock. Launched sometime in November, 2023.
When do you plan to drop another Album?
I am working assiduously on that project now, with the hope of churning out songs that will be laced with remarkable beats. I am going to work with frontline producers in the country. The industry will surely hear us because it’s our time.
What’s your take about the current economy is it affecting you in any way?
The economic situation affects all, thereby slowing down so many activities that are lined up before us. We only hope that it gets better sooner than expected.
Why the name Cee Shine?
It’s a kind of appellation depicting SEE STAR, SEE SHINE. I chose the name that’ll stand me out with ease. I am in the industry to shine like the Star in the sky.
Who are your mentor in the music industry?
They are so many namely Late Sunny Okosun, 2face, Don Jazz, Burna Boy, Flavour, Osadebe, etc
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