BOX OFFICE: YOUNG, AMBITIOUS AND BOLD. THE NEW LEADERS SHAPING AFRICA.

Ewa Cole  has it: effortless confidence and flow, style in abundance. Ewa Olatunji grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, as an introvert, but since finding her voice, she’s taken her singular blend of R&B and Afrobeats and made them global. One Single into her career, Ewa Cole after getting the world's attention to her music in 2024, through her Guiness World Records Achievement, gradually, but somehow remains remarkably unphased, as if success was never in doubt. Months after this feat, Ewa Cole connected with our founder Pelumi J. Adeboye to discuss staying true to yourself, even when it feels impossible.

EWA COLE: How are you doing?

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: I'm good. How you been? 

EWA COLE: I've been cool. 

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: You've been working?

EWA COLE: Mm-hmm. Not really. Been locked here in Lagos all day

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: You are a Guiness World Records Holder, that's an amazing feat I must say.

EWA COLE: I appreciate so much. 

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: Absolutely, the pleasure is mine! So we love your Music: Let's Discuss. You are a member of 2024 PM AFRICA 20 MOST POWERFUL WOMEN The last creative that walked into this room to share her story, was Nigerian Multi-Media Personality & Silverbird's TV presenter, Victory Wilson. So tell me, how elated are you doing this and what was Childhood background like for you?

EWA COLE: I am excited doing this interview and thanks for recognizing all the hardwork, I appreciate you alot. 

My background as a child was filled with music, my dad sings for devotion, my brothers were music gurus especially the first born, the eldest was always playing music so, my childhood was fun, was filled with happiness, alot of memories. My background really helped into who I am today and thank God for the journey.

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: What were the happiest memories from your teenage years?

EWA COLE: My happiest memories from my teanage years were during carol times, when my teachers would teach us songs, drama and dance for our end of the year carol services, I miss those days sometimes.

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: How would you describe the relationship with your parents like?

EWA COLE: I have an amazing relationship with my parents and I wouldn’t trade them for anything in this world.

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: So what would you say were the core values passed unto you by them?

EWA COLE: Some of the core values passed on by them are Honesty, Kindness, Creativity, Humility and Simplicity, Ambitiousness, I could go on all day.

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: Asides your parents, whom would you claim played a crucial role into what you have become today?

EWA COLE: Well, my dad likes to sing a lot especially during morning devotions, my mom is more of an ambitious and creative woman, my brother introduced me to the likes of Celin dion, ASA, Tuface, Kesha cole and the rest. I have three elder brothers and they have played major roles and have been strong backbones in my life . I took a part of everyone so I would say that my family at large has played a huge role in who I am today.

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: We can't entirely talk about your breakthrough in the crowded music industry without briefly dwelling on your educational background; What did you study in school and as a rising artiste, navigating through the space, what Is your candid advice to those finding it difficult balancing work and Education?

EWA COLE: I studied Computer - Science in Babcock University, music has always been my passion even before I was admitted into my first year. I would say that once you find what you love to do, it won't be a burden to you. It would be as though it’s a part of your life.

How I balanced work (music) and education was that I didn't see it as a job at that time cos it was something I loved to do, so I always made arrangements to do my music at my leasure time because I had it mind that focusing on my education was for a while which was for my betterment and my music is forever.

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: On your most recent, Historical feat. Tell me about it.

EWA COLE: I took on this record-breaking challenge because it's a rare chance to leave a positive impact on history. It's fulfilling to inspire young people and give them the confidence to break through barriers. Singing is my passion, and this attempt allows me to spread my wings and reach new heights. It's a platform to showcase my love for music and empower others to pursue their dreams.

How did I prepare for the record attempt?

Since childhood, I've been preparing for this moment. I was often put on stage to lead and perform at my school's Christmas carols.

Thanks to memorizing songs, I could easily rehearse with the choir on short notice. The planning committee allocated a significant budget, but it was the unwavering support from special people, including family members who believed in me from the start, that made it possible. Their emotional and financial backing, combined with minimal preparation and fervent prayers, enabled us to successfully host this incredible event. I applied for the record and I was granted the permission to go on with it.

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: Why did you choose Christmas songs during this attempt? 

EWA COLE: Of all songs I chose the christmas carol because I have been groomed for it all my life, I saw the chance and I took it.

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: What are the strategies already in place to keep you relevant in our competitive music industry?

EWA COLE: To be honest I am doing what I love most in the world being a singer and a song writer, I have no strategies in place , atleast not for now.

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: Into your music career so far, which moment would you describe challenging?

EWA COLE: Hmm I would say I've had so many challenging moments I can't even begin to point out lol.

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: Which Nigerian artists would you love to work with sooner or later?

EWA COLE: I would love to work with Beyonce, Rihanna, Wizkid, Burna Boy, Asa. I have a very long list and it could go on and on lol

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: Label owners reposting up and coming artists music covers and freestyles  on their pages; Do you think it's the best for them or merely introducing them early enough to the Industry hazards, which could make them fade out, after not becoming masters of their crafts? 

EWA COLE: I would say posting them to the world is the best because they are already exposed to the world and helping them promote their craft will do a greater good.

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: What other accomplishments of yours would you like to pursue in future and what advice would you give young females out there modelling their lives after you?

EWA COLE: I would love my Tech and Fashion company Rewa group to be one of the best in the world. 

My advice to the young ones out there is “ Don’t stop and keep pushing even if all seems to go wrong. Life is a journey, make sure you enjoy every bit of the ride”.

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: Hahahahahahaha. That is brilliant and we are all here to witness all of it! Ewa! That's all for now. I've got full download of this interview, everything I needed to know when I told my team, we needed to cook something with you.

EWA COLE: Awwwwn, thank you so much for this lovely Interview. I definitely had a swell time and yeah if I were to be in the same city again, I'll definitely want to link up and vibe.

PELUMI J. ADEBOYE: Most definitely.