I dare say that this interview you are about to read is the very first one I’ve done that I did not have to add or take out a word.
The plan was to profile this amazing personality, but after going tthrough it, I realised that so much will be missing if I do as much as even try to add or take out a word.
This interview truly, has blessed me and even made me to see life in a whole new perspective. One thing I can assure you is this, no matter which part of the divide you presently are, I implore you, PLEASE take time to carefully read this one…You’ll be glad you did…
Ladies & Gentlemen, I present CHARLES GRANVILLE…
Despite his very demanding job with one of the biggest multi national oil companies in Nigeria, he still makes out time to write and release hit songs of inspiration, praise and worship to God to the admiration of his fans.
lets meet you[family, education, social]...
I was born and raised by a single parent. My mum tried her best to make sure I had the best and lacked nothing. Even though as a child I always felt unloved. I mean, my dad abandoned me b4 I was born and I envied those who had a complete family. At some point I was even suicidal because, all around me I saw love but I didn't feel it. I can't even explain how bad it was in those days. No one believed in me. I didn't even believe in myself! I got discovered by the proprietor of my secondary school. Pastor Belemina Obunge noticed I was disciplined and sincere when I returned a huge some of money I found on the floor in my class. I wasn't born again, I didn't even go to church but I knew right from wrong and chose right (most times). So the Pastor could not just understand why I refused to find God. He tried his best to convince me but I always convinced him I'm almost a saint.
Even holier than him or the pope... Lol! That same period, a fellow student boasted to classmates that we were sexually involved and the whole school heard it in minutes since all were waiting for me to commit. I was not guilty but... You won't wanna believe that will u? Just as I was about to act in rage, the Pastor called me to his office. I was expecting a suspension or something! He wanted to try again then he showed me from the Bible that all my self righteousness was like a filthy rag b4 God. He told me that even anger was a sin and I couldn't be so perfect as not to get angry... Ok stop! How did he know I was angry? To cut it short, that was when he won me. I gave my life to Christ and let go of the anger. My first challenge was in not reacting to the rumour which of course made it seem true. Anyways, I'm glad I accepted God because in Him I found the father I never had. He gave me hope and a future. My life changed for the better and now I'm able to help people feel the love of God. Helping children and teenagers without hope. Using my story to encourage them and also support them.
I'm not much of a social person but I try. I could be very busy so when I find free time, I like to enjoy my rent by actually staying at home... Lol! So to all my friends who don't like this side of me please forgive me. I'll try to improve though...
when and how did you get into the music business?
While the school proprietor was leading me to Christ on November 11, 1997, he sang a song and I joined in. It was at that moment he noticed I had a gift. That same day, he took me to perform in a concert. That was the beginning. Its been a long journey but I'm glad I took that road. I have trained many choirs, been involved in and judged many competitions. I have produced a few artists. I'm glad I've been able to mentor thousands as well.
Let me ask this. What do you think is wrong with Nigerian gospel music?
Nothing! We produce the best pedigree of musicians. Most of the secular musicians started from the church and it gave them the opportunity to practice and get better but the Church doesn't pay you and will demand for your best. We have a lot of talents in the church. The kind that will give beyonce a run for the money but... No one to support them. No record label wants to sign them. No promoter wants to promote them. No company wants to sponsor them, no brand wants to endorse them and the church who they should turn to don't see why they should invest in talents when "souls are perishing". Please take care of the souls you already have. Let us treat the mole in our eyes before we go out to clean the ones outside. I'll also appeal to the marketers, promoters, companies, record labels, etc. Please support us. To the church, we are your own so support us please. Let's stop chasing all our fine talents away and embrace them.
“Charles Granville in concert” is a huge success and featuring great Gospel acts like Samsong, Kefee, Infinity, etc and is attended by thousands across the country. AT WHAT POINT DID IT COME TO YOU...AND YOU WERE LIKE: AH HA! THIS IS IT...A concert is what i want to do...
Well, we lack well packaged events where gospel acts can be celebrated. That's why I love and respect the Pastor and Leadership of House On The Rock church for their initiative in putting together the biggest music concert THE EXPERIENCE. I wanted to create a platform where artists can come and express themselves and because I don't do many performances, it'll be an opportunity for my fans and friends to experience God's praise as it should be.
Do you get paid for performing in church events?
Sometimes! I'm blessed to be one of the highest paid but its not about the money because God gave me a good job and I can cater for myself. My honorarium goes to help orphans, young talents, etc. So the more performances I do, the more people I'm able to help. The more I'm paid, the more they gain. Then again, my performances are ministrations and all who have been in an event where I performed can tell you better how God touched them.
Do you sing people's praises, especially at parties?
Naaah! I sing my songs at events. Weddings are a peculiar case. Depending on what they want but basically, in that case, I'll praise God for what He did for them (mentioning their names).
OBOMA KREATIONS LTD...tell us about it...
With the success of my events, people keep coming to me to ask if I can help them package their events or manage it. Some need ideas or concepts to help them sell their goods or packages and we brainstorm and come up with a plan or concept. Things like that...
Shabach Foundation an NGO which is deeply involved in youth development, talent identification, coaching and mentoring, youth counselling, is one of your initiatives...give us an overview..
Well, I told u earlier that no one believed in me and even I didn't believe in myself! My desire is to help talented people get the help they need by providing a platform where they can express their talents no matter what it is and learn how to make money out of it. I am from the Niger Delta[Nigeria] and I know how our youth feel. I am doing my tiny little bit towards youth development as much as my little income can accommodate and as God provides. That's what we do in Shabach foundation and we have been able to produce some good talents in the Niger Delta. Some have even travelled out of Nigeria and are making an impact where they are. All to God's glory!
FEED A CHILD PROJECT is another of your well thought out initiatives...how is that also going?
Those who love what I do and want to be part of it can. However, the simplest and easiest to do, is the FEED A CHILD PROJECT. Members of the Charles Granville Appreciation Society (CGAS) embark on it once in a while when we visit the orphanages and give food supply.
The kids are usually happy and feel loved.
you also work with a multi oil conglomerate...how have you been able to cope with that and all the other tasking projects you are involved with?
Luckily, I have a very good work cycle. I work for 14 days and have 14days free. I guess God arranged it that way so I can do His work. Anyhow, time is never enough but I do my best!
So who is the woman in your life now?
Any woman who can cope with my schedules deserves a medal! Lol... I'm single now tho but I'm trusting God for my wifey...
What are you working on now?
I just dropped my new single By My Side produced by TeeY mix and directed by afamDman. It can be seen on youtube and also gotten from the MTN callertunez by sending 011285 to 4100. I plan to release a 2nd video in a few weeks (God willing). I'm also working to release my collabors with PaulIKdairo, Sunny Neji, Kefee, etc in time.
In July, I'm partnering with an NGO to raise money to train some orphans up to the university level. I also plan to honor some invitations in the UK and US and start off promotions for my new single.
Finally?
I'd like to say thank you to Santiago for giving me this opportunity to share my thoughts... God bless you! To members of CGAS, my family, friends, fans, bosses, colleagues and all who have supported me thru the years, I say a big THANK YOU!!! Let's do more!! I love you plenty... God Bless you!
Contact details
Website: www.charlesgranville.com, www.myspace.com/charlesgranvillemusic
Email: charles@charlesgranville.com, charlesgranville@yahoo.com
Mobile: +234(0) 803 316 9943, 808 3133 083
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