Afrobeat sensation Yemi Alade, the celebrated artist behind the global hit “Johnny”, sits with Chude Jideonwo on a new episode of #WithChude to share her remarkable story of resilience, identity, and authenticity.
In a deeply personal conversation, Yemi reflects on her evolution and what it truly means to embrace her identity as Mama Africa. She explains that the moment she understood her roots and truly knew herself, she stepped into the name with confidence, without waiting for anyone to hand her the title.
She recounts the early days of her career when she performed in over 300 free shows, driven by passion and belief in her craft. Yemi also shares how a well-known TV station owner once told her management that she was not “brandable,” a remark that only strengthened her resolve to define success on her own terms.
Opening up about her struggles, she reveals a period when she battled depression, triggered by insecurities about age and identity. She admits that she claimed to be 22 for three years, and when she realized she was actually 25, it led to an emotional breakdown.
Yemi also tells the story behind “Johnny”, saying the song was inspired by real-life events and that it was never officially released by her but leaked on the internet. The song would go on to become one of the defining records of Afrobeat and a global breakthrough for her career.
She reflects on how she stayed true to her path despite industry pressure to conform, including calls for Western collaborations, and explains why she remains selective about working with other female artists.
Speaking about what drives her, Yemi said, “The minute you know your roots and you know yourself, you become Mama Africa. I didn’t need anyone to pass me the baton, I just knew it was my time.”
In this intimate conversation with Chude Jideonwo, Yemi Alade shows a side of herself the world rarely sees, confident, vulnerable, and entirely at peace with the choices that made her who she is today. The true Mama Africa stands tall, with no regrets and a story that continues to inspire.
Watch Here : I said I was 22 for three years, and when I realized I was actually 25, I got depressed – Yemi Alade
Source: ameyawdebrah.com/
