My names are Darlington Arinze Akanite a.k.a Safin de Coque. I’m an artiste, a rapper to be precise. I’m a son of Chief (Dr) Oliver de Coque, the late highlife maestro. I happen to be the second son of the family.
Educational Background
I’m a graduate of Theatre Arts from the Lagos State University (LASU). I graduated in 2003 and decided to pursue a career in music.
Early life
Growing up was quite fun, though it was not as rosy as people think it was, considering the fact that I lost my mum at a very tender age but I thank God that I had a super father who was able to play the motherly and fatherly roles.
Music as a profession
I’ve been doing music for a very long time now but people don’t seem to realize that. I’ve been in the game as far back as 2004, just that I needed to master my craft, perfect my work and hone my skills.
How did you come about your name?
I got the name Safin from the street. It actually stands for STREET ALLEGIANCE FOREVER IN NIGERIA. The street gave me the name in the sense that I’m so heavy in the hood and the streets as well because that is what music is all about, music is the voice of the street and the street is the voice of music.
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| Satin's father Oliver de Coque |
I didn’t go into music based on my father’s influence, I didn’t even choose music rather music chose me. As a kid growing up, I always fantasized about being the best rapper of my time and I think that dream is about to come true because I can strongly feel it.
Did you have your father’s support?
Yes, I had his support musically, If I didn’t have his support, I wouldn’t be here with you. My dad noticed my raw talent at a very tender age and he gave me all the support a father would to a child. One day he looked me in the eyes and said, “son, I know that you will make me proud someday” and I believed him.
What kind of music do you do?
Well, I do rap hip-hop unlike my Dad that was so heavily into highlife music and Ekpili music as well. I love hip-hop and I enjoy every single moment I spend writing and rapping. Yes!
When did you get your first break?
Well, I got my major break when I performed at the Nigeria music awards which was held in Owerri in 2008. Actually, I never dreamt of show-casing what I have got considering the magnitude of the crowd coupled with some prominent Nigerians present at the occasion, but thank God I did my very best, even my dad applauded me because he was there live watching and I will like to believe that I made him proud.
How has it been since then?Its been so wonderful and amazing. The Nigerian music award concert was like an eye-opener for me because I have learnt a lot ever since and by His grace, I am still learning and will keep learning till the heaven calls me.
What inspires you?
I get my inspiration from God, my environment and life in general. I also get inspiration by reading books, watching movies and communicating with people.
What other projects are you involved in?
I am into few projects for now, but the one I am really facing right now is my Dad’s 2013 memorial lecture to mark his fifth year of demise. It will be a very big event as we have already contacted and notified some of the movers and shakers of the society including the ordinary people as well because my father represented almost every area of life.
What does entertainment mean to you?
Entertainment, to me, is a way of life, expression and style. Entertainment to me is beyond making people dance and being all out for the money. Though I will be lying if I say I don’t want millions but more than money saved, I want to save people. So, in conclusion, it’s a way of reaching out and touching lives positively.
Tell us about your new single.
My new single is titled ‘Still I survive’ and I featured Tolu (Project Fame). The song is for the hopeless. It’s a motivational song designed to make the youth discover their inner strength and the power they possess in spite of the challenges they face on daily basis.
What inspired your song?
I got the inspiration to write the song based on my past experiences, the life I lived on the street and the pains I see people go through everyday. The rap verses talks of the plight of the motherless kids.
Why did you decide to feature Tolu in your song?
I decided to feature Tolu because he is the best man for the job and also because I trust his vocal dexterity. Even the idea of Tolu being on the song wasn’t mine but my management crew’s because, according to them, Tolu has what so many singers out there don’t have.
What’s next for you?
I just want to focus more on my videos and work on my other songs.
Tell us something no one knows about you
I am very reserved and introverted. I like keeping to myself but people hardly notice because of my jovial and artistic nature.
What would you have been if not a musician?
I would have been a good lawyer if music hadn’t chosen me but since music called first, who am I to say no.
How do you intend to stay ahead of competition?
I intend to stay ahead by being focused and dedicated. I work every day and night to be the best I can be and I think the results of my sleepless nights are beginning to pay off. When others are sleeping, I am working and when others are working I am still working, so what do you expect?
What challenges do you face in your craft?
Well, I face lots of challenges, just like everybody else. The only difference is that I don’t let the challenges weigh me down, because I believe they are only temporal and they make me strong as a man.
How have you been able to overcome them?
I have been able to do so with God by my side, prayers and sheer hardwork.
Your most embarrassing moment
The day I fell off stage on a campus show. My friends, families and loved ones were present there to watch me do what I know how to do best. I wasn’t drunk though, just that I was over excited
Should fans expect new album?
Fans should expect an album from Safin De Coque by the end of the year but for now I am working more on my videos and massive promotion.
What is the concept behind the album?
I’d planned naming the album “The inherited gift” based on my lineage considering my musical background. It is going be a very big project as I plan to feature some of the big names in the industry.
Fashion sense?
I wear what I feel is good for me and what makes me feel comfortable. I have got fetish for good clothes.
Look like he is dad, can never be like his dad in terms of music
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