Gospel singer and flutist, Pastor Samuel Olakunle Ajayi aka Kunle Ajayi, could be regard­ed as one of the best flutist in Nigeria because of his dexterity on the wind instrument. Man of God as Ayayi is popularly called shares his over 20 year’s stage experience today.

Looking back, could you remem­ber the first time you played live on stage?
That was in the 70’s. I was a Sunday school boy then. I went for a camp meeting at the Apostolic Church, Lagos. During the programme, the pastor asked that whoever could sing should volunteer so I came out.
How was it?
It was not a laughing matter because the orchestra was asked to back me up and my head got swollen. I was almost confused but went ahead to sing just the same. I still remember vividly, the song was a Christ­mas Carol.
What about foreign shows?
That was when Pastor Adeboye came to Germany to minister. I saw lots of white people and they were ready to listen. I was a bit frightened but I surmounted and performed.
How were you able to overcome the stage fright?
I just kept on playing my music and before I knew it I was delivering and the congregation kept on clapping.
How do you prepare for a show?
I rehearse, fast and pray.
What do you do 24hours before a show?
I communicate with God and I do a lot of personal rehearsals even while driving. At times I wake up in the middle of the night when people are sleeping to rehearse.
Do you take any stimulant like cof­fee or any other thing?
I don’t take coffee or any stimulant. In fact I don’t take coffee at all.
How do you get the energy to perform?
It’s the grace of God and I don’t eat too much because you have to be light especially when you blow or play wind instruments; you need air in your body and not food .
Do you treat your voice with honey or anything?
No. I do exercises which help my voice. I do a lot of breathing exercises.
What of water?
I don’t take water on stage. I am not saying those doing it are wrong. I can play seven hours without taking water. However, after performing I can take anything.
So you don’t get dehydrated?
Yes I don’t.
What is the relationship between you and your fans?
We communicate through telephone, e-mail and my website. We also chat and talk.
Has any male or female fan done anything out of ordinary to you?
Nobody has done anything out of the ordinary to me except shaking hands and hugging because before you know it I am off. Besides I am always at church programmes so I guess I am always lucky.
Even females,,, no exceptional hugs?
I’m always in a hurry and I don’t carry myself in a way that I will be easily no­ticed; I am always in a hurry.
So you do disguise?
Yes a bit.