“Growing up around musically-inclined people influenced my interest in music and I always knew this was what I wanted to do.” – Konstance
By Hope Ibiale
The African music industry has seen the entry of talented young artistes who have injected themselves in the consciousness of music enthusiasts. Among them are Qing Madi, Kold AF, Tega Ethan, Taves, Joshua Baraka, and many others who have released incredible music that has soared on various charts. Joining their ranks is 19-year-old R&B and Afrobeats artiste, Constance Olatunde, popularly known as Konstance. Born into a musically-inclined family, Konstance began her journey by posting covers on social media. She participated in and eventually won the first edition of De9ja Spirit Talent Hunt. She also participated in the 8th edition of Nigerian Idol.
Armed with a passion for music, the artiste kicked her solo career in full gear with the release of her 2023 debut record, “Melo”. In the same year, she also featured on the soundtrack of the award-winning film, The Color Purple. She is also set to make her acting debut in Idris Alba’s short film, Dust to Dream. With four singles to her name and a debut EP on the way, Konstance is slowly affirming her spot in the lane of emerging artistes to watch out for.
In this interview with Afrocritik, the “Melo” crooner walks readers through her budding career, the challenges she has faced, and how she prepared for her acting debut, amongst others.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself? Who is Konstance?
My name is Konstance and I come from a family of singers. At the age of 12, I began posting music covers on social media. I released my first single, “Melo”, last year and I am signed to Bankulli Entertainment.
Which artistes did you listen to growing up, and how did they shape your sound?
I listened to many gospel and R&B artists such as Kim Burrell, Brandy, Tasha Cobbs, and the Walls Group. From them, I learned techniques like breath control, riffs, and runs. Their music significantly influenced my sound and delivery.

You mentioned you started singing when you were 12 years old. What sparked your interest in music?
I was born into a family of singers. Everyone in my family can sing and play an instrument. Being surrounded by musically inclined people sparked my interest in music, and I always knew it was my passion. Currently, I am the only one in my family actively pursuing a music career. At 16, I won a music competition, solidifying my decision to pursue music even while attending university.
You currently balance music with academics. How do you do it? What challenges have you faced while balancing both?
I am currently a third-year student of History and International Studies at Lagos State University. Balancing my studies and my music career is stressful because I am determined to maintain good grades while also building my career as an artiste. I understand that this requires significant sacrifices; at one point, I had to take a semester off from school. However, I have become accustomed to managing both academics and music.
Most of the records in your discography are centred around themes of love. Why is this theme important to your music? What other themes would Konstance like to explore?
I enjoy exploring a range of emotions. Right now, I’m in a phase where I feel surrounded by love, and I want to capture that in my music. My EP, In The Beginning, features a chapter dedicated to the love I’ve experienced. Moving further, you’d see more shades of Konstance.
Walk me through your music-making process. Where do you begin?
I draw inspiration from the experiences of others since I’m still young and haven’t lived through many situations myself. People’s stories interest me. In the studio, I listen to a beat repeatedly and decide what to write about.

You won the first edition of the De9ja Spirit Talent Hunt. How did you feel after winning the competition?
I was thrilled and recognised it as a crucial step forward in my music career. It boosted my confidence significantly and attracted interest from numerous record labels. Winning the competition also motivated me to strive harder, as I saw the rewards of my years of dedication. It helped me reach a larger audience and gain valuable exposure.
You participated in the 8th edition of the music competition, Nigerian Idol. Can you share your experience?
When I joined Nigerian Idol, I was already accustomed to competing from participating in various other music contests. However, the competition stood out as I gained valuable insights into stage management and had the opportunity to connect with more influential people.
You have earned recognition from top artistes and industry giants like Don Jazzy, Bankulli, Tiwa Savage, Oxlade, and many others. What was your reaction when you saw their support for your music? Which artistes would you like to work with?
It was unbelievable because I look up to these artistes and now they support my music. It is like a dream come true. Meeting them has been a major milestone for me. Looking ahead, I’d like to collaborate with Justin Bieber, Kanye West, and Rema. If I ever get the chance to meet Rema, I would love to have a conversation with him for six hours. On the production side, I’d like to work with P.Priime, Ozedikus, and London.
You recently worked on the soundtrack for the award-winning film, The Colour Purple. How did you feel when you were told that you were going to work on the film’s soundtrack?
I felt a deep sense of fulfillment, as I had always dreamed of having my song featured in a movie since I was young. The excitement from everyone around me was incredible. Being part of the soundtrack was one of the year’s highlights for me. It was a truly significant milestone for Konstance as an artiste. Collaborating with Rodney Jerkins was also a standout moment in my career.
You are making your acting debut in Idris Alba’s short film, Dust to Dreams. How did you prepare for the role? What are your other interests?
I read the script multiple times and watched a lot of YouTube videos because this was my first time on screen. I was nervous but I am glad I was able to deliver well. I also have a passion for fashion. Currently, I am working on a fashion-related project.

Recently, the industry has seen an influx of Gen Z artistes who are taking our sound to global stages. How does Konstance contribute to this movement?
I’m proud to be part of a new wave of young artistes who are transforming the music industry. I’d also love to collaborate with them.
How did you feel when you performed live for the first time?
Performing live for the first time as the opening act at Flavour’s London show was a nerve-wracking but thrilling experience. It was exciting to hear the audience singing my music back to me. It’s an amazing feeling to realise that people genuinely enjoy my music.
Talk to me about your upcoming debut EP, In the Beginning
Bankulli and I collaborated on the project, which predominantly features songs centred around love. The first track on the EP was the most challenging to create, but my favourite song on the project is a collaboration.
How does Konstance drown out the noise and stay focused?
Every day, I remind myself that I know where I’m headed, so giving up is not an option. The journey may be stressful, but I keep pushing forward. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, I stick to a plan and prepare myself mentally.
You are currently signed to Bankulli’s record label. What’s one memorable piece of advice he has given you?
Bankulli frequently gives me advice. One piece of wisdom from him that I’ll always remember is, “Nobody will help you. You have to help yourself”.
What advice would you give to other emerging artistes?
Keep your head in the game and know where you are coming from. Once you reach your goal, keep pushing and work even harder.
Hope Ibiale is a writer and journalist. She has a keen interest in music, film, and literature. You can connect with Hope on X @hopeibiale and via email: hopeibiale@afrocritik.com.