Timaya Reflects on Portable’s Similarities to His Wild Past
In a recent interview with Channels Television, Nigerian singer Timaya expressed his admiration for the controversial artist Portable, revealing that he sees a reflection of his younger self in the singer’s wild antics. Timaya humorously shared how he first discovered Portable’s music and felt an immediate connection due to their shared exuberance.
Timaya recalled a memorable moment when he mentioned Portable to fellow musician 2Baba during a trip to Delta State. He said, “I told 2Baba about him, saying, ‘Have you heard that guy Portable? Zazu Zeh. That guy is just like me because I was a crazy guy.’” This statement highlights Timaya’s belief that Portable embodies a spirit of fun and recklessness reminiscent of his early days in the music industry.
While Timaya acknowledged the perceptions of today’s Gen Z audience—who often view him as “unproblematic”—he emphasized that this perspective overlooks his more tumultuous beginnings. “They say Timaya minds his business, and I just look at them like, if only they knew me,” he remarked, reflecting on how he has matured over the years. He noted, “It’s now I have calmed down; I was crazy then. I was really really really crazy; I was hot like fire, but I think there’s growth.”
Timaya also took the opportunity to clarify a rumor that has followed him since the early days of his career, which suggested he had negative encounters with military personnel. He dismissed this claim, asserting, “Why would I get involved with them? I’m not trying to shade or disrespect anybody, but in whatever you do, you must apply wisdom or sense.” He elaborated that despite his wild persona, it was all part of a strategic approach to his music career. He entered the industry at a time when love songs dominated, and as an artist from the Niger Delta, he aimed to differentiate himself.
Timaya’s reflections offer a glimpse into the complexities of his journey as an artist. His connection to Portable serves not only as a nostalgic reminder of his youth but also as a testament to the growth and evolution that comes with time in the spotlight.
