CHAPTER 36

Johnny Drille sat with a guitar clutched against his chest, his mind adrift, and a deep frown etched on his face. He grappled with the challenge of composing a new song, struggling to find the right inspiration. The songs that had been presented to him were not connecting. Unlike typical Nigerian music, Johnny Drille specializes in slow, soulful melodies with a unique flavor. This day had proven to be particularly rough, even though he had faced struggles in the past. Recently, he had just released a song that had once again become a sensation, but with a relatively small audience, he couldn't afford to be forgotten.

Amid his creative frustrations, Johnny's social media handler entered the room, brimming with excitement. He addressed Johnny, saying, "Boss man, I have something to show you."

The handler sat down with his client and played a video that had tagged Johnny Drille. Upon hearing the first verse, Johnny Drille immediately sat up, captivated by the person playing and singing. It was as though he could feel every emotion conveyed by the singer. As the song concluded, his face expressed astonishment, and he snatched the phone from his handler to rewatch the video.

Johnny turned to his handler and exclaimed, "Peter, who is this person?" He paused for a moment and corrected himself, "No, I meant, contact him for me. I love this song. This is what I've been looking for!" A broad smile lit up Johnny Drille's face.

Peter looked at him and replied, "Well, are you forgetting that it's not my job?"

Johnny Drille realized his mistake and said, "Oh, that's true. Please, call Matthew for me ASAP." He eagerly scrolled through his phone to replay the video.

Peter smiled as he walked out of the room. However, before fully leaving, he remembered his purpose for being there and asked, "So, what should I do about the video?"

Johnny Drille, still engrossed in his search, responded, "Peter, you know what to do. Don't act like you don't."

Peter chuckled and nodded before finally leaving the room, saying, "Yes, I do know what to do, boss."

Meanwhile, Adekunle had just posted the video and turned to Hamza, inquiring, "It's done. So, why did you tag that blogger?"

Hamza replied, "Well, he was the one who posted the first video that brought me recognition by the hostess on the plane, so I thought it was fitting," casting a glance at Adekunle, who nodded in understanding.

Curiosity piqued, Adekunle asked, sitting on the bed beside Hamza, "So, what are your plans for your music career?"

Hamza sat up straight, locking eyes with Adekunle, before responding, "I want to go to school first and then pursue a music career."

He understood that some might question the necessity of further education, but for him, it was essential. Hamza believed that formal education would equip him with the skills needed to thrive in the music industry, especially if he aimed for an international career. His passion extended beyond music; he also had an interest in repairing things like toys and other gadgets. His father's revelation that he had studied engineering had left Hamza in awe, and he sought confirmation from his mother, which she readily provided.

Adekunle, appreciating Hamza's dedication to education and music, inquired, "When you say 'school,' do you mean you want to finish secondary school or attend a university?"

Hamza responded, "I want to finish university. That way, I'll be well-educated and prepared to pursue a music career. Besides, my parents always emphasized the importance of education, so I want to honor their memory."

Adekunle offered silent comfort through a reassuring hand on Hamza's shoulder. The silence lingered, and then Adekunle broke it, saying, "That's good to hear. I'm happy that you value education."

"Thank you, sir," Hamza replied, chuckling.

Adekunle chuckled and commented, "I like the way you value education. It's a good trait."

He couldn't help but notice that Hamza appeared more mature than his age. The reasons behind this maturity were likely the challenges he had faced, from losing his family to caring for his younger sister, to surviving a kidnapping and a gunshot. If Adekunle had known about these experiences, he would have understood why Hamza possessed wisdom beyond his years.

Adekunle's phone rang, and he excused himself to pick up the call before walking out of Hamza's room. Left alone, Hamza sat there, his mind wandering about music. Suddenly, he heard a familiar sound—a notification.

DING!

- +3PP

- +5OPP

- +11PP

- +29PP

- …

Hamza was bewildered by the series of notifications displayed on the screen. Just then, Adekunle entered the room and cast a strange look at Hamza, who nervously chuckled and asked, "Uncle, is there something on my face?"

Adekunle laughed and replied, "Well, no, someone just contacted me. They want your song."

Hamza looked even more confused and couldn't help but ask, "Song? What song is that?"

Adekunle grinned and clarified, "Hehe, the song we just posted. The person you told me to tag also tagged it. His name is Johnny Drille, and he wants your song."

Hamza sat there, receiving this message with shock, before shaking his head and saying proudly, "what that fast" Hamza said "It's not luck; that's my strength."

Adekunle was surprised but believed Hamza's words. He shook his head, feeling overwhelmed by the series of events that had occurred in just one day. First, Hamza's amazing song, then discovering how mature the boy was, and now a popular musician wanted his song. It was a lot to take in, but one thing was certain: Hamza was undoubtedly a one-in-a-century talent.