Nigerian singer Adekunle Temitope, popularly known as Small Doctor, has revealed that he has never written any of his hit songs, saying he creates his music spontaneously in the studio.
The singer disclosed this in an interview while responding to criticism that his songs are largely freestyle and do not convey meaningful messages.
Small Doctor said artists including Don Jazzy and Olamide, whom he has worked with, are aware that he does not write lyrics.
“I have never written songs. I just go into the studio and say it as it comes. None of my hit songs was written,” he said.
According to him, his spontaneous approach to music does not mean his songs lack messages, as he often communicates through street slang and storytelling.
“Artists that I have worked with like Don Jazzy and Olamide know I don’t write lyrics, and I don’t think they have a problem with that,” he added.
Small Doctor challenged those who believe his music lacks substance to listen more closely to his songs, insisting that there are messages embedded in his lyrics.
“Anyone who says my songs do not pass messages should reflect on them again, and they will realise that there are messages in my songs,” he said.
The singer explained that his music is primarily targeted at the streets, noting that he has built a strong relationship with his audience.
“My music is made for the streets. If I tell them anything, they believe me, and I believe them as well,” he said.
Small Doctor also reflected on his early years in the music industry, revealing that he had to engage in petty jobs to raise money for studio sessions.
He said his journey was difficult because he was raised in an average family and had to provide some things for himself.
The singer, however, acknowledged the support he received from Pennywise, the producer who recorded his first song almost free of charge because he believed in his talent.
On how he got his stage name, Small Doctor said it was given to him by his elder brother, who linked it to his love for the television series, Dr. Who, and his small stature while growing up.
He said he initially used “Doctor Small” before changing it to “Small Doctor” because he felt the latter sounded better and was easier for his fans to relate to.
The singer also disclosed that his involvement in sports has helped him maintain a close relationship with his fans.
He named boxing legend Mike Tyson as his favourite sportsman and Nigerian table tennis star Quadri Aruna as his favourite African sportsman.
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