In an exclusive interview on Okukuseku monitored by News & Vibes, musician Erico opened up about his challenging journey, filled with hardships and discouragements, as he pursued his passion for music.
Erico, whose real name is Erico Kofi Oduro, shared his experience, revealing how he overcame obstacles, including the discouragement from Mr. Mark Okraku-Mantey, a prominent figure in the Ghanaian music industry who was a judge on the mentor show and its auditions.
“I entered Mentor in 2006. At that time, things were hard. My mum was abroad, I was sacked from home, I didn’t even have my mum’s contact, and my mum was also looking for me. Around the Mentor period, I met my father,” Erico recalled, reflecting on the tough times that marked the beginning of his journey.
Speaking of the audition process, Erico recounted, “I went for the second audition, the one with Cee, and I didn’t pass. So, for the third one, I didn’t want to go because, what Okraku would do to you, you may not consider yourself a singer again. That’s the truth.”
Erico vividly remembered the discouraging comments from Mr. Mark Okraku Mantey during the audition process.
“I remember the audition. When I entered first, he was like, ‘Eeeii Okala, what are you wearing?’ I was wearing a certain watch, he said, ‘Okala, this watch has reduced your marks. We won’t pick you,’” Erico recalled.
“He was very plain, which was good. I lost hope, but one friend called Michael encouraged me to go. He was also auditioning, but I was picked and he wasn’t.”
Despite the discouragement, Erico’s passion for music remained unshaken. His resilience and determination eventually paid off.
Now an established musician, Erico’s story is an inspiration to many aspiring artists. He stands as living proof that with determination and perseverance, one can overcome any obstacle to achieve their dreams.
