Profile and short interview with the rising star Nigeria born UK based Saxophonist Gabriel Olaleye a.k.a Saxangel
Gabriel Taiwo Olaleye, popularly called Saxangel is one of Nigeria’s most gifted and captivating musicians who has carved a niche for himself through playing the Saxophone. He hails from Ogun State, the South western part of Nigeria, born in the early 80’s to a family of four; he is the first son and second of the twin of Mr and Mrs Olaleye.
He is a pharmaceutical science graduate from Kingston University London, United Kingdom and a professional musician with strong Christian ethics.
His music style ranges from gospel, traditional jazz to contemporary African genre but he has now pioneered a term for his style of music called SAXFROBEAT
He is Single and focused, enjoys traveling and watching movies and loves sprinting.
In this exclusive interview, Gabriel Taiwo Olaleye popularly known as Saxangel spoke with about his musical career.
Can you tell us your name?
My name is Gabriel Taiwo Olaleye, they call me Saxangel
Why did you choose Music as a career?
I didn’t choose music oooo lol. It was music that chose me. I’m a trained pharmaceutical scientist but had passion for music since I was young. I never knew I was going to become a musician..
What are the challenges you have faced in your career?
Many challenges but God saw us through all. I will like to keep this private for reasons known to me.
Are you married?
No, I’m single. Do you want to marry me? Lol
What is the next step now?
A lot is coming up as I will be having my first UK concert sometimes in July this year and also my Saxfrobeat project is on-going. I am also looking forward to perform someday at big festivals in the UK like the Wireless concert, Notting hill carnival and the prestigious One Africa Music Festival.
What do you think about the United Kingdom for musicians like you? The United Kingdom is known as a diverse country and it attracts people from all over the world. There are so many opportunity for musicians like me as far as I can see because there are concerts, clubs, festivals that are hosted day in day out and I believe tapping into one of this will be a great benefit.
I am a saxophonist that combines Jazz with Afrobeat, something which is not common in the United Kingdom. I strongly believe that the UK music market is yet to have something like that and I am ready to showcase the uniqueness in my craft to the world.
