Nigerian Fuji ace Wasiu Alabi, popularly known as Pasuma, has shared a turning point that led to his successful music career.
In an interview with Iyabo Ojo, Pasuma recounted how a setback in his football dreams cleared the way for his legendary journey in the music industry.
The popular musician reflected on his dashed hopes of competing for Nigeria in the 1985 FIFA U-16 World Championship in China.
Pasuma revealed that his hopes of wearing the Nigerian jersey were dashed when he was not selected for the national team, which finally caused him to turn his attention and enthusiasm to music.
“I was a footballer but I decided to go into music because I was not picked to go to Kodak for the World Cup,” he said.
“So I now said I want to be a musician straight. I was a footballer before.”
Pasuma was raised in the Lagos state neighborhood of Mushin.
Inspired by his role model, K1 de Ultimate, he began creating songs in 1984.
He said the global success of Wasiu Ayinde’s 1984 album, ‘Talazo ’84” inspired him to embrace music immediately after his World Cup dream clashed.
In 1993, he released “Recognition,” his debut album.
Since then, he’s put out more than 30 albums.
Among the most popular musicians in the Fuji genre is Pasuma.
Among the several honors he has received are the City People Entertainment Award and Best Fuji Artiste.
