“I Lost My Drive After Sound Sultan Passed” — Seyi Shay Gets Emotional

Nigerian singer and songwriter, Deborah Oluwaseyi Joshua, popularly known as Seyi Shay, has opened up on how the death of her mentor, Sound Sultan, deeply affected her music career.

According to Ireporter Online, the “Your Matter” crooner disclosed in an interview with TVC that she lost the zeal to continue pursuing music after the late singer’s passing. She explained that the loss was a turning point for her, as it coincided with her pregnancy, which also influenced her decision to take a break from the industry due to its toxic environment.

Recounting her close bond with Sound Sultan, Seyi Shay revealed that he played a pivotal role in her career, accommodating her when she first moved to Nigeria and introducing her to key figures in the music scene. She described him not only as a mentor but also a father figure and best friend who ensured she was well-guided in the industry.

Reflecting on his death, she said it was painful that she never got the chance to see him before his passing. According to her, she had planned to visit him in New York during a break from filming Nigerian Idol, but he died before she could make the trip.

“I felt like I didn’t have the will to continue music without Sound Sultan. My peace of mind and mental health were affected, so I decided to take a break,” she said.

She added that her pregnancy during that period reinforced her decision to step away, as she was determined not to raise her child within the toxic environment and intense scrutiny of the music industry.