Artist profile - Mercenary: ‘I acknowledge criticisms, but I remain focused on the positives' |29 March 2018

Every week the Entertainment page will try to bring you a short profile on a Seychellois artist, be it in the performing, visual or other forms of art.

In our profile this week, readers will learn more about the talented artist Vincent Eliza AKA Mercenary.

He has made a name for himself in the music industry, with his various popular songs such as ‘Ou Zis Parey’, ‘Past and Gone’, ‘Ankor en Fwa’, ‘San Ou’, ‘Par Lao Jah’ among others.

Mercenary made his debut in the music industry at the age of 15 years. He started by featuring with other local singers and performing in mini shows.

His unique, husky voice, together with his talent in using powerful and captivating lyrics in the different styles of songs he sings, has gained him massive popularity.

The artist will make an explosive performance in Seychelles on April 7, 2018, to launch his new album entitled Mercenary.  

Q: When did you start your career as a singer?

A:  It all started at the age of 14 or 15 when I realised that I was fascinated by Jamaican dancehall music. I started imitating these artists. Around the same time I had the opportunity to experience working in a studio.

Q: Since you started your career in the music industry, can you describe your adventure?

A:  The journey so far has been an interesting one. It has also been a struggle, in terms of lack of support from other people because they had not yet understood my art. I had to persevere in order for my music to gain recognition both locally and abroad. Music got me to places even I never thought I could reach.

Q:  What’s your motto or the advice you live by?

A: Never give up no matter what happens.

Q: How do you overcome negative comments among the society?                                                                                                    

A: I acknowledge criticisms, but I remain focused on the positives.

Q: What can your fans expect to witness in your live concert next week?

A: They will see me give my best, and see a nation coming together and uniting all because of the love for music.

Q:  What inspired you to go into the entertainment business?

A: It did not start off as a business, just for the love of it. The business aspect is inevitable when you want to advance and share your passion with others.

Q: So, what other hidden talents do you have?

A:  I think I have only been blessed with making music.

Q: Do you think Seychelles artists can match up to other international artists?

A: We definitely can in terms of work ethics and talent, we however have fewer opportunities and that makes a huge difference.

Q: Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a singer? 

A: My tone of voice is different from other artists, but mostly the creativity that comes through my work.

Q: How are fans reacting to your new album?

A: Thus far I have been receiving positive comments even beyond my expectations.

Q: What can we expect from you in the future?

A: As long as God continues to bless me I will continue to make music.

Compiled by U.J.