58-year-old acting prodigy Segun Arinze has revealed that his real identity and the story of how he came to be known by the name that has since become associated with his fame.
The veteran actor made this known during a recent interview with the ‘TalktoB’ podcast.
Back in 1991, Segun was entertaining audiences with his musical voice in addition as well as displaying his acting prowess. He had no idea that fate had something truly remarkable in store for him.
As a young artist waiting for his big break, Segun Aina is suddenly presented with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. A highly sought-after record deal from Sony Music beckoned. Gazing up at the sky with dreams in his eyes, Segun seized the opportunity and signed on the dot.
This is where the storyline suddenly changes! A straightforward mistake during a performance revealed Segun to the world as none other than Segun Arinze. What a strange turn of events! The name adhered like glue despite the initial mistake, propelling Segun Aina into the spotlight as Segun Arinze.
When his debut album, Dreams, was finally released, there it was, clearly visible to everyone: Segun Arinze, the name that would live on in the annals of entertainment history.
There were some difficulties on the route from Segun Aina to Segun Arinze, though. Segun’s road to fame was marked by tenacity and fortitude as he defied his father’s intentions, who hoped to see him take on the title of a lawyer.
In his words: I was singing as well. I was told I was being signed. That was in 1991. “You will be signed on by us.” He arrived from Sony Music. He then gave me a call, and I signed the agreement. He sighed. Then he said, “All right, let’s get started with the recording.”
“To pursue dramatic arts, I traveled to Ife.” My father was against the notion since he thought I should become a lawyer. There was a moment when I believed he would not cover my tuition so I could go study drama.
“Thereafter, the National Theatre hosted an open theater event with the theme “welcome new artiste Segun Arinze.” “Pardon me, sir. What is this?” I uttered. I questioned why you were altering my name. Dreams, the album, was released. There was “Segun Arinze, Segun Arinze” everywhere. In summary, this is how Segun Aina became Segun Arinze.
That’s the amazing story of how Segun Aina transformed into the well-known Segun Arinze, a moniker that still has resonance with people all over the world. What a remarkable transition that seems right out of a Hollywood script!
