Names are symbolic representations of brands and personalities alike. Some are familiar, some tend to stick, and some just hit you like a wave. The name, M.I.A has become more than a household name. It has grown from an acronym to a big brand –the next best thing. Melody Ifeanyi Adigo who goes by M.I.A is Nigeria’s renowned hype woman who started from being a radio broadcaster to achieving this status. Her energy and devotion to her craft has only taken her farther in the music and entertainment industry. M.I.A.’s exhilarating energy on stage leaves no space for any dull moment at parties and events.
In an interview with TTC, she discusses her brand, how she navigates in the entertainment industry, her achievements, and what it means to never be Missing In Action.
TTC: Hello, would you please introduce yourself to us?
M.I.A: I'm Melody Ifeanyi Adigo, popularly known as M.I.A, but definitely never Missing In Action! I'm a hype woman, event host and radio presenter on Soundcity 98.5 FM. I like never to be boring and I'm all about bringing unmatched vibes, and energy to every event and broadcast, and I’m the undisputed ACTION QUEEN.
TTC: How did you become a hype woman in the music industry? How is the success story going so far?
M.I.A: I became a hype woman by chance. I've always wanted to be an event host and I've been doing that in school since 2015. I started as a radio presenter in 2018 and quickly realised my passion for hyping. My journey began at the National Broadcast Academy, where I was always part of the party committee for events. Since then, it's been an incredible ride. From hyping at local parties to achieving overwhelming and deeply rewarding success, I've even become one of the resident hype acts across and outside Nigeria.
TTC: Can you share the best part of your job and what you like most about it? Also, what keeps you going and giving that vibrant energy on stage?
M.I.A: Music. That's the best part of my job because it helps me connect with the audience On Air and on stage. I'm addicted to music and I grew up in a musically-conscious family. I feel and love music personally and get to express that energy through music. There's something about seeing a crowd come alive and knowing you played a part in that.
What keeps me going is the energy and love from the audience and my fans. Their excitement fuels my own, and it's a cycle of positive vibes that never ends. That gives me life and makes me want to keep doing it over and over again.
TTC: As a woman working in a male-dominated industry, are there times you experience stereotypes or when things don't go as they should? How do you work around overcoming them?
M.I.A: What do you think? Definitely! Stereotypes come up, but I see these moments as opportunities to prove myself, and the fuel. As opposed to my personality on stage, I'm reserved so, at the beginning of my career, people get shocked after discovering how good I am. My approach is to stay focused, work hard, and let my performance speak for itself. It's all about showing that talent and energy are what truly matter, regardless of gender.
Nowadays, what I get are opinions centred around my career choice as a woman and balancing it with relationships.
TTC: How do you overcome these stereotypes and side-talks? What’s your strategy?
M.I.A: I don't argue. I just get the microphone and get in sync. I'm not bothered by these opinions at all.
TTC: Are there any music brands or musicians in particular you've worked with? What's your favourite memory on set?
M.I.A: I've had the pleasure of working with several amazing artists and brands. I’m currently Fave’s personal hype woman. I've shared a stage with Bagetti, Sarz, Joeboy, Bella Shmurda, Victony, Zlatan, Ruger, Niniola, Blaqbonez, Omah Lay, Ajebo Hustlers, ODUMODUBLVCK, Ruger, Crayon, LADIPOE and CKay to mention a few. I hyped for Duncan Mighty in Port Harcourt and went on a Campus tour with CKay. I've worked with DJ Consequence, Crowd Kontroller, DJ Titanium, Pocolee, Tobi Shang, Do2dtun, Jimi, Shody, etc. Also brands like Coke Studio, Spotify, Vogue Boys, Johnny Walker, and many more.
My favourite memory would be my premiere Block Party in 2021. I got on that stage and changed the atmosphere. It was my first big performance and at that moment I knew this was it. Special mention goes to the Tiger Uncaged event, the energy was over the roof from the beginning to the end. I was under the weather at one point and had the impression that I didn't do well but I pushed and performed excellently.
Also Smirnoff party, Spotify event, a Johnny Walker party in Ibadan. Once the energy is right, I am never Missing In Action!
TTC: What do you do when you're not busy hyping, broadcasting or being an entertainer?
M.I.A: When I'm not on stage or air, I stay indoors. I read and write when I’m not experiencing writer’s block. I also spend quality time with my friends. I've discovered that friendship is important especially when you're drained –they recharge you.
I love to relax with and connect with nature because I believe it keeps us sane. Like I mentioned earlier, I love music so I listen to more music when I'm less busy. Music is something that helps you no matter where you find yourself. And I love travelling, exploring new places, and food.
TTC: What advice would you like to share with any woman planning to venture into the hyping sector which is saturated with men?
M.I.A: As a woman coming into a male-doM.I.Ated industry, I’d say: Stay true to yourself and your passion, and don't let stereotypes or challenges deter you. Whatever you're doing, be the best. Men might guess graces but there's more left for women. Find your niche, learn to be the best while you evolve and keep growing. You might have to always prove yourself but don't get tired. Stay confident, work hard, and be great.
Another advice is that you should arm yourself with people who actually care about you. Nightlife might come with predators so you need your own people and team to look out for you.
TTC: Going forward, when the name M.I.A is mentioned, what should people expect?
M.I.A: Electric. This brand will transcend past hype to beauty, fashion, music, event hosting and so much more. When people hear the name M.I.A, they should expect an icon in the African entertainment scene. One who transcends beyond hype and radio. And of course, the vibes.