Nigerian singer Temitope Adekunle, popularly known as Small Doctor, has opened up about his strong passion for boxing. He described the sport as an important part of his life beyond music.
Small Doctor, in an interview with Punch, said he has always been involved in sports and remains particularly passionate about boxing. However, he also enjoys football.
Small Doctor reveals boxing passion
“Boxing is my life the same way football is some people’s life, and basketball is for other people; boxing is mine,” the singer said.
He named legendary heavyweight Mike Tyson as his favourite sportsman of all time. Meanwhile, he picked Nigerian table tennis star Quadri Aruna as his favourite African athlete.
Small Doctor also revealed that Barcelona is his preferred football club. Furthermore, he described Lionel Messi as the greatest sportsman in football.
The singer explained that his continued involvement in sports also provides an opportunity to stay connected with his supporters.
According to him, participating in sporting activities helps bridge the gap between him and his fans. It also gives him another platform to engage with people outside music.
Singer recalls difficult music journey
Small Doctor also reflected on his early years in the entertainment industry. He admitted that breaking into music was difficult because he did not come from a wealthy background.
He said he took on several petty jobs to raise money for studio sessions during the early stage of his career.
The singer credited producer Pennywise with helping him record his first song for almost nothing after recognising his potential.
Small Doctor also revealed that songwriting has never been part of his creative process. He said he usually enters the studio and records whatever comes naturally.
He said none of his biggest songs was written beforehand. In addition, he added that artistes including Olamide and Don Jazzy have witnessed his unconventional recording process.
Despite criticism that some of his songs rely heavily on freestyle and street slang, Small Doctor maintained that his music carries messages through storytelling. It also contains expressions familiar to his core audience.
He added that one of the biggest lessons he has learnt from the entertainment industry is the importance of remaining himself.
