Nigeria’s newest talent, Salle’s Alté-inspired brand of Afropop caught our attention after just two releases. Get familiar with her via this VIPER Presents interview…

What five words define your sound?

Magical, conscious, Iconic, hopeful and real.

Tell me something unique about your creative process.

I don’t try to make it work, I just do it.

Which song of yours would you like people to hear first?

I’d like people to hear ‘Icon’ first.

What inspired you to make that song?

I was inspired by my life and fiction.

What’s the most vulnerable you’ve allowed yourself to be when writing/making music? 

I’m always vulnerable, especially when writing songs dear to my heart. I could even take a break just to cry and be in my feelings before going back to recording.

What’s the best/worst experience you’ve had on stage?

Best experience was when I received a sketched picture of mine on stage. I haven’t had any bad experiences yet.

What is your favourite song to perform?

My favourite song to perform is ‘Icon’.

Which artist/song/album made you want to make music?

Asa gave me a beautiful and intense perspective of music and contribution majorly after listening to her self-titled album in 2015.

What’s the meaning behind your name?

“Salle” defines an empty hall or room. I needed a name that would describe me as the main character and this means I am the art and I’ll fill up the room with my creativity.

If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing instead?

If I wasn’t making music I’ll definitely be in fashion.

What’s success to you?

Success to me is growth, consistency, passion, patience and resilience.

What moment in your life/career forced you to change direction?

The moment my video went viral in 2021. It gave my life a turn that I wasn’t even ready for, but for the better, I’m pursuing it passionately and it’s been amazing and positive.

Where can people keep in touch with you?

You can find me on all platforms with @Callmesalle.

Photo by Yusuf Sanni