‘I was a Footballer’ – Pasuma Reveals Football Career Turned Music Journey

Veteran Nigerian musician Pasuma, also known as Wasiu Alabi Odetola, shared that his journey into music began after a setback in his football career.

In a recent interview with Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo, he revealed that he initially pursued football but shifted to music after not making it to the Nigerian squad for the 1985 FIFA U-16 World Championship in China.

Pasuma credited the global success of Wasiu Ayinde’s 1984 album, ‘Talazo ’84’, as a significant inspiration for his transition to music following the disappointment in his football aspirations.

Pasuma said, “In 1984, Alhaji King Wasiu Ayinde released an album called ‘Talazo ’84’.’ The album was everywhere; worldwide.

“So, I decided to go into music because I was a footballer. I was invited to CODAK 85 [1985 FIFA U-16 World Championship]. I was among four players picked from a club in Shogunle.

“Unfortunately, I wasn’t picked to go to the World Cup, so that was when I decided to go into music.

“I was a professional footballer. So, that was how I ventured into music. The rest is history today.”