Nigerian singer-songwriter John Ighodaro, professionally known as Johnny Drille, has opened up about his transformative journey into fatherhood since welcoming his first child with wife Rima Tahini.
The couple announced the birth of their daughter, Amaris Esohe Ighodaro, on November 17, 2023.
In an intimate conversation with Dose Of Society, the “Wait For Me” crooner described how parenthood deepened his appreciation for his own parents.
“The one rule I live by is family first,” Drille emphasized. “I would abandon anything I’m doing anywhere in the world if my family needs me, super importantly.”
The Mavin Records artist credited his family as his lifelong support system: “Every time I got overwhelmed by the world around me, I always run back to family. And, it all felt better. They have been there for me, especially, my parents. My biggest dream in life is to be able to take care of them, and get them to see the world.”
Drille recounted his humble beginnings: “My parents didn’t have much. I remember it was really hard sometimes and we would not have food to eat and they would figure out a way to be able to provide food for us. They just made it work and made it fun for us.”
With newfound parental perspective, the singer reflected: “Back then it looked fun, but now when I think about it, I just know they were trying to shield us from a lot of things at that time. Now I have a daughter and I understand what it feels like to be able to nurture someone.”
The 32-year-old artist concluded emotionally: “Right now, I appreciate my parents even more for what they did for me and my siblings. Having a child changes your life in the most incredible ways. And I think that’s not talked about enough, but I’m grateful that I have parents that were able to nurture me, especially in a crazy world like this, and to be able to navigate the different aspects of life.”
