“I don’t know who you are but you are perfect”, “You have bewitched us”, “This voice is about to do a lot of songs”… Like us, the coaches of The Voice were captivated by Olema’s exceptional performance during the blind auditions this Saturday evening. It’s hard to imagine that the 27-year-old doesn’t have years of experience behind her. And yet, she left her job as an industrial engineer only a few months ago to devote herself to her passion. Part of Mika’s team, Olema now hopes to go as far as possible in the adventure to make a living from music. Interview.
Do you realize what is happening to you with The Voice ?
No way ! I don’t even know how to define what I feel. This is the first time that I have been listened to and seen by so many people.
How did you experience your blind auditions?
I was in my little bubble. I chose a song that I love so I tried to interpret it in the best way possible. I was completely unaware of what was happening around me.
You impressed the coaches, who all turned around and praised you… What did that do to you?
I was not excpecting that at all ! It really touched me, and I was super happy at the same time because I was finally seeing the coaches in real life. I was like a child! Afterwards, they were talking to me and there were silences… It was a bit of a weird moment (Laughs). And to tell you the truth, I don’t really remember what they said to me. My sister had to tell me everything when I came backstage. I was totally stunned.
Before the auditions, did you know which coach you wanted to experience the adventure with?
I was hesitating between Zazie and Mika because I love them both. But after my performance, I listened to all the coaches convincing me and I had huge doubts. It took me a long time to choose. I finally chose Mika and I’m so happy!
What tipped the scales in Mika’s favor?
I chose him because I still have a lot of childhood memories with his music. I also learned to sing with his music like Happy Ending Or Relax, Take It Easy.
Why did you decide to participate in The Voice NOW ?
I quit my job as an industrial engineer five months ago to devote myself to music. I released my first album, called Marlenein 2023. It was the perfect time to get into music and do it 100% because I love it.
Why this album title?
Marlène is my real first name. I chose Olema as my stage name because it is a name that echoes not only my childhood but also water, which is for me a symbol of freedom.
Where does your passion for music come from?
It’s something I’ve always had in me. No one in my family plays music. I grew up in Cameroon and arrived in France ten years ago to study. That’s when I realized it was really made for me.
What do you expect from your adventure The Voice ?
I hope this show will allow me to make my music heard and convey my message!
What is this message?
A message of acceptance of difference. I love this phrase: “To be crazy is divine”. It’s a way of making people understand that extravagance is a strength. I’ve often been told “but you’re crazy!” because I liked different things. For me, there is beauty in that too. There is also a real question of identity in my work because I left my native country.