There are few who brave their ability to embrace liberty, expansion, and voice. Through the pseudo-hippy grapevine, I've had the privilege of being introduced to musical artists doing just that. A strong, raw, smooth voice flowing with experience and wisdom is enough to weaken the knees. Imagine Nina Simone, Talib Kweli, Bob Dylan, Ray Charles, Anjelique Kidjo, and Lauren Hill. The magic we feel immersing ourselves in their music is born from their unique ability as artists to separate magic from mundane.
A while back I was introduced to Asa, the Nigerian singer songwriter who was banned from choir because of her 'deep voice'. She secretly signed at Peter King's School Of Music and learned guitar in 6 months. Golden singers, Erika Badu and Lauren Hill influenced Asa's musical style towards perfection. She's a bad ass. Every stroke of a chord evokes some pain which bloomed to pleasure derived from growing up in Lagos. Inspiration is the seat of her soul and her lyrics paint a picture of healing ignorance and embracing knowledge and empowerment.
Africa may be her backdrop but the world is in her eyes. Asa's got it goin' on and we can learn a lot form her soulful messages. Elusive beauty in one voice being carried atop a smooth rhythm of instumentals... damn.
Her songs Jailer, and So Beautiful should be heard by everyone.
