Nigerian musician Asa gives an insight into her journey in the music industry

With wide-ranging musical and creative influences, internationally celebrated Nigerian musician Asa has always forged her own path with her trailblazing sounds and songwriting. Fresh from releasing her fifth studio album V (Five), she exclusively talks with Mwangi Alberto about the project and her other music experiences

Congratulations on the release of your new album. What is the story behind it?

V is my fifth studio album, which takes cues from pop, Afrobeat, R&B and soul influence. It was inspired by the people I met during the Covid-19 lockdown, and there was something about this period that was calming, but also uncertain. There was a lot of suspense, with no one knowing what was going to happen next, as most artistes tried to find other ways to create. During this period, my tour was cancelled and I went back to Nigeria and was writing this album from home, but most importantly, the music pushed the images and the direction of where the song and lyrics would go.

How was the journey of making the album?

It took almost a year to create V. I went into it first and foremost to meet creatives from Lagos, because it was the best time to do so. I had never had the time or opportunity to do so since releasing my first album, as I was mostly touring. It was more about the different people I was and doing music every day and finding my place somewhere there. So, there was no mood board, and I didn’t know I was doing an album. I just wanted to do everything and connect, and a year later there was an album because of all of these songs I created.

How different was the experience this time around?

Normally, I would write the songs, record a demo, and then go to the studio. This time I would wake up, go to the studio, and record any song; whatever the song. I didn’t know what was going to happen, and that is the most beautiful thing about these songs because one day they did not exist and the next day they are here. And that is the difference between the previous albums I created because I was recording in my living room.

V’s lead singles Mayana and Ocean have had an impressive run across Africa and beyond. What was the specific inspiration behind the songs?

Aside from the music inspiring the songs, I believe that sitting and writing the songs in front of the water played a significant role in their creation. It was something peaceful and calming, and I wanted to inject that without being explicit about it; I want the listener to feel that peace and calm in the two songs. The music truly inspired the stories, followed by the colour, calm, and lushness that only comes from being at home.

How have you embraced your African identity while staying abroad and touring internationally?

I’m African; I can’t be otherwise. Staying grounded wherever I am away from home, just remembering all the difficulties of being black anywhere else apart from home, and wanting to make the motherland proud. You always have to go about with that pride and the dignity of your continent on your shoulders. So, wherever I am, home is always with me.

You had a big show at the Koroga Festival the last time you visited Kenya. When can we expect you to make a return?

It was amazing the last time I was in Kenya! It felt like we were the Beatles; the welcome and turn-up was more than expected. I was completely amazed. I’m looking forward to coming back, and hopefully, it’ll be soon. Be sure you’ll hear it first from me.

What is your advice to young talent trying to get into the music industry with wishes to appeal to a global audience like you?

Do it because you love it, not because of the money. Always make sure you put out what you do and let your audience help you shape your sound. But one important thing that you must know is the business side of things. You must be educated on it. If that aspect isn’t taken care of, your love for music may be shattered. You must know how to read contracts and ask the right questions. Do not solely depend on your lawyer or manager; you must read contracts. You don’t have to understand the whole language in it, but read through, ask questions and it’ll help you have better comprehension. When you cover all of this, you’ll have a smooth career.