THE MUSICAL ODYSSEY OF ASA

PARIS-BORN NIGERIAN ARTIST ASA CREATES A MUSICAL LEGACY THAT TRANSCENDS CULTURAL CONFINES

- Anele Geqiwe, Shannon Manuel

A VERSATILE AND DYNAMIC SINGER, ASA is known for her captivating performances across multiple genres. With a unique fusion of influences that cross cultural borders, her emotive vocals and distinctive approach have garnered her acclaim not only in Nigeria, but worldwide.

WITH A COMPELLING PRESENCE ON STAGE AND A WIDE-RANGING REPERTOIRE, Asa’s artistry embodies a diverse range of experiences, stemming from her multicultural heritage: Nigerian and French.

She’s our Music and Creativity issue cover star, in collaboration with Platoon. While excited about the cover story, she says there are some nerves, only because she finds it hard to read about herself or listen to her albums.

Born as Bukola Elemide, she chose the stage name Asa (pronounced Asha) due to her curiosity-fuelled childhood wanderings from home, much to the emotional panic of her mother. An old man from the neighbourhood baptised her Asa, or “Hawk” in Yoruba (a West African language widely spoken in Nigeria).

But when you listen to Asa, you quickly realise that the pseudonym “Hawk” is strikingly appropriate, resonating with Asa’s person Asas an eccentric maverick; and just as hawks nest high in trees, she stands tall and solitary. The hawk’s piercing screech mirrors the raw intensity of her voice, and just as these majestic birds soar across vast distances, Asa’s insatiable curiosity drives her to explore uncharted territories, forever seeking what lies beyond.

She sat down with GQ to discuss her musical odyssey, her artistry, and making multi-genre music that transcends boundaries and resonates with audiences worldwide.