Represent Interview: SiJi
Anyone old enough to shake it on a deep-house dancefloor round the mid-noughties in Jozi will no doubt remember the tender dance hit “Feels Like…nothing I have ever kno-oh-ohwn…”. We can put those handhigh moments down to the stirring vocals that had us all smooching in mid-beat, forgetting work the next day and any other silly responsibilities… Well now is the time to put a face to the latenight blame, meet SIJI: As you know, your track Feels Like mixed by Osunlade was a massive hit in South Africa a few years back (even Editorista has the vinyl!), it’s one of those songs that transports us to a good summertime feeling, being young and free in a changing ‘everything-is-possible’ South Africa. So obviously we are delighted to hear that you’ve got an entire album coming out, no doubt music-lovers all over Africa and the world will embrace your new tracks. Tell us more. SIJI – The new album “ADESIJI” was released out here (US) in November last year and we’ve had a lot of positive feedback from it. It‘s not too far of a departure from my debut album, ‘God-given’ but it has a more cohesive sound to it and I’ve incorporated a great deal more of my African influences and vibes into the sound. Rep: I watched your video clip “yearning for home” and it resonated with me quite strongly as a born-and-bred African who is currently not living in Africa. Before we get into this, would you mind sharing with us a bit about your youth and your journey. Your British accent hints that you may have grown up in the UK for a while? Where is Siji from? SIJI – I was born in the London to Nigerian parents, both of whom headed back to Lagos upon completion of their studies taking my brother and I along with them. Growing up in Nigeria had a tremendous impact on my outlook and growth. I returned back to London in the 80’s to further my education and discovered music. I left the UK at the turn of the century to try things out in the Big Apple and haven’t looked back since. I love the vibe out here in New York, the freedom, the boundless energy, the mix and variety of cultures from around the world….. but I have a nagging feeling that it’s about time I start to look homeward (Nigeria). There’s a generational change taking place on the continent and I’d love to be a part of the new wave of returnees making a difference that counts. Rep: In the video you play the keyboards/piano, tell...
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