With “Yearning For Home” already proving to be a success on BET’s Soul Sessions, Siji has proven once again to be a phenomenal musical chef who always delivers despite the odd’s. We caught up with the great talent who believes that anything is possible, and had him share some memoirs from his  journey. Be inspired!

Jamati: Blessings to you and thank you for opening your doors, and for sharing with the Jamati family?

The pleasure is all mine.

Jamati: “Yearning For Home” has become a stadium for a vast group of your fans who are abroad and away from the land that birthed and nurtured them. Please share with us that specific moment which lead to the whole concept of “Yearning For Home”? What or who were you missing?

The song was written in collaboration with Santos and Parangui McGrew who form part of the ‘Yorubasoul’ collective. The collective was put together by DJ and producer, Osunlade. I hooked up with the guys during the 2004 winter music conference held in Miami. After the conference, we decided to head to Arizona where they’re both based, to do some recording. “Yearning For Home” came out of those sessions. Parangui hails from Brazil and I had always been fascinated by their music and rhythms. The fundamental concept behind the song is one of nostalgia really. Home, ultimately is where one feels like he/she most belongs, is at peace and loved. My occasional longing to return back to my childhood home in Nigeria, triggered the lyrics. And so I wrote from that perspective.

Jamati: First I have to say kudos to you. You are such a phenomenal musical chef. What different ingredients are found in your new album that are not found in your last album?

I tried to get deeper with the “Afro” thing this time around, particularly from a rhythmic perspective. I’m also singing in Yoruba and recorded with a full rhythm section together with horns on a few of the songs. Sonically it’s a far superior record to my debut album and I hope to continue in this vein.

Jamati: Would you title yourself as a jazz or an afro-soul artist?

I hate to be pigeonholed. I consider myself an artist, first and foremost. Sure my musical style contains elements of jazz, soul, gospel, blues and highlife. Whatever labels best describe this, I’m more than happy with it.

Jamati: Are you by any chance a Sergio Mendez fan/listener because, when listening to “Yearning For Home”, I coudn’t help but find this  joyful musical connection between his style of music and your chosen style for your single “Yearning For Home”?

I am familiar with Sergio Mendes’ music and I guess you can relate to the fact that the song is actually a samba hence lies the similarities.

Jamati: As opposed to being just a singer/song-writer and a producer, do you think your piano and keyboard abilities have given you an advantage musically?

Definitely. Being able to play several instruments has helped me to better get my musical ideas across.

Jamati: As a song writer is there any artist you desire to write a song for?

I’ve always loved Aretha Franklin’s voice and would give anything to hear her sing one of my compositions.

Jamati: Who paved the way for you throughout your musical journey?

I count myself fortunate to have a number of gifted and generous individuals who gave of themselves to ensure my musical path was made possible. Among them is Osunlade who was highly instrumental in having me break ground out here in the US.

Jamati: What is that one quote that has become part of your daily life?

“Anything is Possible”

Jamati: As an African artist in America in this new Obama era, what are your hope’s for artists such as yourself?

I hope we’re able to find our own unique voices in the mayhem and noise that exists out there.

Jamati: Your father opened up your debut album (a profound moment I must say). What lesson would you like to share from that experience?

My ‘Oriki” was a special gift from my father. My parents weren’t particularly fond of my musical ambitions way back then but, having completed my studies, I was allowed to pretty much pursue whatever endeavors I chose. His reciting of my birth poem on my debut album, kind of sealed the deal so to speak.

Jamati: They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Now what would you say is the way to your heart? Food or music?

I’d say music, given it feeds me heart, body, soul and mind.

Jamati: As they say in Swahili, ‘Ahsante’ (thank you), and may the universe continue to rotate in your favor.

Amin!

For more on Siji log on to his website.