Sometimes I wonder how much poorer my musical experience would be if not for that fateful night in my UK dorm room when I tuned in to Gilles Peterson on BBC Radio 1 four years ago. I love how his radio shows have and continues to expand my horizons in music, introducing me to new musical styles and artistes – usually left of centre, lo-fi music spanning jazz, soul, hiphop, electronic, experimental and everything in between.
Another gem that I discovered from his radio show is soul singer Shuanise. Born in Dallas but hailing from North London (and of Nigerian roots), this mishmash cultural background is a sufficient indicator that she is no cookie-cutter soul singer.
Many of her sounds are vaguely reminiscent to American soul queen Erykah Badu on her 2008 album, New Amerykah Part One (4th World War). Not surprising, considering that both of them are musically influenced by the late producer J Dilla. But unlike the more goddess-like demeanour of Erykah, Shuanise’s voice comes across as more earthy and genuine.
She’s no blind photocopy of Erykah Badu though, far from it. Her music is urban London soul as produced with a vibe that is unique to her and her alone. With her unique cultural background, her musical exposure from her tender years and her musical influences, you couldn’t expect anything less original . I haven’t heard many of her songs yet, but I am loving everything I hear on her myspace page- my favourite being ‘Adam’s apple’ (on her myspace page) for its mindblowing production.
My words can only do so much, it’s time to let her music do the talking. Please visit her myspace page and do give her a listen.
If you like what you hear, download the excellent ‘Masudanante Naima’ for free, available here.
And if you REALLY like her, then buy or download her debut EP, Voice of Reason.
Credits: Rhythm Incursions and Up My Alley
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