We are thrilled to bring you an exclusive interview with the exceptionally talented Azul Kechi, the talented Nigerian-British singer-songwriter who is making waves in the music industry. With her intoxicating new single, ‘Temporary Love,’ and the highly anticipated release of her debut album, ‘Celestial Love,’ Azul Kechi is capturing the hearts of listeners worldwide.
Azul’s musical journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Her previous singles, ‘Highs & Lows’ and ‘Fool Me Once,’ garnered significant attention, earning support from influential platforms like BBC Radio 6 Music, Clout, BBC Radio London, and Jazz FM. Her unique and fresh sound, blending organic instrumentation with modern R&B-soul-pop elements, has set her apart in the industry.
In this interview, we delve deeper into Azul Kechi’s musical approach and explore the inspiration behind her latest single, ‘Temporary Love.’ Azul shares her thoughts on how the track reflects the uncertainty and changes she experienced during the lockdown, using metaphors that resonate with audiences on a profound level.
Drawing inspiration from iconic artists like Betty Davis and Lauryn Hill, Azul Kechi infuses her music with a rich and soulful quality that stems from her own life experiences. Her sound has already garnered a dedicated following, with support pouring in from BBC Radio 6 Music, Jazz FM, BBC Radio London, Amazing Radio, and Spotify Editorial playlists, including New Music Fridays, Fresh Finds UK & IE, and Chill Rnb 2022.
As Azul Kechi prepares for the release of her debut album, ‘Celestial Love,’ the anticipation is palpable. She has received glowing reviews and recognition from Clout and Conversations About Her, further solidifying her status as a rising star in the industry. Her talent and authenticity continue to shine through with each release, captivating audiences worldwide.
Join us as we delve into the mind and artistry of Azul Kechi, a remarkable artist who is redefining the boundaries of contemporary music. Through her music, she invites us to explore the depths of her soul and connect with our own emotions. Get ready to embark on a captivating journey with Azul Kechi and experience the magic of ‘Celestial Love.’
Congratulations on your latest single. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your latest single, ‘Temporary Love’?
‘Temporary Love’ was created at a time during lockdown when things felt super uneasy, and as you can say ‘Temporary’! Things were changing all the time, and I didn’t know what would happen in the future. I feel like I have a very good sixth sense, and that my gut feelings are always correct. Whether it’s relationships, career moves, or just day-to-day life I can always sus out what is best for me very instantaneously. In ‘Temporary Love’ I can tell that there is a person who has come into my life that isn’t willing or committed enough to be there for the long term, even though they may not know it yet, on trusting my instincts I can see. I’m someone who values loyalty and integrity, so a ‘Temporary’ relationship is an immediate no-go for me.
How has your musical style developed since your earlier releases, ‘Highs & Lows’ and ‘Fool Me Once’?
‘Highs & Lows’ was one of the first songs I wrote, and my skills have definitely developed since then, mainly from confidence and practice. I worked with the same producers, Eraserhood Sound, through all of these songs, and furtherly in my upcoming album, and this was very special as we got to grow and develop this project, the sounds, and the themes together. It has come such a long way! I’m so excited to make more music with them and experiment, as with every song we come up with something even more
interesting and different.
What do you hope listeners will take away from your upcoming debut album, ‘Celestial Love’?
I hope to take them on a journey of self-discovery, fuelled by cosmic energy and lyrical prowess. It tells a story, and it’s a story that I’m sure some people can relate to. I want them to experience each song individually at first, but then after listening to the whole album they can see how each song is a puzzle piece that fits into the wider album, each song contributing as a chapter to the story.
How do you incorporate your personal experiences into your music?
My personal experiences literally are my music! Each song translates directly into a time in my life when I was going through something, or felt a certain type of way. My music is fuelled by emotion and experience, which is why I think a lot of it connects with people. Without personal experience or emotion,
I wouldn’t be able to write songs or perform them as well.
You have gained support from a variety of media outlets, including BBC Radio 6 Music and Jazz FM. How has this recognition impacted your music career?
It has been a massive boost. Knowing and seeing that other people appreciate and are vibing to your music enough to want to play it and promote it, is a very special thing. Especially from such notable media outlets. With art and music, it is very subjective, and you never know what the reaction is going to be like from other people. So when my songs are shared in this way, it is very exciting. You know you’re doing something right!
Who are your biggest musical influences, and how have they influenced your sound?
My influences range sporadically. The iconic rappers of the west coast, like Dr.Dre, Tupac Shakur, N.W.A, and Kendrick Lamar have definitely been great inspirations in their stories, their pioneering, and their sound. Artists like Nina Simone will always have a special place in my heart too, you cannot compare her to anyone! She was confident, she was strong, and she was powerful. Her iconic voice is so unique and cannot be replicated. These artists built so much from so little and they have inspiring stories as well as music.
What challenges have you faced as a Nigerian-British singer-songwriter, and how have you overcome them?
For me it was confidence. From a young age, I was always extremely shy, and even though I believed in myself and knew I had what it took to be an artist, my confidence was my worst enemy. But that’s something that changed with time, and anyone that meets me now would never believe that I used to be so quiet and reserved. But my passion for music pushed me to get out of my comfort zone and put myself out there.
Can you tell us about your creative process when writing and producing music?
For me, it has to just be natural. I have to let the music speak to me first and foremost. Without this, I don’t connect in the same way. The sounds of instruments speak a million words, and I just let them guide me. That’s how I wrote ‘Celestial Love’, and it allowed me to build a journey through music and the way it connected with me completely guided me through the writing process.
What can fans expect from your live performances, and do you have any upcoming shows or tours planned?
They can expect a show for sure… I’ve always been so excited to perform my songs live, and I can’t wait for people to see them come alive in live performances.
Lastly, what message do you hope to convey through your music?
To be yourself. Always stay true to who you are no matter what, embrace your differences, and own them. That’s your power
