Sola Akingbola, the critically acclaimed percussionist and composer, has graced audiences worldwide with his undeniable talent. His latest project, the album “How Should I” by Sola Akingbola & The Eegun Rhapsodies, is a testament to his musical prowess and cultural exploration.
As one of the longest-standing members of the Grammy award-winning band Jamiroquai, Akingbola’s name may not be on everyone’s tongues, but his music has been in households around the globe. However, with the release of “How Should I” and its lead single “Touch My Soul” on 04/10/2024, Akingbola’s name is bound to become a household staple.
Delving into his Yoruba roots from Southwestern Nigeria, Akingbola draws inspiration from the Greek classics to create a fusion of cultures in the album’s 11 tracks. The result is a musically diverse and culturally rich project that transcends boundaries and celebrates the renaissance of Yoruba culture. “Touch My Soul” is the tour de force single that sets the album’s tone with its upbeat percussion-driven rhythm and irresistible energy.
The accompanying music video, filmed at the iconic Abbey Road Studios, is a testament to Akingbola’s dynamic and entertaining stage presence. The title track, “How Should I”, is a hauntingly beautiful collaboration with Olivier-award winning actress Sheila Atim, known for her roles in critically-acclaimed productions such as “The Woman King” and “The Underground Railroad”. Her tender vocals add a soul-stirring element to the song, which was originally written for the Royal Shakespeare Company’s 2016 production of “Hamlet”. Each track on “How Should I” tells a story of cultural identity and musical exploration, showcasing Akingbola’s versatility as a composer and performer.
From the laid-back grooves of “My Brother’s Keeper” to the contemplative and thought-provoking “Judas Kiss”, the album takes listeners on a journey of self-discovery and appreciation for cultural fusion. Released in two parts, with the second part dropping in Spring 2025, “How Should I” is a carefully curated masterpiece. Akinbola’s personal experiences growing up in London while embracing his Nigerian heritage are reflected in this album, making it his most personal work to date. In addition to his work with Jamiroquai, Akingbola’s talents as a composer have been recognized with the Best Film and TV Score BMI Award for his work on the hit CBS sitcom “Bob Hearts Abishola” for two consecutive years. His collaborations with renowned institutions such as the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre on productions like “Othello” in 2023 are a testament to his diverse musical talents.
“How Should I” is an invitation from Akingbola to join him on a musical and cultural journey. Through this album, he proves that music truly has no boundaries and can bring together different cultures and identities in a powerful and beautiful way. “How Should I” will be available on all major platforms on 25/10/2024. Don’t miss out on this masterpiece that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
