Exclusive Interview with Ase Odin

Artist Spotlight: Ase Odin

“No Wahala” means “no trouble,” and Nigerian-American artist Ase Odin embodies that philosophy in every note of his vibrant new single. A fusion of Afrobeats, reggae, R&B, and pop, the track is a rhythmic celebration of resilience, connection, and the universal quest for peace amidst life’s chaos.

Our conversation with Ase Odin takes us inside the mind of a creative powerhouse — and what continues to inspire them.

BH Review: Who are your biggest musical influences?

Ase Odin: The list includes: My Dad, Fela Ransom Kuti, Sunny Ade, Sir Victor Uwaifo, Sunny Okosun, Ebenezer Obey, Miriam Makeba, Jimmy Cliff, Bob Marley, Toots and the Maytals, Dennis Brown, James Brown, Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, Billy Ocean, Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles, Pink Floyd, to name a few.

BH Review: Who was your first major musical mentor, and what did you learn from them?

Ase Odin: My first musical mentor was my dad. He was a member of the local police band in Abeokuta, Nigeria. He played wind instruments like the Saxophone, Trombone, Trumpet, and Tuba. He loved his instruments and meticulously took care of them. He practised over and over again. I learned how important it was to love what you do and to be passionate about it. I also learned to develop a strong work ethic for consistency and commitment.

BH Review: How do you handle a song idea that doesn't fit into your current project?

Ase Odin: I will schedule a time for the song, proactively listen to it during my walks and drives. I will research the associated genre and my predecessor's style of harmonic progression.

BH Review: Are there any symbols or recurring motifs in your work that hold special meaning to you?

Ase Odin: Yes, insight into the people of the continent of Africa and developing countries: the political instability and upheaval, and the persistent suffering of the ordinary people.

BH Review: How did the process of creating your latest project differ from your previous work?

Ase Odin: Better resources, availability of up-to-date studio, and a small team of diverse creative ideas

BH Review: How do you continue to improve your musical skills and knowledge?

Ase Odin: Always going back to the basics, creating from events, trauma, life experiences, and letting it flow through my imagination, at the least expected places.

BH Review: How do you stay connected with your fans and build a loyal following?

Ase Odin: Staying true to my inspiration for authenticity and growing and evolving with my fan base. I am new to the power of communication, the process, and the rapid delivery that social media enables. I maintain an open line of communication and collaborate with experts to ensure a prompt and effective response time for my fans.

BH Review: Can you give us an example of a song where the lyrics were particularly challenging to write?

Ase Odin: The lyrics in my song "Mama, mama" were challenging for me to write. In most developing countries, women are like second-class citizens, only meant to be seen and not heard; they have no voice! Mothers endure so much and selflessly sacrifice their fundamental essence of living for the sake of their children.  In my song "Mama, mama", you could feel the deep emotions in my lyrics and my voice to say "Thank you, and I love you" to my mother.

BH Review: What are some of the most important lessons you've learned as a musician so far?

Ase Odin: Two lessons I have learned so far: (1) your talent, (2) the music business. Your talent accounts for approximately 30%, and the music business for 70%.

BH Review: Can you tell us about a particularly memorable fan interaction or story that stands out in your mind?

Ase Odin: I was getting off work at the end of my shift, and I saw a group of nurses walking towards their cars in the parking lot; one of them ran towards me and asked, "Do you make music?" I said yes, I do; "Are you Ase Odin?". " Yes, I am", I nodded. She said, "I am working with a mega music star." I stepped in, "I'm just starting; I released my first single 3 months ago, and I hope to get there someday." However, I was thrilled and delighted that my music journey had taken off!