Abidemi Amosu, better known as Abidemisax was born in Iworo Awori Badagry, Lagos State. From a young age, he was immersed in a rich cultural environment that greatly influenced his musical journey, one that has made him a professional saxophonist, showing his talent across various countries around the world. Now in the United Kingdom, he spoke to ROTIMI IGE on his musical journey so far and aspirations.
Tell me a bit about yourself and your musical influences growing up.
I was exposed to a diverse array of musical genres. My early influences include traditional Nigerian music, deeply rooted in the rhythms and melodies of my heritage. This traditional music provided a strong foundation for my understanding of complex musical structures and emotional expression. Alongside this, I was also inspired by contemporary sounds, particularly the innovative styles of modern Jazz, Afrobeat and global contemporary music. Artistes like Fela Kuti, Dave Koz, Richard Elliot,Orlando Julius and Kirk Whalum played pivotal roles in shaping my musical outlook.
My passion for music was evident from a young age, and I dedicated myself to mastering the saxophone. This instrument became my voice, a powerful medium through which I could convey profound messages and connect deeply with my audience. Over the years, I have worked hard to blend traditional and contemporary sounds, creating a unique fusion that has resonated with listeners both in Nigeria and around the world.
Education has also been a cornerstone of my musical development. I hold a National Education Certificate in Music from Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education Otto/Ijanikin, and I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Music from the University of Ibadan. Currently, I am furthering my studies with a Master’s degree in Music at the University of Hull in the United Kingdom. This academic journey has enriched my understanding of music theory, composition, and performance, allowing me to continually refine my craft.
Beyond performing, I am passionate about using music to foster community and human connection. As a musical curator, I orchestrate events that bring people together, creating shared experiences through the universal language of music. My goal is to build stronger, more cohesive communities, using my music to uplift and inspire.
This vision of music as a unifying force has earned me a loyal following in Nigeria, and I am deeply grateful for the support and anticipation from my fans. I am excited about the future and look forward to continuing to contribute to the world of music with innovative and heartfelt performances.
Why did you decide to play the saxophone and not become a singer?
My journey to becoming a saxophonist, rather than a singer, is deeply rooted in my early experiences and the profound connection I connected with the instrument from a young age. Growing up in Iworo Awori Badagry, Lagos State, I was surrounded by a rich tapestry of cultural and musical influences. Music was an integral part of our community life, and I was naturally drawn to its expressive power.
While many of my peers gravitated towards singing, I found myself captivated by the saxophone. There was something uniquely compelling about its sound – it felt like the saxophone could express a range of emotions and stories in a way that resonated deeply with me. The instrument’s ability to convey both the joy and sorrow of the human experience through its melodic voice struck a chord with my inner self.
My decision was further solidified during my early educational years. At Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education Otto/Ijanikin, where I pursued my National Education Certificate in Music, I had the opportunity to explore various instruments and musical disciplines. It was during this period that I truly realised the saxophone’s potential as a medium for storytelling and emotional expression. The technical challenge of mastering the instrument also appealed to me, and I was eager to dedicate myself to its nuances and complexities.
The saxophone, unlike the human voice, offers a distinct and versatile sound palette. I found that through the saxophone, I could blend traditional African rhythms and contemporary jazz elements, creating a unique fusion that honored my heritage while also appealing to modern audiences. This fusion became a hallmark of my musical style and has allowed me to connect deeply with listeners both in Nigeria and internationally.
Moreover, playing the saxophone has afforded me opportunities to engage in collaborative and community-building efforts. As a musical curator, I have orchestrated events that bring people together, fostering connections and shared experiences through the universal language of music. The saxophone, with its rich and evocative sound, serves as a perfect tool for these endeavors, allowing me to bridge cultural gaps and inspire unity.
Ultimately, my choice to play the saxophone instead of becoming a singer was a natural progression of my personal interests, cultural background and the emotional resonance I felt with the instrument. It has been a fulfilling path, allowing me to express myself authentically and to contribute meaningfully to the musical landscape. The saxophone’s voice is my voice, and through it, I continue to strive towards my mission of uplifting and inspiring communities through music.
You studied music in the university and have even gone abroad to further your knowledge in music. Explain the motive?
My decision to study music at the university level and further my education abroad is rooted in a deep commitment to mastering my craft and expanding my musical horizons. Here’s why I chose this path:
Deepening my musical knowledge: From a young age, I was passionate about music and dedicated to mastering the saxophone. Formal education in music allowed me to deepen my understanding of music theory, history, and practice. At Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education Otto/Ijanikin, where I earned my National Education Certificate in Music, I gained foundational knowledge that was crucial for my development as a musician. My subsequent Bachelor’s degree in Music from the University of Ibadan provided a broader and more comprehensive perspective on various musical genres and techniques.
Enhancing technical proficiency: The saxophone is a complex instrument that requires technical precision and skill. Studying music at the university level enabled me to refine my technique, explore advanced playing methods, and understand the intricate mechanics of the instrument. This technical proficiency is essential for delivering captivating performances and pushing the boundaries of traditional and contemporary sounds.
Fostering creativity and innovation: One of my core goals as a musician is to create a unique fusion of traditional African sounds and contemporary music. Formal education has provided me with the tools and knowledge to experiment and innovate within this genre. It has also exposed me to diverse musical styles and cultural influences, enriching my creative process and helping me develop a distinctive musical voice.
Building a solid academic foundation: My academic journey is not just about performing; it’s also about understanding the theoretical underpinnings of music. This foundation is crucial for my role as a musical curator, where I orchestrate events that foster community and human connection through music. A solid academic background allows me to curate more meaningful and impactful musical experiences for my audiences.
Pursuing Excellence and Professional Growth: Studying at the University of Hull in the United Kingdom for my Master’s degree in music is part of my commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. The international exposure and access to world-class educators and resources have broadened my perspective and honed my skills further. This experience is invaluable in helping me stay at the forefront of the music industry and continuously evolve as an artist.
Inspiring others: By pursuing higher education in music, I aim to inspire others to follow their passions and pursue excellence in their chosen fields. My journey demonstrates that with dedication and perseverance, one can achieve great heights, even in fields that may not be traditionally supported or understood.
In summary, studying music at the university level and furthering my education abroad are critical steps in my journey as a musician. They have provided me with the technical skills, theoretical knowledge, and creative inspiration necessary to excel in my craft and fulfill my mission of using music to uplift and unite communities.
In summary, my goals with music are multifaceted. I seek to bridge cultural gaps, foster community cohesion, educate and inspire future generations, and contribute to social change. Through every note I play and every event I organise, I am driven by the belief that music has the power to unite, uplift, and transform lives.
What has been the reception of your music in the UK?
In the UK, my music has been well-received and positively impactful. Audiences and critics appreciate my unique fusion of traditional African sounds with contemporary elements, which resonates with those interested in world music. My performances have been praised for their emotive power and cultural bridging. Collaborations with local musicians and participation in musical events have enriched my experience and expanded my artistic horizons. Overall, the reception has affirmed my belief in music as a universal language and reinforced my commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding through my art.
Afrobeats is big now around the world. How do you intend to make your mark on the industry?
Afrobeats’ global rise is truly exciting, and it offers a remarkable platform for showcasing African musical heritage. My approach to making a mark in this dynamic industry is grounded in my unique fusion of traditional with contemporary sounds, which I believe aligns perfectly with the evolving landscape of Afrobeats.
Firstly, I plan to integrate my expertise as a contemporary saxophonist with the vibrant rhythms and melodies of Afrobeats. By blending the rich textures of the saxophone with the energetic and diverse elements of Afrobeats, I aim to create a distinctive sound that stands out in the genre. This fusion will not only highlight the versatility of Afrobeats but also introduce new auditory experiences to both existing fans and new listeners.
Additionally, I am committed to preserving and celebrating traditional African musical elements within the Afrobeats framework. My background in traditional music and my ability to seamlessly weave these elements into modern compositions will contribute to a deeper appreciation and understanding of our musical heritage. This approach will help distinguish my work in the Afrobeats scene by offering a fresh perspective while honoring our cultural roots.
Another key aspect of my strategy involves leveraging my experience as a musical curator. I plan to orchestrate and participate in events that showcase this fusion of styles, creating spaces where audiences can experience the innovative blend of Afrobeats and traditional music live. These events will not only amplify my presence in the industry but also foster community engagement and celebrate the diversity within the genre.
Furthermore, I intend to collaborate with other artists and producers who are passionate about pushing the boundaries of Afrobeats. These collaborations will allow me to explore new creative directions and reach broader audiences. By working with talented individuals across different musical disciplines, I can contribute to the genre’s evolution and ensure my mark on the industry is both significant and enduring.
In addition to live performances and collaborations, I am keen on utilizing digital platforms to share my music globally. Engaging with fans through social media, streaming services, and other online channels will be crucial for expanding my reach and building a loyal following. Through these platforms, I can connect with audiences worldwide, share my unique sound, and contribute to the global Afrobeats movement.
Overall, my goal is to blend traditional African sounds with contemporary Afrobeats, create innovative musical experiences, and foster a deeper cultural connection. By staying true to my artistic vision and embracing the global nature of the genre, I am confident that I can make a meaningful impact in the Afrobeats industry and contribute to its continued growth and success.
Tell us a bit about your kind of music. What inspires you?
Abidemisax: My music blends traditional African sounds with contemporary influences, creating a unique and engaging experience. Growing up in IworoAwori Badagry and Ado Odo, Ogun State, I was deeply influenced by the rich musical traditions of my heritage. This early exposure inspired me to merge these traditional elements with modern genres.
My formal education in music, including a National Education Certificate from Adeniran Ogunsanya College and a Bachelor’s from the University of Ibadan, has provided a strong foundation. Currently, as I pursue a Master’s degree at the University of Hull, I am expanding my musical horizons even further.
I see music as a universal language that connects people and builds communities. My performances and events aim to bring people together, using music as a tool for unity and inspiration. My goal is to create a sound that honors cultural roots while embracing contemporary innovation.
Any collaborations in sight?
Absolutely, collaborations are a key part of my musical journey, and I’m always excited about the potential to work with other talented artists. My recent collaborations have been incredibly enriching and have broadened my musical horizons significantly.
In Nigeria, I’ve had the pleasure of working with a number of remarkable artists, which has allowed me to blend traditional and contemporary sounds in innovative ways. These experiences have been instrumental in shaping my unique style and have contributed to the depth and diversity of my music.
Recently, I had the opportunity to collaborate with some amazing musicians in the UK, including Vivek Santhosh and DeeMoe. Working with Vivek, known for his incredible skills and versatility, has been particularly inspiring. His fusion of various musical genres with his distinctive approach added a fresh dimension to my work. Similarly, DeeMoe’s collaboration was a fantastic experience, as his creative input and distinct style helped push the boundaries of my music in exciting new directions.
Looking ahead, I am eager to explore further collaborations that will continue to push my artistic boundaries. I am particularly interested in working with musicians who are passionate about blending diverse musical traditions and experimenting with new sounds. I believe that such collaborations not only enhance the creative process but also foster a richer, more inclusive musical experience for our audiences.
Additionally, I am in discussions with several international artists and producers who share a vision of using music as a universal language to connect people across cultures. These potential collaborations hold promise for creating groundbreaking work that transcends traditional genres and brings together diverse musical influences.
Overall, my goal is to continue building bridges through music, and collaborations play a crucial role in this mission. I am excited about the future and the opportunities it holds for creating new, innovative music that resonates with people around the world.
How do you intend to inspire others who also play instruments like you to make a career out of it?
I aim to inspire others by leading through example, sharing my journey and the challenges I’ve overcome, and offering practical advice. I plan to foster community and mentorship, creating platforms for aspiring musicians to showcase their talents. Encouraging innovation and creativity is crucial, as is promoting continuous learning and education. By engaging with communities and demonstrating the positive impact of music, I hope to motivate others to pursue their musical passions and build successful careers.
How do you relax?
I relax by immersing myself in music, both through playing the saxophone for enjoyment and exploring new sounds. Connecting with my mentor’s music records and enjoying nature also help me unwind. Spending time with family and friends, engaging in community activities, and studying new musical theories are key parts of my relaxation routine. Traveling to new places and experiencing different cultures further helps me recharge and find inspiration.
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