Nneka

“I do it in a sweet way,but I sing to speak the truth." 

                                                                               -Nneka

    The truth is often a bitter pill to swallow but Nneka's soulful voice sweetens the taste. It is rare to find a musician so dedicated to the encouragement and enlightenment of her people. With so much to say, Nneka's music is totally about the message rather than entertainment. 

Born of Nigerian and German parents, she has lived in both worlds, travelling to and fro from Warri, Nigeria (oil city) and Hamburg, Germany. The reason that Nneka is unique as an artist is that she is fearless in confronting  the social and political issues concerning African people. Through her lyrics she urges Africans to take responsibility for the continent's future and stop blaming their colonial past for their problems. A strong message for her people, that drips with truth at every word.

Her music promotes love, hope, truth, optimism and freedom. It's relevance and depth and emotion demands attention. 

"Her music is a gift to the world, pulsing, relevant, powerful, deep. This is music that will grab your attention and keep it! The next Lauryn Hill." 

-Perez Hilton

So intent on making a difference in Africa she composes her songs like medicine; bitter to the taste, but but necessary and beneficial to the body. Her hope; to inspire Africans to change and create a better Africa. 

No fuss, no frills, distractions or embellishments, her performances are simply pure, raw, emotive and reflective. One cannot help but be captivated by the essence of her vision for a better Africa; and wonder if at all we have the same vision.

Nneka performing 'Shining star'  live at Komedia, Brighton.

Photography and video courtesy of Tolu Buraimoh.