There are very few out there today I would call artists for the ages – you know, musicians whose work touches multiple generations, from the young to the mature.  But when I heard my Uncle sing along to Asa’s ”Jailer” a few weeks ago – and not miss a single beat or word - I figured: Asa is one of those artists.

Now my Uncle isn’t old (in his mid 50s) but I was still a little shocked when he started grooving to Asa over dinner.  We were at my favorite Lebonese restaurant in Lome -  L’abeille d’or (The Golden Bee) – and the live band began playing some of  Asa’s hits. Soon as they started playing, Uncle was singing along, bopping his head, snapping his fingers and enjoying the music.  I was so surprised I almost choked on my humus!

If  you aren’t already familiar with Asa, I am sure you will be soon. People say that her music is a mix between Fela Kuti, Bob Marley and India.Arie.  While undeniably some of the most amazing people to be compared to, I feel like Asa is building a table of original work that makes her distinct and unique.  Soon, you won’t need the comparisons – you’ll simply hear the music and know it’s her.

Check out the videos ”Jailer” and “Fire on the Mountain below:

PopWrap did a great interview with Asa – check that out here.  As did Afrobeat, which highlighted Fela’s influence on her music.   If you aren’t sure whether to cop the album, check out Pelumi’s review here. And finally, for her Bio and news about her, visit her official website.