Dominican-American Nuwamba, the Dallas native who has uplifted many souls worldwide since the early 90’s, releases his new album ‘Love Ase’, and presents his feature single ‘To The Light.’ The track is about Nuwamba’s acknowledgement of the blessings in his life and the pressures of all the blessings coming too quickly. 

When talking about the track, Nuwamba says “I hope this song announces the awakening one has, as self awareness begins. illuminating the focus required to maintain balance in life; encompassing food and nutrition to physical health and overall wellness. Defining the clarity of light and dark the known and the unknown, obtaining all without fear and knowing they are necessary to experience a virtuous life.”

His sound is inspired by an eclectic style of music; by fusing African drumming, Latin rhythms and hip hop beats with indie soul R&B vocals. Thanks to his debut album ‘Above the Water’, Nuwamba was named “The Best Hip Hop and R&B Artist of the year 2005” by the Ft. Worth Weekly.

Tell us about the story of your act:

My  latest release is a Homage to Love noted in the title “Love Ase.” The meaning of Ase is of Yoruba origin translating to “so be it”  or the power to perceive and create change that exists in all things. 

What is the message behind your art? 

 My lyrics explore the commitment and lack thereof as related to all seven types of Love : Eros / romantic, Philia / Brotherly or friendship, Ludus / playful,  Storge / unconditional familiar Philautia / self- love Pragma / intimate commitment  Agápe / empathetic or universal love.

What are some sources of inspiration for your lyrics and storytelling?

A focused daily meditation and consistent routine of cultural perspectives grounded in faith; accommodates clarity of mind and body thus I’m literally narrating my life travels.

Who is an artist that you look up to more than others today?

As a pioneer I only look up to heavens and marvels of the earth or ancestors for guidance.

All time favorite record?

Marvin Gaye – Whats going On

Tell us about your latest release and how it came about:

This album artfully offers comforting guidance and hope commonly found in the early beginnings of R&B Soul Music. The use of actual instruments in the production combined with the electronic digital sounds commonly used today offers a soothing worldly sound.  I simply wanted to share the expressions that I hear within myself;  similar to the comforting music that I grew up listening to.

You seem to be fusing several musical genres. What inspires your sound?

By broadening musical and vocal arrangements the classification of  my sound  goes beyond  Neo -Soul fusing it with Jazz, Funk and even Afrobeat. Thus continuing the journey of self exploration offers great comfort;  ultimately challenging myself to see what else lies within motivates me.

What excites you the most about what you do?

The Joy of creation and the fulfillment of knowing my children and grandchildren  will have a chance to enjoy  the world from the  perspective of my generation.  

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

On the same road toward continued enlightenment and self mastery.

Your style is very original and elaborate. How do you take care of your aesthetics?

The greatest gifts  in life are free, thus we must stop to notice and value those things first. Meditation, exercise and conscious moderation with regards to nutrition and earthly  pleasures guides my daily efforts.  

What was the most daunting moment in your career so far?

Nothing really intimidates me.  Once a being is able to see things for what they are rather than what we want them to be, humility and grace begin to flow naturally allowing  things to simply be as they are.  This provides the clearity  to take the next steps toward your goals rather than constantly speaking and seeking a dream.  Someone once said “the voyage of a thousand miles begins with the first step.” So I  keep on moving with no fear and more knowledge and apply the wisdom along the way to possibly enjoy another day.

What is the best advice you’ve ever gotten?

When you master an Art it becomes a reflex thus master yourself first  seek the kingdom within.

Where do you think the next game changer will be in the music industry and entertainment scene?

I really have no clue!