Get Familiar: Muva Of Earth
Interview by Passion Dzenga | Photography by Violette Esmeralda | Styling by Lee Stuart
Get familiar with muva of Earth, an alternative jazz singer and ascending soulstress from the tribe 'Crown of Ọṣun' in Yorubaland, Nigeria. Born and raised in the vibrant city of London, muva of Earth's music is a fusion of contemporary sounds and traditional African rhythms, creating a sound that is both unique and deeply rooted in her heritage. Inspired by musical legends such as Sun Ra, Sade, and Fela Kuti, muva of Earth has developed her own style, which is a reflection of her ever-evolving being. In this interview, we'll delve deeper into muva of Earth's inspirations, creative process, and what it means to be an ascending soulstress in today's world. So, let's dive in and get to know muva of Earth.
Can you tell us about your journey as a singer and how you got into alternative jazz music?
Hmm, I got into it as an enthusiast of sound. I love to sing and play with my voice. It’s my route to heaven. I love the feeling of chanting and harmonizing with nature's energies and expressing the emotions I feel inside. I feel so grateful to sing, dance and perform every day. Every day is an opportunity to experiment, and our unique thoughts are the route to creativity.
Your music is known for blending African and Western sounds. How do you incorporate your cultural heritage into your music?
I would say it's quite natural. Earth is where I come from; it's my home. I am an Earthling. The beauty of the life we live inspires me every day. There is an unlimited amount of beauty to be reached; we just gotta open our eyes to see it.
Can you discuss your creative process for writing and recording new music?
First, I gotta live it. Then I process it, reflect, maybe write it down. Then I embrace it, I sing it! There then becomes a time when I fall in love with it. I am constantly humming and dancing to it. Then I use my courage and share it. I perform it to you all. With intention, I then record it. Then when the time aligns, I release it to the world.
Your lyrics often address social and political issues. How do you use your music as a platform for activism and advocacy?
By being me. In this life, there will always be challenges, conflicts, and struggle; let’s not ignore that. Vulnerability and true connections are gifts to be embraced. Don’t ever be afraid to do you. Internal first. I sing my truth, and when others connect, I am grateful for that connection we share. That’s where the magic is at. It's there to be embraced.
Can you talk about a specific song or album that holds a special place in your heart and why?
‘Lovin You’ by Minnie Riperton, ‘Dreams’ by Solange, ‘Didn’t Cha Know’ by Erykah Badu & J Dilla, and ‘Love from the Sun’ by Dee Dee Bridgewater.
‘Didn’t Cha Know’ feels honestly like my life story. ‘Dreams’ too, I relate to every word. ‘Love from the Sun’ is a beautifully sung praising of nature and life, and ‘Lovin you’ is, to me, one of the most beautiful songs ever written.
I’ve actually sung all these songs at my shows. I love ‘Devotion’ by Tirzah and ‘Bart Simpson’ by Princess Nokia too.
Your performances have received critical acclaim both in Nigeria and abroad. Can you describe a particularly memorable performance you've given?
Opening for Miss Badu last year with all my friends and family, singing my song ‘High’ - there was a moment while hitting the highest note where my spirit left my body and I ascended. I felt the love from all my loved ones here and all my loved ones before me. All the performances I have shared have been uniquely special. Under the Virgo full moon in Italy was also very mystical.
How do you approach collaborations with other artists, and what do you look for in a creative partner?
Someone inspiring, daring, unafraid, and patient. From what I know, I work great with Leos, Cancers, Virgos, Aries, and Geminis.
How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance, especially given the demands of touring and recording?
I do my best. It's important to schedule rest and to reflect on your actions. I ask myself questions like, ‘Am I having fun? / Am I working too much? / am I thinking of others? ‘ By the way I answer, I know whether my current routine needs to change.
