We Speak Music

Christiana Igbokwe’s “Ku Saura”: A Soulful Fusion of Legacy and Innovation

Published

1 day ago

March 31, 2025

Christiana Igbokwe is already creating waves in the music world with her new single, “Ku Saura.” The song, which translates to “Listen to Me,” is a heartfelt cry for peace, unity, and understanding in a world desperately in need of healing. Drawing on the rich musical legacy of her grandmother, the late Christy Essien-Igbokwe, Christiana pays homage to the iconic “Lady of Songs” by modernizing one of her most beloved tracks, “Ku Saura Re Ni.” The result is a captivating mix of timeless African sounds and contemporary influences that will resonate with audiences of all ages.

The track is a masterful blend of musical styles, and Christiana’s youthful voice shines through with an intensity that matches the song’s powerful message. The inclusion of Ali Jita, a stalwart of Arewa music, brings an extra layer of depth to the composition, infusing it with the unmistakable rhythm and soul of northern Nigeria. Christiana’s seamless integration of traditional instruments like the Goje, an African string instrument made from natural materials, gives the song a rich spiritual resonance that ties it back to her cultural roots. This thoughtful collaboration showcases Christiana’s maturity as an artist, even at such a young age.

“Ku Saura” arrives at a poignant time, as it coincides with the Holy Month, making its message of unity even more meaningful. Christiana has shared that the song encourages people to set aside their differences and come together as one, a sentiment that aligns perfectly with the spirit of this sacred period. Her words are a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and forgiveness, especially when the world feels divided.

Despite her youth, Christiana is already a voice for change. She recently received The Diana Award for her humanitarian efforts, particularly in education, gender equality, and anti-bullying. Through her music, Christiana is not just entertaining; she’s using her platform to speak up for social justice and inspire others to do the same. “Ku Saura” is a reflection of her growing influence, merging the past with the present in a way that feels both personal and global.

As Christiana gears up for the release of her debut albums—“Happy Days,” a children’s album, and “Rebirth,” a fusion of Afro-funk and Afro-pop—there’s no doubt that she’s a rising star in the African music scene. “Ku Saura” is a shining example of her potential, blending rich heritage with a modern twist, and it sets the stage for what is sure to be an extraordinary career in music activism.

We Speak Music

Etherdene’s “Forsaker” Captures the Power of Letting Go

Published

34 minutes ago

April 1, 2025

Philomena Marie

Etherdene’s ‘Forsaker’ is a revelation in both sound and sentiment. The track marks a new chapter in her career, blending the vulnerability of heartbreak with the resilience of moving on, all wrapped in an electrifying package of synth-pop and indie-pop. The result is a song that is both deeply personal and universally relatable, a cathartic journey that encourages listeners to let go and rise above their challenges.

At the heart of ‘Forsaker’ is Etherdene’s exploration of emotional struggle and the painful yet liberating act of letting go. Drawing from her own experiences with the end of a professional partnership, Etherdene’s lyrics are a raw and powerful expression of inner conflict. The line, “Brand new member in the club of quitters, the uniform compliments my eyes,” encapsulates the complex emotions of giving up, flipping the narrative on its head to reveal the strength in choosing to walk away.

‘Forsaker’ is a triumph. Etherdene’s decision to incorporate synth bass arps brings an air of 80s nostalgia while keeping the track fresh and forward-thinking. The electric guitar work from Cory Clark adds a layer of dynamism to the song, complementing its mood perfectly. However, it’s the drums – played by Warren van Wyk – that truly elevate the track, infusing it with energy and warmth that feels almost magical.

What sets ‘Forsaker’ apart is its empowering message. Etherdene isn’t merely recounting a painful experience; she’s showing us the strength that comes from letting go of something that no longer serves you. It’s a message of courage and self-love, encouraging listeners to prioritize their emotional well-being over the fear of walking away from something that seems promising but ultimately isn’t right.

‘Forsaker’ is yet another example of Etherdene’s impressive versatility as an artist. From her early days in the Afrikaans band Kaktus to her current solo career, she has continually pushed the boundaries of what indie-pop can be. With ‘Forsaker’, she’s taken an emotional experience and turned it into a musical triumph that’s as empowering as it is catchy. This track is bound to resonate with anyone who’s ever had to make the difficult decision to walk away – and Etherdene’s ability to capture that moment in song is nothing short of remarkable.