Abiodun breaks free on solo debut

The album sees the former member of defunct German group Brothers Keepers working in the Afrobeat, soul, funk and rock genres in English, pidgin and Yoruba.

"I consider myself a commuter and traveller in the world of music and culture," Abiodun told Music In Africa. "The absorbed rhythms and sounds reflect in my music. I love to fuse musical styles and genres in a natural way."

Besides his place in Brothers Keepers, Abiodun has released two solo albums under the name Don Abi. He has also worked as a producer with a selection of acts including BANTU, Maceo Parker and Gregory Isaacs. "In 2011, I decided to focus more on my label, Ajazco Records, along with my career as a teacher in the field of performing arts and cross-cultural exchange."

Five years later, he decided it was time to head to the studio. "I felt the need to get back onstage and relaunch my career as a musician," he said. "It took me two years to produce and record Break Free. It was all done independently with musicians from my newly formed band, The Ajazcorock, with all of its members based in Cologne, Germany."

Abiodun's new collection of songs "revolves around topics such as personal growth, self-realisation, spirituality and collective empowerment – pointing out corruption, social injustice and environmental issues".

Some of his influences include Marvin Gaye, Bob Marley, Fela Kuti and African folklore, "without losing touch with the current sounds and vibes of this era".

Asked about his plans following the album release, Abiodun said next year would see him perform songs from Break Free in Nigeria.

"I also plan on working on new material with musicians from Nigeria. My major focus is to promote the album and tour with the band in 2019. We already have two singles with videos out and two more are yet to be released. My focus now is to present my music to a global audience and build my brand as Abiodun," he said.

Buy or stream Break Free here.