Hello, I’m wordsofAzia, a musician dedicated to blending traditional Ivorian sounds with contemporary global influences. My latest single, “Oyè Wossô,” embodies this fusion, exploring themes of resilience, hope, and cultural pride.
Inspired by a powerful phrase from my mother, “Oyè Wossô,” meaning “he has risen” in Bhété, serves as a reminder that there’s always hope for renewal, no matter how tough times get. During the recording, I invited my mom to sing traditional chants from my village, creating a beautiful connection that bridged generations. Her voice harmonized with mine with modern production, celebrating community and heritage.
I produced this song with the intention to blend traditional African rhythms with jazz elements, I asked Richard Olatunde Baker to add some percussions, while doublebass player Keïna Etenor added soulful riffs that elevated the emotional impact of the track.
This song not only honors my roots but also speaks to a modern, international audience. I hope “Oyè Wossô” inspires listeners to feel hope and strength, regardless of whether they understand the Bhété lyrics. It marks a significant milestone in my journey as an artist and invites curiosity about Ivorian culture.
Turning to my previous release, “Lagô,” this song delves into themes of spirituality, cultural identity, and divine connection. “Lagô,” which means “God” in Bhété, takes listeners on a deeply personal and spiritual journey. It’s a narrative of heritage, where the connection between mother and daughter mirrors a deeper connection to God and self.
The track features an extraordinary vocal sample from my mother, Yao Rose, a revered singer in Côte d’Ivoire. Her hauntingly beautiful plea, “God save me,” anchors the song, weaving together themes of vulnerability and transcendence. My mother’s voice is more than a feature; it’s the spiritual foundation of the piece, embodying a journey that begins with her wisdom and passes through me as her daughter.
The accompanying music video, shot in Paris, is a visual celebration of Bhété culture. Directed by the visionary Cuban filmmaker ShapeofArt and featuring intricate set designs by La Perle Ocre, the video symbolizes the transmission of spiritual and cultural wisdom.
From the traditional Djembé drums that have been passed down in my family to the iconic Bissa and elephant masks, every element reflects the richness of Ivorian heritage. The elephant, as Côte d’Ivoire’s national symbol, emphasizes the song’s connection to identity and tradition.
What makes “Lagô” particularly special is the innovative use of my own voice as a layered instrument, creating a haunting, icy synthesizer effect. This experimentation allowed me to bring my sound closer to its essence—raw, authentic, and deeply personal. The lyrics wrestle with the tension between human frailty and divine strength, a tug-of-war I sought to portray through the interplay of traditional rhythms and modern electronic textures.
“Lagô” and “Oyè Wossô” stand as pillars in my artistic journey, blending the ancient and the modern while exploring universal themes. My music is a celebration of Ivorian culture and a testament to the resilience and creativity that comes from honoring one’s roots while embracing the new.
Each song, each note, and each lyric is an invitation to connect—with yourself, with others, and with the stories that make us who we are. I’m so grateful to share these journeys with you, and I look forward to continuing to expand this dialogue with more releases and performances.
To those who haven’t listened to my music before, wordsofAzia is a project that bridges the gap between traditional Ivorian music and contemporary global influences. My music weaves together soulful melodies, vibrant African rhythms, and jazz influences, creating a unique sonic sound. Lyrically, I explore themes of identity, resilience, and cultural pride, often incorporating my native Bété language.
As I continue to explore the intersection of traditional Ivorian music and modern sounds, you can expect more collaborations and an upcoming album that further develops these themes. My music aims to move your body, touch your heart, and open your mind to new cultural experiences. Through each note and lyric, I strive to honor my heritage and inspire others on their journeys.
Listen to “Oyè Wossô” below and stream it everywhere else here.
