Born Bukola Elemide on 17 September 1982 in Paris, France, Asa is a French Nigerian singer and songwriter whose work blends soul, jazz, folk and Afro inspired sounds. Her parents, originally from Ogun State, Nigeria, were living in France studying cinematography when she was born, and her family returned to Lagos when she was two years old, where she was raised and immersed in both Nigerian and international music.
Growing up in Lagos, Asa’s father’s collection of records exposed her to a wide range of artists such as Aretha Franklin, Fela Kuti, Bob Marley, Nina Simone and King Sunny Adé, shaping her deep appreciation for soulful melodies and global rhythms.
Launching a Music Career in Paris
As a young adult, Asa moved back to Paris to pursue music more seriously. There, she met manager Janet Nwose, who introduced her to Nigerian producer Cobhams Asuquo. Together they crafted her distinctive sound, a blend of rich vocal delivery and thoughtful lyricism that would soon captivate international audiences.
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In 2007, Asa released her self titled debut album, Aṣa, on Naïve Records. The album featured standout singles like “Fire on the Mountain” and “Jailer.” It received widespread acclaim for its depth and emotional resonance, eventually selling over 400 000 copies worldwide.
Her debut also won the prestigious Prix Constantin Award in 2008, an honor given to the best new musical talent in France, and secured several accolades at Nigeria’s The Headies Awards.
Expanding Her Discography
Following the success of her debut, Asa continued to evolve as an artist:
Beautiful Imperfection (2010): This sophomore album showcased a mix of introspective and uplifting themes and extended her global reach.
Bed of Stone (2014): Featuring tracks such as “Dead Again” and “Eyo,” this album demonstrated her lyrical maturity and refined musicality.
Lucid (2019): This project offered introspective and personal storytelling, blending neo soul with contemporary influences.
V (2022): Her most recent studio album incorporated collaborations with artists across Africa, widening her appeal and showcasing her versatility.
Throughout her career, Asa has sung in English and Yoruba, celebrating her heritage while speaking to universal emotions and experiences.
Artistry and Influence
Asa’s music is known for its soulful voice, reflective lyrics and fusion of genres. Her songs often explore themes of love, resilience, identity, societal observation and personal growth, earning her praise from fans and critics alike. While rooted in Nigerian culture, her sound transcends borders, speaking to people from diverse backgrounds.
She has performed at international venues and festivals, sharing stages with artists across genres and drawing listeners who value authenticity and depth in songwriting.
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Legacy and Ongoing Journey
Over nearly two decades in the music industry, Asa has stood out as a distinctive global artist whose storytelling reflects not only her cultural roots but also her universal appeal. With a discography that continues to influence emerging musicians and captivate listeners across continents, her voice remains one of the most soulful and enduring in contemporary world music.
Author’s Note
This biography presents Asa as a celebrated artist whose musical journey bridges Nigerian heritage and global soul influences. From her early years in Lagos and formative experiences in Paris to her international success, Asa’s story exemplifies the power of authentic voice and cultural storytelling. Her music resonates because it blends personal depth with universal themes, making her a beloved figure in global contemporary music.
References
New Citizen: Aṣa on world stage
The Headies 2008 awards
Music Apple Profiles
