Shola Emmanuel is a talented saxophonist and musician from Nigeria. He has become one of the most sought-after live performers in his country and beyond, with a unique sound that blends jazz, Soul, and African music.
Emmanuel’s musical journey began at an early age when he learned to play the recorder in primary school.
He continued to develop his skills on the clarinet and then the saxophone, inspired by the likes of Charlie Parker and John Coltrane. However, Emmanuel wasn’t content with just playing traditional jazz. He wanted
to infuse his music with the sounds of his Nigerian heritage, incorporating rhythms and melodies from the Yoruba and lgbo cultures.
This fusion of jazz, soul, and African music resulted in Emmanuel’s unique sound, which he describes as “Afro-Jazz.”
He has released two albums to date, both of which have received critical acclaim. His debut album, “A Journey to Jazz,” was released in 2018 and featured original compositions and covers of jazz classics, such as Duke Ellington’s “In a Sentimental Mood.” The album was described by Jazz FM as a “triumphant debut” and was selected as one of the Top 10 Jazz Albums of 2018 by Bandcamp.
Emmanuel’s latest album, “Lost but Found,” was released in 2020 and takes his Afro-Jazz sound to new heights. The album features collaborations with a diverse range of musicians, including Nigerian vocalist Yinka Davies and jazz guitarist Mark Lettieri. The
album’s title track is a hauntingly beautiful composition that showcases Emmanuel’s virtuosic saxophone playing.
In addition to his work as a musician, Emmanuel is also a music educator and mentor. He is the founder of the Afro-Jazz Education Foundation, a non-profit organization that aims to promote the development of African music and jazz in Nigeria. The foundation provides music education and performance opportunities to young musicians, with the aim of developing the next generation of Afro-Jazz artists.
Emmanuel’s music is a testament to the power of cultural fusion. By blending jazz with African rhythms and melodies, he has created a sound that is both familiar and new. His music speaks to the universal language of music, transcending borders and cultural differences.
With his unique sound and passionate
commitment to music education, Shola Emmanuel is a rising star in the world of jazz and a true ambassador of Afro-Jazz.
Happy to have witnessed Shola’s humble beginnings as a session musician a.k.a SholaSax on the Abuja circuit circa 2004, through 2011 by which time he was conducting his own Ochestra.
Shola Emmanuel is a true testament to dedication, perseverance and excellence.
Happy Birthday to you on this day 14th April, 2023 and wishing you best blessings at all times.
An Investment in Education 