"Songwriting is neglected in Nigeria"

jonathan

March 10, 2015 2:06 PM

Known for her electrifying stage presence and strong live performances, the neo-soul, afro-pop singer and songwriter has spoken out about the poor state of songwriting in Nigeria.

Neo-soul singer Lami Philips has spoken out about the dismal state of songwriting in Nigeria.

Lami was born in Chicago, and moved to Nigeria at an early age. She is known for her electrifying stage presence and strong live performances. She captured the heart of her fans with her impressive debut album 'Intuition'.

In a chat with African Music Law, the singer talks about the poor state of songwriting in Nigeria, naming a select number people who engage in it.

“Songwriting is something I think we’ve taking for granted a lot in Nigeria. We still have some people such as Cobhams, Timi Dakolo, Omawumi, Asa…people who actually sit and really process when they are writing.” She said.

Lami is a firm believer of songwriting, and she further revealed her personal reason for writing her songs herself. She cites a need for connection as the sole reason why she will rather write her lyrics herself.

“One of the things I really get a lot is ‘Lami why don’t you let people write your songs. It’s not a thing of arrogance or anything like that." Lami explains. “My thing is, I take a lot of pleasure from performing live, I’m sure you know.”

“And if I’m going to perform something, I have to have an experience, I have to know what’s happening when I was writing this song. What was I trying to communicate through the lyrics of the song?”

Lami further expressed hope in our music terrain, she is optimistic about the art of songwriting, declaring her faith that Nigeria will celebrate the art of songwriting.

“And I’m hoping that we get to start celebrating the art of songwriting here in Nigeria”

jonathan