AKAI, also known as Malakai Jones, is the rising Nigerian-American artist who is breaking barriers and closing the gap between himself and the generational diaspora. With his infectious new song, “Naija Boy,” AKAI’s voice resonates as a beacon of positivity, aiming to instill pride in one’s roots and heritage.
Born in the United States to parents with Nigerian and German ancestry, AKAI has always been drawn to the vibrant rhythms of afrobeats and amapiano. Inspired by the lack of representation for those dealing with the diaspora experience, AKAI made a conscious decision to enter the music scene himself. In June 2023, he released his debut single, “NAIJA Boy,” a powerful anthem that showcases his love for his people and reinforces the message of self-acceptance regardless of cultural origins. With his unique sound and undeniable talent, AKAI is making waves in the afrobeats scene, ensuring his enduring presence in the music industry.
Reflecting on his journey, AKAI shares his passion for creating genuine music. Recalling the creation of his first song, “Naija Boy,” he initially doubted its potential and contemplated discarding it. However, after a few weeks of deliberation, he decided to release it, and the response was overwhelming. Friends, fans, and social media followers expressed their love and appreciation for the track, validating AKAI’s artistry and confirming the emotional connection he establishes through his music.
Through his art, AKAI hopes to generate a sense of understanding and unity, urging individuals to be proud of their identities, regardless of their geographical or cultural backgrounds. He emphasizes that pride should extend beyond Nigeria or Africa, encouraging everyone to embrace their unique DNA and celebrate their heritage. AKAI’s music is a testament to the power of self-acceptance, inspiring listeners to appreciate their origins and find strength in their own narratives.
When asked about dream collaborations, AKAI enthusiastically mentions his admiration for Ayra Starr and REMA, two exceptional artists who have made a significant impact on him. This admiration is evident in the countless hours he has spent listening to their music on Apple Music. AKAI’s appreciation for their work reflects his desire to collaborate with artists who share his passion for afrobeats and who have influenced his artistic journey.
Currently, AKAI is diligently working on his debut EP, “Creation I,” a project that serves as a personal storyteller with five captivating songs. This forthcoming EP aims to illuminate AKAI’s narrative, showcasing his growth and evolution as an artist. The first release from the EP, “Naija Boy,” is already available on all streaming platforms, providing a glimpse into AKAI’s distinctive style and musical prowess.
AKAI’s musical journey began approximately five years ago when his interest in music theory sparked a desire to become a music producer. After three years of exploring this path, he made a pivotal decision to step out of the background and take the microphone himself. By conquering one of his biggest fears, AKAI embarked on a whole new chapter in his artistic career. In collaboration with his close friend RJ, AKAI stepped into the studio and created magic, setting the stage for his future success.
As AKAI, or as he humorously refers to himself, Mr. Naija Boy, he aims to bridge the gap between his identity as a Nigerian-American and his heritage. Growing up in a country where his roots may not be widely recognized, AKAI’s longing for his motherland and the profound connection he feels with Nigeria shines through his music. True to his mission, he embraces the title “Mr. Diaspora” and uses his art as a means to unite diverse cultures and reconnect with his heritage.
AKAI’s determination to stay true to himself, uplift his community, and create music with a purpose is commendable. As he continues to make waves in the music industry, his authenticity and unique perspective will undoubtedly resonate with audiences worldwide. AKAI’s journey to bridge the gap between himself and the diaspora is not just a personal mission but a reflection of the universal human experience of seeking connections and celebrating identity through the transformative power of music.
Make sure to join the incredible journey of this emerging star, AKAI. Follow him on Instagram. You can also listen to his music on Apple Music and Spotify. Don’t miss out on the captivating debut track, “Naija Boy,” which sets the tone for AKAI’s exhilarating musical career. Experience the stirring emotions and embark on this exciting odyssey.
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Streaming reigns supreme in today’s fast-paced digital world, and NotaDist has carved out a unique niche for itself in the music industry. Born in 2017, this plucky non-exclusive distribution service has been turning heads by putting artists first – a refreshing approach in an often cutthroat business.
The brainchild of music industry veterans, NotaDist emerged with a clear mission: to shake up indie music distribution. Their secret sauce? A laser focus on artist autonomy coupled with a hefty dose of human support. It’s not just about getting music out there; it’s about giving independent musicians and record labels the keys to their own success, without tying them down with pesky contractual red tape.
NotaDist’s bread and butter is its global distribution network. They’ve got connections with all the heavy hitters – Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, you name it. For indie artists dreaming of making it big, this means a shot at reaching ears from Tokyo to Timbuktu.
But here’s where it gets interesting: NotaDist isn’t just throwing artists into the deep end and wishing them luck. They’ve cooked up some pretty nifty analytics tools that give musicians the lowdown on who’s listening, where, and how often. It’s like having a crystal ball for your music career – minus the smoke and mirrors.
One thing that really sets NotaDist apart is their hands-on approach to artist support. Unlike some faceless corporations, these folks actually pick up the phone (or respond to emails, for the phone-shy among us). Got a question? They’re on it. Feeling lost in the digital music maze? They’ll be your GPS.
Now, let’s talk freedom. In a world where exclusive contracts can feel like artistic handcuffs, NotaDist’s non-exclusive model is a breath of fresh air. Artists keep their rights, their creative control, and their sanity. It’s your music, your rules – NotaDist just provides the launching pad.
But wait, there’s more! (Sorry, couldn’t resist.) NotaDist has also tapped into the goldmine that is social media monetization. Through some tech wizardry involving YouTube’s Content ID and Facebook’s Rights Manager, they’re helping artists squeeze extra pennies out of every view and like.
As the digital music landscape continues to evolve at breakneck speed, services like NotaDist are becoming the unsung heroes of the indie music world. They’re the Swiss Army knife in an artist’s toolkit – distribution, analytics, monetization, all rolled into one neat package.
Curious to learn more? Hop over to NotaDist’s website for the full scoop. And if you’re into the whole social media thing (who isn’t these days?), give them a follow on Twitter or Instagram. Who knows? You might just find the perfect partner to get your tunes out there and take your music career to the next level.
International duo Moon and Aries has carved out a unique niche in the modern electronic scene, blending genres and bridging continents. Their latest album, “Transcendence,” dropped on September 6th, offering listeners a 12-track odyssey that delves into personal growth, transformation, and life’s cyclical nature.
The pair behind Moon and Aries – Canadian vocalist and wordsmith Jordana Moon, and German composer and beat-maker Tom Aries – kicked off their musical partnership on March of 2021. It’s pretty remarkable, really. Despite the vast Atlantic Ocean and a whopping nine-hour time difference between them, they’ve managed to cook up a sound that’s not only cohesive but also strikes a chord with fans across the globe.
“Transcendence” is the third concept album from these two, following their 2022 debut “The Arrival” and 2023’s “Break the Matrix.” Each track on the new record represents a month of the year – it’s like they’ve created a musical calendar that aims to soundtrack the ups and downs of life. Pretty clever, if you ask me.
The album kicks off with “Fire Night,” a punchy track that sets the tone for what’s to come. Jordana Moon’s vocals soar over Tom Aries’ pulsing synths, painting a picture of rebirth and transformation. As you journey through the album, you’re treated to a smorgasbord of moods and styles – from the upbeat trance vibes of “Diamond League” to the laid-back reggae and trip-hop flavors in “Slow Motion.”
One thing that really stands out about “Transcendence” is how seamlessly it blends different genres. You can hear Tom’s classical piano training in those intricate synth lines, while Jordana’s vocals have this wonderful jazz and neo-soul influence. It’s like they’ve taken all these different ingredients and whipped up something entirely new and exciting.
What’s particularly impressive is how polished the production is, considering they work remotely. Each track on “Transcendence” feels carefully crafted, with attention paid to both the overall sound and the lyrics. It’s this kind of attention to detail that’s helped Moon and Aries make a name for themselves in the electronic music scene.
Thematically, “Transcendence” is all about the human experience of growth and change. You’ve got tracks like “Nothing to Lose” and “Don’t Feed the Demons” that dig into the nitty-gritty of personal transformation, while others like “A Love Revival” and “Resolutions” offer a glimmer of hope. The album wraps up with an instrumental piece, “The Affirmation Journey,” giving listeners a moment to sit back and reflect.
It’s not just about making albums for Moon and Aries, though. Their tunes have been getting airplay on radio stations across the world – we’re talking Australia, Europe, Africa, Asia, and America. Their track “Firenight” even topped the official DJ-pool charts in the US, while “The Arrival” has racked up over a million streams on Spotify. Not too shabby, right?
The duo’s unique approach to music-making, which they’ve dubbed “Melody Meets Meaning,” is front and center on “Transcendence.” It’s all about marrying catchy, electronic-driven melodies with lyrics that make you think and maybe even inspire some personal growth. Fans and critics seem to be digging it, which explains why Moon and Aries are becoming increasingly popular in the electronic music world.
Individually, Jordana Moon and Tom Aries bring their own flavors to the mix. Moon’s background in creative writing (she studied at the Vancouver Film School) comes through in her lyrics. Her musical inspirations run the gamut from jazz legends to modern trip-hop artists. Aries, meanwhile, draws from his experience in computer game music and film scores, with influences ranging from classic 80s sounds to contemporary electronic acts.
“Transcendence” isn’t just a musical journey – it’s a testament to what’s possible with remote collaboration in our digital age. Moon and Aries have shown that you don’t need to be in the same room, or even on the same continent, to create music that resonates with people.
As Moon and Aries continue to push the envelope and explore new territory, “Transcendence” stands as a significant milestone in their musical journey. Whether you listen to it front to back or cherry-pick individual tracks, the album showcases the duo’s knack for creating music that’s both emotionally charged and beautifully innovative.
If you’re keen to check out Moon and Aries’ music, you can find them on all the usual platforms – Spotify, SoundCloud, YouTube, you name it. They’re also pretty active on social media, so give them a follow on Instagram or TikTok if you want to keep up with what they’re up to. And of course, there’s always their official website for all the latest news and info.
In a recent development in the world of inspirational literature, Mimi Novic, a seasoned author and multi-talented practitioner, has brought three new titles to bookstore shelves. Novic, who wears many hats including complementary medical practitioner, psychotherapist, and host of “Secrets For An Inspirational Life” (a top 10 UK inspirational podcast), has broadened her literary offerings with “Your Life Is A Miracle The Journal,” “The Treasure Is Within You,” and a children’s book titled “Be Your Awesome Self.”
Readers have found Novic’s writings particularly resonant, especially those in search of guidance, empowerment, and comfort. Her unique approach to delving into human experiences and sharing insights is often described as both eloquent and profound. Many have come to view her books as valuable companions on the path to a more meaningful life.
Let’s take a closer look at her latest works:
“Your Life Is A Miracle The Journal” serves dual purposes as a daily journal and a self-realization guide. This book is crafted to guide readers through what Novic describes as their “miraculous nature” via a journey of self-discovery. It offers dedicated space on each page for personal thoughts, gently encouraging readers to develop greater self-awareness, resilience, and inner calm. Readers can choose between paperback and Kindle formats.
Next up is “The Treasure Is Within You,” an affirmation book designed to empower. This work aims to help readers tap into their inner wisdom and potential. Novic advocates for the use of daily affirmations as a tool to transform one’s mindset, challenge negative thoughts, and bolster self-confidence. The book’s approach is geared towards enhancing motivation and fostering a proactive attitude towards personal goals. Like its companion, this book is available in both paperback and Kindle versions.
Novic’s third recent release, “Be Your Awesome Self,” marks her entry into children’s literature. This book blends words and illustrations to impart lessons on self-acceptance, kindness, and self-belief to young readers. It’s described as a journey that encourages children to celebrate their uniqueness and cultivate a positive outlook. Novic envisions this book as a valuable resource not just for children, but for parents and educators keen on nurturing young minds.
These new titles complement Novic’s existing catalogue, which has garnered awards in the past. Her writing is known for its lyrical quality and its ability to inspire introspection and self-understanding. Recurring themes in her work include hope and the potential for personal growth.
Novic’s diverse professional background seems to inform her writing and her engagement with her audience. Her experience as a complementary medical practitioner and psychotherapist likely contributes to the holistic viewpoint evident in her books. Furthermore, her work as a voice-over artist and meditation album producer hints at a multi-dimensional approach to connecting with her audience.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Novic has demonstrated a commitment to charitable causes. This year, she was appointed as an ambassador for two charities: KidsOut and Bear Force. She has also been supporting The Prince’s Trust Charity with her work for several years, further showcasing her dedication to making a positive impact beyond her writing and speaking engagements.
Her podcast, “Secrets For An Inspirational Life,” which ranks in the top 10 UK inspirational podcasts, offers another avenue for Novic to share her insights and possibly expand on themes from her books.
In addition to her written and recorded work, Novic takes on the role of motivational speaker, sharing her message of personal growth and self-discovery with live audiences. This multi-pronged approach to conveying her philosophy aligns well with the varied formats of her recent publications.
Across all mediums, Novic’s works offer readers a unique opportunity for personal growth and self-reflection. Her books provide valuable tools and insights to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and purpose. By engaging with Novic’s literature, readers may embark on a transformative journey, unlocking new perspectives and discovering untapped potential within themselves, potentially catalyzing significant positive changes in their lives.
For those interested in exploring Novic’s latest offerings, “Your Life Is A Miracle The Journal,” “The Treasure Is Within You,” and “Be Your Awesome Self” are available in both paperback and Kindle formats through various book retailers.
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