Read the title in the viral TikTok soundbite.
A common trajectory people in the spotlight share is the actualization of their hard work, consistency, resilience, and dedication as the results of the midnight oil burned in preparation for attaining their current reality.
It involves actions done as an investment to be reaped with interest in the future. In local parlance “paying your dues” to underground years behind the scenes. This is the reality regardless of whatever industry, whether in music, fashion, or entertainment, the same goes for the corporate world. Before becoming directors, there were days of humble beginnings as clerks or NYSC interns. Auditioning for movie roles or model casting, from ‘Waka Pass” to landing the supporting act and eventually the lead role.
Alternatively, it’s the studio days with the last naira, shuffling between either sticking to your dreams and shutting out the noise or taking up a 9-5 to sustain yourself financially. From the bright smiles from little recognitions to the days of filling and outpouring of fans at large venues home and abroad reciting the lyrics, not missing a beat as you watch with radiant beams and wide smiles filled with joy and happiness. In that moment, the glorified I made it moment. These full-circle moments make the unwavering resilience and hard work truly worthwhile.
This journey documents the beauty of progressing through life in stages. While growth isn’t linear and varies for different people, the captivating aspect of everyone’s story is how the dots connect, revealing the person we now admire and marvel at their exceptional achievements.
For someone who wasn’t a part of the choir, unlike many artists within and outside the Nigerian music scene, Aema has had an atypical journey. One thing she shares, probably even more than her counterparts, is her deep passion for the arts. The creative process intrigues her and is a wave she eagerly rides.
Her intentionality is evident in everything she does, from choosing her name to filling the melodies with lyrics. She understands the importance of having a supportive team that cheers you on and tries to do everything possible to help you succeed. While a handful of people might know Aema as Kold AF’s “evil twin,” others recognize her for co-writing Davido’s verse on “Kante” featuring the industry-beloved Fave.
Aema credits her musical choices to her boarding experience at Federal Girls College, Owerri. The DIY and self-care nature of that environment played a significant role in shaping her self-identity. This clearly independent and promising star attributes these experiences to how she handles her music and personal life.
Before there was “Everyday,” there was “No Place to Hide,” “DLT,” and “Free.” Even earlier, she released “Wagwan,” a dancehall track on Audiomack under the name Amah.
2023 might have brought mixed reactions; however, for Aema, it was a monumental year. It was the year she professionally set the ball rolling, marking the beginning of great things. Starting with the release of “No Place to Hide” in May 2023, she also co-wrote the 10th hit song on Davido’s “Timeless” album. She applauded the efforts of his manager, Asa Asika, and matched the energy of the fiery extraordinaire Fave. Addressing the golden question of Davido’s response, she wrote one of the verses, contributing to one of the best songs of the year.
Following the release of “No Place to Hide,” she unveiled the two-track EP titled “Alt Soul EP 1,” which includes “DLT” and “Free,” featuring Arathe Jay. The volume seemingly serves as a premonition of a continuous series. She secures her golden place within the Alt Soul genre, with her production, acapella, and dancehall switching seamlessly between gears.
During her stay at the Sony camp hosted in Ghana, Aema met Kold AF, and they previewed a track together. Her manager noticed the sonic chemistry between the two women and encouraged them to work on a record together. Kold AF, already spotlighted as one of the emerging artists to watch in 2024, made the collaboration a perfect fit.
During her interview with Wonu Osikoya, Aema spoke about her decision to take music more seriously. It was quite surprising for someone who was an outstanding student, representing her school and earning straight A’s, despite struggling with shyness. She prefers to manage her affairs away from the spotlight and stay in her own space.
She is currently adjusting to the reality of being around people and being in the spotlight. However, her team makes it easier to operate in this fame-driven music space. They alleviate the burden by acting more like friends who share the same dreams, rather than money-hungry labels.
In her Zikoko interview, she mentions meeting Kold AF, and together they released “No Pity” and “Every day,” dedicated to women and launched on March 8th. Nothing beats the music of women making music for women.
Aema’s latest release, Zeal, is her first of the year. This new track marks the start of a season of fresh music from Aema, featuring her signature blend of conscious lyrics and a bouncy feel. The intro, I See the Dedication, is lyrically charged and inspirational, reflecting her journey and the path she’s taken toward greatness.
For her forthcoming project, she teases expert production from the talented UK producer Benji Flow.
Through her discography, she explores various styles, making it premature to confine her to a particular genre. Given her dynamic personality, there is much more to anticipate in the forthcoming years and upcoming projects. She is one of the artists you can bet on for significant artistic development. In the next five years, this promise will become evident.
As she gathers fans, her music attracts a selective audience who love and are happy to be part of her unveiling to the world. This is the best outcome for an intentional artist like her. For now, we can expect to see more of her as a songwriter, with more releases under her name, genre maneuvering, and other amazing ventures.
She joins the list of women serving as formidable figures within the Nigerian music sphere, telling stories and leaving their mark on the world through their music.
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