Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series featuring San Francisco-based independent jazz artist, vocalist, composer, and recording artist Eki Shola.
In this episode, we discuss her captivating 2024 album Kaeru and the remarkable life experiences that have shaped her music and artistic vision.
Recorded primarily in Japan with an exceptional group of local musicians, Kaeru represents Eki’s fifth album and continues her unique blend of jazz, global influences, storytelling, and deeply personal expression. The project reflects both her musical curiosity and her ability to transform life’s challenges into meaningful art.
Born in London to Jamaican parents and raised in a musical Family, Eki later emigrated to the United States in 1987. Her path as a recording artist gained momentum in 2016 when personal Grief inspired the release of her debut album, Final Beginning. The following year, after surviving the devastating 2017 Sonoma County wildfires, she found an even deeper commitment to creating music that speaks to healing, resilience, and transformation.
We discuss Kaeru, recording in Japan, creativity, overcoming adversity, artistic evolution, independent music, jazz influences, and the experiences that continue to shape her journey.
This is a fascinating conversation with a truly original voice in contemporary independent jazz.
Get the album:
Kaeru on Bandcamp
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