Getting To Know… Inusa Dawuda

Getting To Know… Inusa Dawuda

His new single ‘All I Need Is To Be Loved’ is out now

by Chris Bound: July 13, 2023

Having already cemented himself as a fresh and vibrant addition to the new music scene in recent years, Ghanian singer, songwriter, saxophonist and entertainer Inusa Dawuda returns once again with his breezy new offering ‘All I Need Is To Be Loved’.

Channelling more of that warm and uplifting aesthetic he is known for, ‘All I Need Is To Be Loved’ makes for a wonderfully rich and inviting listen. With its sweet and tender atmosphere layered across his distinctive vocals throughout, he is certainly looking to brighten our day with this one.

So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has inspired him most over the years.

What was the first instrument you fell in love with?

The saxophone was the first instrument that I fell in love with. Its beautiful looks and enchanting sound instantly captured my heart and left a strong impact on me. Besides the saxophone, I also grew to deeply admire and love the bass guitar.

What kind of music did you love when you were younger?

When I was younger, I couldn’t pick just one type of music that I liked because I enjoyed many different styles. But reggae music was especially important to me because of its strong vibes and meaningful lyrics. I was also attracted to the catchy beats and heartfelt melodies of funk, soul, Afro, and highlife music. All of these genres played a big part in shaping my musical taste and making my musical journey more exciting.

What was the first album you remember owning?

When I was young, I didn’t have to buy my own albums because my dad had a lot of them, so I could borrow from his collection. But I remember a time when I started seeing a bunch of old records at flea markets, and I couldn’t resist buying a few. I got some albums by Brass Construction, with their disco hit “Movin’,” and Richie Havens’ 1980 recording of “Going Back to my Roots.” It’s interesting because in 2008, I had the amazing opportunity to perform a house version of that same song, and it was released by Subliminal Records.

What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?

If I had to pick just one song that I wish I had written, it would definitely be “Street Life” by Crusaders. This amazing song combines jazz, funk, soul, disco, and pop in a way that is truly special. Whenever I hear it, it inspires me to explore music even more, because it represents the perfect blend of contemporary craftsmanship. “Street Life” is like a priceless lesson for any musician, showing us how to create groovy evergreen that is truly captivating and beautiful.

Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?

When it comes to writing new music, I don’t adhere to any specific habits or rituals. Instead, I embrace a more spontaneous approach where I allow the creative process to unfold naturally. I find that my inspiration can arise from various sources, such as the environment I’m in and the prevailing vibes around me. By immersing myself in the moment and remaining attuned to the surrounding energy, I let the music come to me and delve into the flow of creativity.

Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?

At the moment, when I find the opportunity to fully immerse myself in music, I gravitate towards artists I have been listening to for a long time. The range of musicians I find myself drawn to is extensive, and as you may have gathered from my previous responses, their names are already apparent. I believe there is much to learn and absorb from these established artists. This is not to dismiss the talents of contemporary colleagues, but I find that this sentiment holds true for many, including the emerging generation of artists.

If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?

As a versatile crossover artist, when given the opportunity to open a show, I am drawn to collaborating with renowned musicians who have achieved remarkable success across various genres, demonstrating their wide-ranging appeal. While my list of preferred artists is extensive, I would particularly relish the chance to share the stage with the likes of Sting, Prince, Lenny Kravitz, and the Fugees, as they embody the epitome of artistic excellence and have garnered immense recognition throughout their multifaceted careers. Additionally, Akon’s compelling musical style also intrigues me, making him another compelling choice for a collaborative performance.

What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?

The most rewarding part of being a musician is the ability to transport people through my performances, regardless of their background. It’s amazing to see how music can bring people together and create a shared experience. I remember a fan once asked if I was a shaman because of the powerful effect my music had on them. It made me realise the transformative power of music and how it can transcend barriers and connect people in a unique way.

And what is the most frustrating part?

The most frustrating part of being a musician is realising that it’s impossible to be flawless in every aspect of life. It’s important to accept our human limitations. When we come to terms with this reality, our level of frustration tends to decrease significantly. As musicians, we are no exception to this truth. Simplifying our expectations and focusing on progress rather than only perfection can help alleviate frustration and allow us to enjoy the journey.

And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?

The best advice I’ve received as a musician is to always be myself, no matter how much I admire other musicians. I should embrace my own approach, sound and style instead of trying to sound exactly like someone else. Because they are the result of what I absorbed and what I am. While it’s important to be prepared, I shouldn’t wait until I feel completely ready before starting. Jazz and pop music allow for spontaneity and improvisation, so it’s okay to leave room for that in my performances.

Inusa Dawuda’s new single ‘All I Need Is To Be Loved’ is available to stream now. Watch the new video for it in the player below.

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