Nigerian-born U.S-based jazz music exponent, Douyé Youduba, has been nominated for a South African-organised jazz music awards, Mzantsi Jazz Awards. Youduba’s nomination is in the “Best International Jazz Collaboration Album” category.
The jazz artiste who has for a very considerable period been plying her artistic trade away from Nigeria, has made bold strides in the creative fussion of Western jazz music with African fervour.
Confirming the nomination, excited Youduba told The Guardian: “The Mzantsi Jazz Awards nominated me for the ‘Best International Jazz Collaboration Album’ category. The jazz awards is based and managed by South Africans in Soweto. The Mzantsi Jazz Awards celebrate African jazz musicians who have done enriched music that honours the African sounds.”
The jazz vocalist further disclosed that “The Golden Sèkèrè”, her latest album, was her heritage in sounds and culture, blending Nigerian musical elements with the Western jazz sounds. “My current album, ‘The Golden Sèkèrè’, celebrates my heritage in sounds and culture, blending Nigerian musical elements with the Western jazz sounds.
“I am grateful to have been nominated. I am not a South African; I am a Nigerian. That said, the fact that the Mzantsi Jazz Awards is an establishment based in Africa made it even more special because I am an African. Sometimes, it is harder to be appreciated by your own kind; so I am indeed thankful.
“My current album, ‘The Golden Sèkèrè’, was submitted to the Jazz Award organisation for consideration, and that is how it was nominated and that was the big catch”.
The creative and gifted jazz act also expressed her craving to in Nigeria, stating that it would be a great way to connect with her people to give them a taste of her brand and artistry,” she enthused.
The Jazz music exponent also disclosed her wish to work in collaboration with other musicians. She stated that it would be a worthwhile milestone. “Yes, to perform in Nigeria is what I would love to do. It would be a great way to connect with my people and give them a taste of my brand and artistry. My brand is poised and delicately crafted for people looking to experience the finesse in style, presentation, and intellectualism in music.”
On her style of music, Youduba said, “My brand is not for everyone; however, engaging in collaboration with other musicians will be a worthwhile milestone in so far as the partnership showcases my artistry in best light. However, I am open for collaboration with great musicians who bring finesse, superior quality, and elegance to all aspects of their musical prowess and ingenuity.”