Somadina is emerging as one of Nigeria’s freshest talents. Her new EP “Heart of the Heavenly Undeniable” marks a turning point in her sound, and there’s no looking back. Banding together with a group of Nollywood, punk inspired girls – Somadina is calling on women to revel in their power. This is the very core of the artist’s new EP, through which an undeniable energy burgeons and flourishes – which is exactly what makes her an intriguing prospect.

The project traverses effervescent soundscapes, employing the production prowess from the likes of the Grammy-nominated producer Soft Glas. Somadina also joins forces with a repertoire of up-and-coming artists, like neo-soul talent Chi Virgo, the singer-songwriter L0la, and the critically acclaimed highlife band The Cavemen. While the tracks oscillate and meander between different genres and sonic qualities, Somadina’s unparalleled vocal talent is the glue holding each song together.

At the tender age of 22, the young artist is a globetrotter of sorts. Flitting between Nigeria, The UK, and The Netherlands while growing up – Somadina’s musical talent is a testament to her shapeshifting identity, wherein she can express herself through a range of genres with ease. With a UK festival performance at The Great Escape 2023 on the horizon, and another performance at London’s illustrious venue KOKO under her belt – this new EP is fuel to the already flaming fire.

Luckily enough for us, we had the opportunity to sit down and chat with this fresh talent. Encompassing a range of topics like the young artist’s heritage, how she got into playing music, and the collective of collaborators on her EP – we were very much enlightened.

To read our interview with Somadina, head below…

Hi Somadina! Where are we speaking to you from?

Hey Wonderland, right now i’m in Lagos, Nigeria.

What did you have for breakfast this morning?

Lol, I’m about to have some plantain and eggs. My favourite.

Was it always in your destiny to make music? How did you realise that this is your path?

My dad was a huge music head. I played piano as a kid. I feel like music has always been a huge part of my life, and I’ve always been encouraged to embrace it. I don’t remember a time it wasn’t there for me.

Do you remember the first song you ever made? Did you play it for anyone?

I used to have a songbook as a kid and I’d write songs like almost everyday- as much as I could. It was actually chaotic. Not sure which song came first though. One was called “It’s alright, It’s okay” and the other was “Chains can’t hold me back”. I definitely sang them for my dad and siblings and I still remember them both.

Congrats on your new EP “Heart of the Heavenly Undeniable!” It’s an intriguing title. How did that come about?

Making the EP has been quite the journey. The title changed over time. Just like I’ve changed and evolved after each new song. When the journey was concluding, I started realising a lot more about myself. I found a greater purpose in my faith, and the title is really just a reflection of me finally accepting that purpose and seeing the bigger vision.

Can you talk us through the writing process of the EP?

I write based on life experiences, memory, fantasy- at times. The process has never been set in stone for me. I just do what comes naturally. I sing from my soul. Sometimes I freestyle or write in my bedroom. Other times, I’ve collaborated with dope writers in sessions. The EP was made across LA, Nigeria, Ghana and London. Each experience was special and memorable to each song.

It’s your first fully fledged project. Did you find it daunting at all?

Not really. I’m quite chill about it if I’m being honest. I’ve been working on the project for the last 2 years and I believe in the sound a lot. I think many people will resonate with it. It’s fresh and kind of tickles your brain a bit. Especially its bridge between future and nostalgia. I’m sure it’ll find the right home. I’m not worried, I just have to be patient.

There’s a lot of feminine energy on the EP, with features from Chi Virgo and L0la – what’s the significance of female representation to you?

Honestly, I just really love both artists. There are Nigerian artists right now really breaking the status-quo and I think that’s super important and relevant to our sonic history, especially as women. Both features came about so organically. I don’t even think we knew we were working towards music for the project. It all kind of just… happened.

You also worked with The Cavemen, a Highlife/Afrobeats fusion band – you really seem to be honouring your Nigerian heritage. Can you talk a bit about that?

I had such an amazing time making that record at the Cave. Odunsi (The Engine) produced the track and I think that really brought everything together. He’s super meticulous in what he does and you can tell from the production. I’m such a big Cavemen fan too. So having Benjamin sing our native language (igbo) on an unconventional piece of production. It’s the most perfect-twisted record. It really felt like heaven when we made it.

And finally, what’s next for you? Where do you see yourself headed in 2023?

Wherever God takes me. To greater heights.

To listen to Somadina’s new EP “Heart of the Heavenly Undeniable”, and to watch the music video for her new music video “Y I Want U”, head below…