Norwegian jazz musician finds inspiration and friendship in Nigeria

Music transcends borders, as evidenced by the burgeoning friendship between Norwegian jazz musician Audun Aschim and Nigerian singer DOTTi The Deity. Their connection, forged through mutual respect and a shared love for artistry, offers a glimpse into the growing cultural exchange between Africa and Scandinavia.

Aschim first visited Lagos in 2024, expecting a new audience but finding an artist who left a lasting impression. Coming from Norway's more measured pace, he was struck by Nigeria's "electrifying energy" and its "unforgettable" live music scene and people. A key moment was witnessing DOTTi The Deity, a rising star known for blending Afro-soul, neo-folk, jazz, and Yoruba folk music, perform.

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The vibes and the energy are unmatched.

"I was completely mesmerised," Aschim said of DOTTi's performance. "The stage presence, the depth, the musicality, having all those things combined is very rare." He felt it was a powerful reminder that great music stems from honesty and emotion.

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I was completely mesmerised. The stage presence, the depth, the musicality, having all those things combined is very rare.

For DOTTi, the foundation of any partnership, musical or otherwise, is human connection. "The first thing is the human connection; the music comes afterwards," he stated, emphasizing that trust and friendship pave the way for meaningful creative work. Despite their different backgrounds, both artists found common ground in their commitment to authentic storytelling through their music.

While future collaborations are hinted at, the duo prefers to let their projects develop organically, guided by their friendship. Their story underscores a global trend of artists uniting to create music that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.

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The first thing is the human connection; the music comes afterwards.